In short
- Gua Sha is manual: the practitioner glides a smooth-edged tool over the skin with a facial oil.
- Microcurrent uses a device that sends a very low-level electrical current through the skin.
- At RRYL both are 60-minute facials with Bouchra, each listed at $250.
- “Face sculpting” is a label used for several different treatments, not one technique.
- Neither is medical treatment, and RRYL does not promise specific or lasting results from either.
What happens in a Gua Sha facial
Gua Sha is a technique with roots in traditional Chinese practice. In a facial, the practitioner draws a smooth, flat-edged tool across the skin of the face and neck, over a facial oil, in slow repeated strokes. It is hands-on and unhurried.
At RRYL, the Gua Sha Facial is 60 minutes with Bouchra and is entirely on the outside of the face:
- A short conversation about your skin and anything that could affect treatment.
- Cleansing.
- Gua Sha work over the face and neck.
- A calm finish, with time for questions.
What happens in a microcurrent facial
Microcurrent facials use a professional device, usually applied with handheld probes, that passes a very low-level electrical current through the skin.
At RRYL, the Microcurrent Facial is 60 minutes with Bouchra, listed at $250.
The differences at a glance
| Gua Sha Facial | Microcurrent Facial | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Manual strokes with a smooth tool and facial oil | A device passes a very low-level current through the skin |
| Length at RRYL | 60 min | 60 min |
| Listed price | $250 | $250 |
| Calendar label | RRYL Gua Sha Facial | RRYL Microcurrent Facial |
Lengths are the booked appointment time. In the calendar, choose the facial by name; nothing is preselected.
Is “face sculpting” the same as Gua Sha?
Not exactly. “Sculpting” is a marketing word applied to several techniques, including Gua Sha, microcurrent and buccal massage. They are different treatments with different sensations. When you compare studios, compare what actually happens in the appointment rather than the name.
If you are interested in work inside the mouth as well, RRYL’s two buccal facials are explained in Buccal massage: what to expect before you book.
At-home tools: stones and microcurrent devices
Gua Sha stones and handheld microcurrent devices are both sold for home use, and they are often compared.
- A home Gua Sha stone is a simple tool. Use light pressure, a slip product such as a facial oil, and clean the tool after use.
- A home microcurrent device is an electrical product. Read and follow its instructions and safety warnings before use; they list who should not use it.
- Neither replaces a professional appointment, and neither is necessary for good skin. If you would like guidance on using a tool at home, ask Bouchra at your appointment.
Which should you choose?
There is no single right answer. Choose by the experience you want:
- You want hands-on, relaxing facial work with no device: the Gua Sha Facial.
- You are curious about a device-based facial: the Microcurrent Facial.
- You want Gua Sha together with work inside the mouth: the 90-minute Gua Sha Buccal Facial.
- You are unsure: book the facial that appeals to you and discuss it with Bouchra at the start, or get in touch before booking.
Before you book
- Mention any recent injectables, peels, laser or other cosmetic procedures when you book.
- Tell Bouchra about any health conditions, implanted medical devices, pregnancy, allergies or prescription skincare, so she can advise whether a treatment is suitable for you.
- Makeup is fine; your skin is cleansed at the start.
Frequently asked questions
Which one works faster?
RRYL does not promise specific results from either treatment. How skin looks after any facial, and for how long, varies from person to person.
Can I have both?
Yes. They are separate appointments. Ask Bouchra how to space them for your skin.
Is this medical treatment?
No. RRYL Skin Spa provides cosmetic skincare services and does not diagnose or treat medical conditions. Individual results vary.