A gua sha can massage, ease pain, reduce swelling, and drain your sinuses, but just like your towels and makeup brushes, gua sha tools can harbor dirt and bacteria. Improper cleaning can put you at risk for skin infections, especially if you have a weak immune system or underlying conditions.
Trillions of bacteria, yeast, and other microorganisms live on human skin, and if you don't clean your gua sha regularly, you risk spreading bacteria from one place to another, leading to more acne, eczema, and other skin disorders. Gua sha comes in direct contact with your skin, so it can contaminate your skin with microbes, harbor dead skin cells, dirt, and mold.
It is best to clean your gua sha with soapy water every three to four days, wipe it with a soft, damp cloth, and store it in the refrigerator to dry. Cleaning your gua sha after each use is also good, and doing so thoroughly will increase its lifespan and prevent the spread of acne-causing bacteria and other germs.