What is gua sha and cupping facial massage?
Gua sha is a smooth-tool massage technique: controlled strokes along the face and neck help release tension, support circulation, and encourage a more defined, less puffy look. Facial cupping uses small suction cups on the skin — gentle vacuum pressure can increase blood flow to the area and complement the massage work without aggressive pulling.
At Skin and Beyond Spa in Gold Coast, Chicago, you book the Guasha, Cupping and Lymphatic Drainage Massage duo: one 45-minute visit that combines tool work with rhythmic lymphatic drainage massage on the face and neck. It is massage-forward — not a full customized facial with extractions and masks.
Part of our facial massage menu in Chicago. Flat prices for every massage SKU are on the price list.
Who it’s for — and when to book something else
Book this visit if you want gua sha or cupping on the face, notice puffiness along the jaw or under the eyes, or you are searching for gua sha facial massage in Chicago, gua sha massage near me, or facial cupping with an experienced therapist in the studio. The duo adds tools plus lymphatic-style massage in one appointment.
Choose lymphatic drainage massage when you prefer hands-only rhythmic drainage for face, neck, shoulders, and décolleté in a shorter, lower-priced visit — no cups or gua sha tools.
Choose Japanese face sculpting massage when jaw tension and lift-and-release sculpting strokes are the main goal — no cupping or gua sha focus.
Choose a full facial in Chicago when you need cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, or a 60–90 minute skin protocol. This booking is tool-and-massage focused.
Reschedule if you have an active cold sore, open wounds, sunburn, or a skin infection in the treatment area. Tell us about recent fillers, facial surgery, or strong reactions so we can adjust suction, stroke pressure, and timing.
What happens during the treatment
Typical flow for the 45-minute gua sha and cupping duo.
- Consultation. We note puffiness, tension areas, and any spots to treat gently or skip — especially around broken capillaries or active breakouts.
- Cleanse and prep. Comfortable cleansing and slip so cups and gua sha glide without dragging skin.
- Tool sequence. Facial cupping and gua sha strokes where appropriate — suction and scraping are light and controlled for the face, not body-style intensity.
- Lymphatic drainage massage. Rhythmic massage on the face and neck to support lymph movement and release facial tension after the tool work.
- Finish. Soothing product and simple aftercare — you leave relaxed; mild temporary marks from cupping are possible but usually fade quickly.
Many guests describe a refreshed, less heavy look along the jaw and cheeks after the session. Results vary; this is a cosmetic spa treatment, not medical lymphatic therapy.
What to expect on your visit
Assessment
We look at where you hold fluid or tension that day — under eyes, along the jaw, or across the neck — and match cupping strength and gua sha pressure to your skin’s comfort.
Treatment
About 45 minutes on the table. Cupping and gua sha are integrated with lymphatic-style massage so the visit feels cohesive, not like three disconnected add-ons.
Aftercare
Drink water, avoid harsh scrubs or at-home cupping gadgets the same day, and skip heavy makeup if skin is pink. Tell us at checkout if you plan another facial or peel soon so we can space treatments safely.
Before you come
Arrive with a clean face when you can. Pause aggressive at-home gua sha or facial cupping for a day or two before your visit if your skin is easily irritated. Mention blood thinners, rosacea, or a history of bruising when you book.
New to the techniques? Read how cupping and gua sha fit into facial lymphatic care — then book this named duo when you want hands-on treatment in the studio.
FAQ
- How much does gua sha facial massage cost in Chicago?
- $130 for 45 minutes for Guasha, Cupping and Lymphatic Drainage Massage duo at Skin and Beyond Spa, Gold Coast. Book the named service on our massage price list — not a generic salon link.
- Does facial cupping or gua sha hurt?
- It should feel firm but tolerable — not sharp pain. Cupping suction and gua sha strokes are adjusted for facial skin. Speak up anytime pressure feels too strong.
- How is this different from lymphatic drainage massage alone?
- Lymphatic drainage massage is hands-only and shorter. This duo adds gua sha and cupping tools plus lymphatic-style massage in one 45-minute booking.
- Will cupping leave marks on my face?
- Facial cupping uses light suction. Temporary redness or small circles can happen but usually fade within hours to a day — unlike aggressive body cupping marks.
- How often should I book gua sha or cupping?
- Many guests come every three to four weeks for maintenance, or once before an event. We can suggest a rhythm after your first visit based on how your skin responds.
- Where are you located?
- 21 W Elm St, 2nd floor, Gold Coast, Chicago, IL 60610. Call +1 312 404 7262 or book online.
What clients say
5.0 ★★★★★ 64 Google reviews
I felt relaxed, comfortable, and left with GLOWING skin. I didn’t experience any negative reactions in the days after.
She customizes my treatment based on what my skin needs at the time and my skin is always glowing when I leave.
I’ve had facials done all over the world and Natalia is one of the best! Very knowledgeable and precise. Skin was so calm, clean and glowing post facial.
Visit us in Gold Coast
Skin and Beyond Spa
21 W Elm St, 2nd floor
Gold Coast, Chicago, IL 60610
Serving Gold Coast, Magnificent Mile, River North, Streeterville, and Old Town.
Book gua sha and cupping massageNot sure which facial massage fits?
We will help you choose between lymphatic drainage, gua sha and cupping, or Japanese sculpting before you book.
Contact us

