Interview with Amanda Schuler

1. For someone new to it — what is lymphatic drainage for the face, and what are its main benefits?

Lymphatic drainage is a gentle technique that helps move fluid through the lymphatic system, reducing puffiness and encouraging circulation. On the face, it creates a sculpted, lifted look while also supporting skin clarity. The practice feels grounding and calming, making it as beneficial for your mind as it is for your skin. Facial gua sha can support lymphatic drainage, but lymphatic drainage can be achieved in other ways, including gentle massage and tapping techniques, and soft brushes and tools. 

2. How should beginners start gua sha at home, and what’s the most important technique tip to follow?

Gua sha is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where stroking various tools along the skin's surface is done to stimulate qi (energy) flow, improve circulation, and support the body’s natural healing. For your facial gua sha practice, is it important to start simple and be gentle! Give yourself 1-3 minutes from start to finish. Apply a generous amount of our 01 Universal Facial Oil, which adds the perfect amount of slip for facial massage. Use your gua sha tool in slow, sweeping motions, while always moving outward and slightly upward. Always start with the neck to gently relax and open up the fascia and allow fresh circulation to reach the face, moving upwards, doing 5-10 strokes per location including jawline, cheekbone, top of the eye and forehead. You can focus the tool along 11 lines, forehead lines, etc as well to “plump” those areas. The most important tip is to keep the tool flat to your skin and maintain light pressure, Don't overdo it, especially at the beginning! 

3. How often should someone do gua sha to see visible results?

Consistency matters more than intensity. Just a few minutes, two to four times a week, is enough to notice reduced puffiness, promoting a more sculpted, toned appearance. Over time, the results build gradually and naturally.

4. Which Ember products pair best with lymphatic drainage, and why?

One day when using my favourite Gua sha, the thought hit me, “What if skincare product was ALSO the tool?” And that’s when Our Solid Serum Bar was created. The Serum Bar is truly a unique product on the market because it is Vitamin C skincare ingredients in the shape of a sculpting gua sha tool. You literally hydrate your skin as you sculpt! They’re also waterless, which gives you more concentrated, sustainable, and effective ingredients that last longer. 

5. How does Ember’s philosophy of minimalism and ritual connect to this self-care practice?

We believe beauty should feel simple, grounding, and nurturing. Our Solid Serum Bar embodies that philosophy. It is one tool that does everything, and with a few intentional strokes, it can transform the skin.