Kobido vs Gua Sha: Which Face Massage Should You Choose?
By the POINT · FACE expert therapists · Uluwatu, Bali
The short answer
Choose Kobido if you want a lifting, toning effect: it uses fast, rhythmic lifting motions and percussive tapping and is known as the "natural facelift". Choose Gua Sha if you want relaxation and gentle drainage: smooth stones glide over the face to release tension and depuff. For deep jaw tension, add a Buccal Massage.
Key takeaways
- Kobido = lifting, toning, "natural facelift". 30 or 60 min.
- Gua Sha = relaxing, depuffing, tension release. 30 min.
- Buccal = deep jaw & cheek muscles, from inside the mouth. 15 min.
- All three are non-exfoliating — safe to combine with facials.
Kobido: the Japanese natural facelift
Kobido is a centuries-old Japanese facial massage. Its techniques are fast and precise: deep lifting strokes, lymphatic drainage and percussive tapping that stimulate circulation and tone the facial muscles. At POINT · FACE we perform it with our collagen cream. Kobido Massage: 30 min IDR 500,000 · 60 min IDR 850,000.
Gua Sha: the relaxing, depuffing ritual
Gua Sha comes from traditional Chinese medicine. A smooth stone is glided along the face and neck with oil to release muscle tension and encourage lymphatic drainage. We use centella oil to soothe the skin. Gua Sha Massage: 30 min IDR 350,000.
Comparison
| Kobido | Gua Sha | |
|---|---|---|
| Main goal | Lift & tone | Relax & depuff |
| Rhythm | Fast, dynamic | Slow, flowing |
| Tools | Hands | Gua Sha stones |
| Best for | Loss of firmness, tired features | Stress, puffiness, tension |
The third option: buccal massage
If tension sits deep in your jaw — clenching, grinding — the Buccal Massage works the muscles from inside the mouth. Add it to either massage.
Our recommendation
Before an event: Kobido 60 min + Buccal. After a stressful week: Gua Sha or the Relaxation Ritual. Living in Bali: a 3-session massage package at 20% off.
FAQ
Can I do Gua Sha at home?
Yes, gently and with oil, always upward and outward. A professional session goes deeper and adds drainage techniques.
