Gua Sha

Gua Sha in Brooklyn, NY

Gua Sha at Pulse Acupuncture: the ancient art of natural beauty and wellness. Experience radiant skin and rejuvenated energy through this gentle yet powerful healing practice.

What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese healing practice that involves using a smooth-edged tool, such as a jade stone or ceramic spoon, to gently scrape the skin’s surface. This technique is utilized for various purposes, including facialgua sha for face rejuvenation and overall well-being. Marina Doktorman is a licensed practitioner who has been practicing Guasha in New York for many years. Gua Sha at Pulse Acupuncture is incorporated into our range of services, providing patients with access to this ancient healing practice.

How Does Gua Sha Massage Work?

Guasha massage, often referred to as gua sha technique, involves applying light to moderate pressure on the skin’s surface using the smooth-edged tool. The pressure creates friction, resulting in redness known as “sha” that appears on the skin. This temporary redness is an indication of improved blood flow to the treated area, promoting circulation and stimulating the body’s natural healing response.

Gua Sha, an ancient therapeutic technique, has gained popularity as a natural and effective way to address various health concerns. At Pulse Acupuncture, located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Gua Sha is offered as part of our comprehensive holistic approach to health and well-being. With a focus on providing personalized care, Marina Doktorman is dedicated to bringing the benefits of Gua Sha to our patients.

Gua Sha massage is particularly effective for facial rejuvenation when performed as a Gua Sha face massage. This specialized technique helps relax facial muscles, reduce tension, and promote lymphatic drainage, resulting in a more radiant and youthful appearance. The Gua Sha face massage also aids in the absorption of skincare products, maximizing their effectiveness and enhancing overall skin health.

Gua Sha Benefits at Pulse Acupuncture in Brooklyn, NY

At Pulse Acupuncture, the benefits of Gua Sha go beyond its traditional therapeutic uses. When applied to the face, Gua Sha offers numerous advantages, such as enhanced skin tone and texture, reduced puffiness and dark circles, and the smoothing of fine lines and wrinkles. This technique also alleviates facial tension and stress, leaving you with a more relaxed and rejuvenated appearance.

Additionally, facial Gua Sha promotes holistic well-being by providing a sense of calm and relaxation, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. The increased blood flow and lymphatic drainage from this practice aid in detoxification and rejuvenation, contributing to overall health and vitality.

Reasons to Consider Gua Sha at Pulse Acupuncture:

Non-invasive pathway to radiant skin.
Harmonizing the flow of life force, or Qi.
Alleviating chronic pain and muscle tension.
Boosting blood circulation, enhancing skin health.
Natural relief from migraines and headaches.
Activation of the body’s intrinsic healing mechanisms.
Reduction of inflammation and facial puffiness.
Detoxification and enhanced lymphatic flow.
Stress relief and deep relaxation.

Is Gua Sha Safe?

Gua Sha is generally considered safe when performed by trained professionals like the practitioners at Pulse Acupuncture. However, it is essential to be aware of potential Gua Sha side effects. The temporary redness or “sha” that appears on the skin during and after the treatment is a normal response and typically subsides within a few days. Bruising, while rare, can occur if excessive pressure is applied. To ensure the safety and effectiveness of Gua Sha therapy, it is recommended to seek treatment from experienced practitioners.

Gua Sha Facial Massage at Pulse Acupuncture in Williamsburg, Brooklyn

At Pulse Acupuncture, Gua Sha massage is provided by a skilled practitioner, Marina Doktorman L.Ac. With a commitment to the well-being of patients, the team at Pulse Acupuncture offers the best Gua Sha experience tailored to individual needs. The Gua Sha facial massage, in particular, is a specialized treatment that combines the therapeutic effects of Gua Sha with the rejuvenating benefits of facial massage.

Marina Doktorman uses Gua Sha massage as a holistic approach to enhance overall health, well-being, and skin radiance. By combining her knowledge of traditional Chinese healing practices with modern techniques, Marina delivers a revitalizing Gua Sha experience that promotes relaxation, stress relief, and improved facial appearance.

The Gua Sha facial massage offered at Pulse Acupuncture is designed to address individual concerns and provide a customized approach to skin rejuvenation. By understanding each patient’s unique skin type and needs, Marina Doktorman can effectively tailor the Gua Sha technique to achieve the desired results.

As patients undergo Gua Sha massage at Pulse Acupuncture clinic, they can expect to experience the gentle yet powerful effects of this ancient healing practice. The treatment not only enhances facial appearance but also promotes a sense of overall well-being, helping individuals achieve a balanced and rejuvenated state of mind and body.

In conclusion, Gua Sha and acupuncture, both offered at Pulse Acupuncture in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, are powerful ancient healing practices that bring numerous benefits to the mind and body. As a skilled practitioner, Marina Doktorman provides a safe and effective Gua Sha and acupuncture experience that supports overall well-being and facial rejuvenation. The Gua Sha facial massage, in particular, is a specialized treatment that combines the therapeutic effects of Gua Sha with the relaxing benefits of facial massage, leaving patients with a refreshed and radiant appearance. Alongside this, acupuncture treatments further enhance the body’s natural healing processes and energy flow. At Pulse Acupuncture, patients can experience the best of both Gua Sha and acupuncture treatments, delivered with expertise and care by a skilled practioner Marina Doktorman.

Marina Doktorman

About the Practitioner

Marina Doktorman was born in Ukraine and immigrated to United States at the age of 15. She received her B.A. degree in Psychology from Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY in 1997. Marina Doktorman, L.Ac, Dipl.Ac., is a nationally board certified acupuncturist since 2001 and licensed in NY and NJ states. She first worked in NYC in a multi-specialty clinic before establishing her private practice in 2005, in Clifton, NJ.

Other Services

Acupuncture

Cupping

Far-infrared & red light therapy

Chinese Herbs

Aromatherapy

Moxibustion

Tui-Na Massage

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Pulse Acupuncture Prices

Initial Premium Acupuncture (includes evaluation, cupping, onnetsu therapy, massage)

$185

Follow-up Premium Acupuncture (includes cupping, onnetsu therapy, massage)

$165

First visit esoteric acupuncture

$195

Follow-up esoteric acupuncture visit

$175

Package of 5 visits:

$825

$725

Package of 10 visits:

$1,650

$1,250

Package of 20 visits:

$3,300

$2,000

Facial Gua-Sha

$90

Cupping (without acupuncture)

$75

Far-Infrared Onnetsu (FIR) Heat Therapy

$200

Herbal Consultation:

$85

Tui-Na Massage Therapy

$180

Cosmetic Acupuncture

First visit: evaluation, acupuncture, serum, moisturizing cream, gua-sha fascial massage, Celluma Red Light Therapy:

$250

Follow-Up visits:

$200

We accept:

If cancellations are less than 24 hours, we will charge 50 % of our regular fees. If no shows- full appointment charge

Gua Sha Testimonials in Brooklyn

𝗣𝘂𝗹𝘀𝗲 Acupuncture Williamsburg Brooklyn

5.0

Based on 68 reviews

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Charlie Filson-Dineen

13:12 14 Aug 25

My experience with Marina's work has been incredible. After the first few sessions, I immediately noticed a decrease in my endometriosis symptoms. I also struggle with CPTSD and anxiety-- and have felt extremely lighter since seeing her. She is thorough and knows what she is doing. I go twice a week and will eventually start tapering my sessions, but think it is imperative to go often when first starting out. I am addicted to her practice and cannot recommend her more!

Mariela Zapata

16:01 12 Aug 25

I am extremely particular with massages and the massage therapist name Inna at Pulse Acupuncture is absolutely incredible. She is intuitive, skillful, informative and has great bedside manners. The best massage I've experienced in NYC. I highly recommend Inna.

Soloman McDermott

13:52 19 Jun 25

I had been struggling with persistent back pain and frequent migraines that significantly impacted my daily life. After trying various treatments with limited success, I turned to acupuncture and began sessions with Dr. Marina. Her attentive and knowledgeable approach immediately put me at ease. Through her expert care, I experienced a remarkable reduction in both my back pain and migraine frequency. Dr. Marina's dedication and skill have truly made a positive difference in my well-being, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking relief through acupuncture.

Alexis Balkjy

19:20 17 Jun 25

Dr.Marina has helped me multiple times, every time I go to her with a goal to improve my health or whatever aliment I am dealing with, she always helps alleviate it. She’s helped balance my hormones, helped me with a spell of insomnia etc. she really is so amazing and I will continue to go to her because she truly knows what she is doing! If you have any issue, I think dr.marina can help in her practice, she really is amazing and I’m so thankful for her!

Mory Korenblit

21:16 25 Mar 25

Marina is a well-trained and talented therapist. I see her in her Clifton, NJ, office. Parking is always adequate. Several therapy rooms are available; they are comfortable and well-eqipped. I find Marina to be empathetic, a good listener, and a good diagnostician.She draws on her extensive knowledge and experience to tailor-make each treatment to alleviate the ailments presented. I find Marina's acupuncture skills to be effective. I look forward to our sessions and I highly recommend her!

Cydney Engle

17:00 18 Mar 25

Amazing experience! Marina is knowledgeable and professional. She has created a very relaxing vibe in her studio that makes the appointment feel like amazing self care. I’m 40 weeks + 3 days pregnant and felt very comfortable with the table set up and also trusted that she knew what she was doing.

Linda Simmons

18:29 07 Mar 25

Such a soothing environment and Marina is very professional. She explains everything that she is going to do. While I know I need more sessions, I noticed today that I was already able to walk further than before with significantly less pain after the 1st session. What a blessing!!

Francine Fontana

01:47 03 Feb 25

Marina has been treating me in Clifton for about 6 months for chronic pain. I must say she is extremely knowledgeable and has helped to quiet my deep muscle spasms. As an unexpected bonus, the acupuncture had also helped muscle atrophy from a surgery I had over 12 years ago.

Marina is very accommodating, kind, and attentive, and her staff is a pleasure to deal with. I highly recommend Pulse.

Alicia Fernandez

17:07 02 Feb 25

My experience was phenomenal, I had fire cupping done for the first time, an absolute life changing experience. 🙌

Elinor Nimrodi Georgy

21:38 30 Jan 25

Luis Ramirez

01:50 17 Jan 25

The session was great. I’m dealing with sciatica issues and during one session I was able to receive full body acupuncture, cupping , electro pulse therapy and a stress reading. All very helpful for my pain. Highly recommend.

DJ Nicole Otero

20:14 23 Dec 24

I love Marina and her team. I have been struggling with feeling nauseous and fatigue after going through an IVF cycle and going twice a week has been working wonders for me. It’s literally the difference between being able to function and not function in life. I can’t recommend Pulse enough!

Gabrielle Sherman

18:42 24 Nov 24

Emil Hafeez

23:51 19 Nov 24

Christopher Michael

15:21 18 Nov 24

Wonderful place for acupuncture! Highly recommended.

Dan Parr

16:31 15 Nov 24

Exceptional service. Clean and calming rooms. Easy billing/insurance process. Would recommend!

Archie Cooke

21:01 10 Nov 24

Best Accupuncture in Williamsburg! Marina Laryssa are fantastic. Helped relieve pain for my marathon preparation assisting with Plantar fasciitis ITBs and stress. Great experience, very friendly, would highly recommend visiting them.

Mary Connelly

04:13 09 Nov 24

I have been very happy with the services of Pulse Acupuncture, the pain I have has greatly decreased with the Acupuncture.

Brad Sites

19:17 05 Nov 24

Laryssa was fantastic. i can’t ever remember a provider taking the time and attention to my specific issues. highly recommend!

Aliona Kats

23:05 21 Oct 24

Marina is very professional, caring and extremely knowledgable. The office is peaceful and welcoming. I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture for holistic care.

Giovanna

13:59 11 Oct 24

Laryssa is very empathetic and clearly cares about her patients. She’s passionate about her job and wants her patients to feel better. I’ve been seen by Marina a couple of times when Laryssa wasn’t there and I can say the same for her. Overall I highly recommend this acupuncture office.

Carolina Geoghegan

21:32 10 Oct 24

I have been doing acupuncture consistently for 3.5 years, started with Marina almost 3 years ago and also started seeing Larissa this last year.

Acupuncture has truly changed my life and has helped me in ways I didn’t even know were possible.

I started doing acupuncture to balance my hormones after 2 years of unsuccessful fertility treatments. When I started seeing Marina, my periods were starting to be regular and I was dealing with a few different symptoms which we started treating right away (constipation, random headaches, body aches)… in the last 3 years I have not been sick (no flu, have never tested positive for COVID) - Marina even treated me for allergies more than a year ago during an allergy episode in changing seasons.

Also want to mention Larissa as I started seeing her in Marina’s beautiful office and she’s also contributed to my wellness journey. Acupuncture is my favorite wellness practice, I see them regularly and have never felt better. I sometimes just tell them whatever I’m thinking/feeling knowing they will stick some needles in different places of my body and I come out floating and feeling so relaxed.

effie sullivan

15:08 05 Oct 24

Marina is the most qualified acupuncture specialist I've ever worked with. I recommend her highly.

Georgina Rovirosa Trujillo

20:21 20 Sep 24

My symptoms have improved dramatically after just 3 sessions! She’s talented and kind, and uses various techniques that really make me feel like she’s taking a holistic approach to my health and emotional wellbeing. Cannot recommend her enough!

Cindy Ayala

19:19 19 Sep 24

Steven

21:42 10 Sep 24

Jaesung Kim- a welcome addition to the team- simply incredible !

Excellent service- great results- highly recommended ~!

Veena Rao

22:04 09 Sep 24

I've had several sessions with Marina and have had a great experience. I feel relaxed every time a session is over. I recommend trying Pulse out!

victoria hoffman

12:47 13 Aug 24

I visited Marina for back pain and digestive issues. My whole experience was positive. She is patient, empathetic, and very talented and knowledgeable. She used multiple modalities on my body (front and back) to address my concerns and treat the whole body rather than one part. I have been returning each week and I feel so good after.

JERRY JANOWSKI

23:19 25 Jul 24

Marina cares and listens to her patients. Its always about them.

Michael Jones

22:39 19 Jul 24

Dr Marina is very best to find cure for your aches and pains. She tailors treatment with modalities that fit individual's ailments. You will get relief.

Ben Peleg

14:53 01 Jul 24

My partner and I have been seeing Marina for the past year now, and it's been a game changer for my health (anything from back pain to allergies). Since starting treatment all these conditions have become so much more manageable.

Marina is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also very calming and has great bedside manners. If you're looking for a fantastic acupuncturist I can't recommend her enough!!

Aubrey Greco

17:34 30 Jun 24

Marina is so thoughtful and attentive. I have been seeing her regularly for months now and my quality of life is so much better. She’ll listen to what you’re struggling with and give you a really customized session where you walk out the door feeling amazing. Don’t be scared of the needles, it doesn’t hurt!

Robert Craig

22:13 28 Jun 24

Highly professional and knowledgeable technician who explains as she goes so there are no surprises. Knows a variety of techniques to provide some of the best care possible. Highly recommended.

Gordo Santos

21:05 26 Jun 24

Best place to be in new Jersey hands down and yes to recovery. State of the art equipment, advanced training staff awarding with convenient scheduling.

Raymond Muller

14:36 24 Jun 24

Marina and Pulse Acupuncture have given me outstanding wellness care-helping me through pain issues in my left arm and back- giving me relief before and after my knee replacement surgery - Outstanding care and deeply personal individual attraction

Erin

14:22 24 Jun 24

Very happy I went

Anooshka Kumar

13:45 22 Jun 24

Highly recommend Pulse for acupuncture. Very peaceful atmosphere and effective treatment. I am new to treatment and left my sessions incredibly relaxed and recharged. I felt significant relief in the area I was experiencing dull, recurring pain. Will be going regularly now!

Lindsay Andretta

19:27 16 May 24

Nancy Super

23:33 19 Jan 24

Dr. Marina Doktorman is sweet and amazing at what she does. I feel very comfortable with her and her practice is very clean and spa-like. I’ve been coming weekly for a month and noticed changes in my wellbeing. Using acupuncture she’s able to regulate my hormones, unblock my chakras, and overall improve my wellbeing. I love it and will continue weekly or biweekly treatments as long as my insurance is covered. I highly recommend her to anyone who is new to it or interested in acupuncture treatment. It’s very calming and relaxing!

Amanda Thurston

15:41 10 Jan 24

Marina is the best acupuncturist I’ve been to. Expect a full service experience that changes with your needs whether you express them or aren’t sure what you need that day. (Marina is super intuitive and adjusts treatment accordingly!) Highly recommend going here, you’ll feel better mentally and physically as soon as you’re walking out!

Jen Jefferies

15:46 04 Jan 24

Highly recommend! I have been to quite a few acupuncturists over the years and Pulse is by far my favorite and the most attentive. It is a full service of treating my back, front body and cupping (it does not feel rushed). I suffer from chronic neck pain from an old injury and go for postpartum symptoms relief. I always feel better after leaving. The office is beautiful and calming as well.

Dr. Lyudmila Spektor DDS

05:17 01 Jan 24

Marina relieved my back pain after just a couple of visits. I had been suffering for months and her method of treatments proved to be successful. As a doctor myself I can say that she has great bedside manner as well.

Gloria Alp

17:42 23 Dec 23

Great place to be! Amazing experience!

Noemie Audibert

16:16 07 Dec 23

Marina is a great acupuncturist. She is very gentle, professional and caring. I’ve been seeing her on a weekly basis for over a month now to deal with severe fatigue and stress, and in no time the sessions have taken effect. I feel more centered, calm and filled of positive energy. I no longer suffer from insomnia, dizziness or intense anxiety. The practice where she receive appointments in Williamsburg is very nice, clean and comfortable that makes sessions very pleasant and relaxing. I’m very grateful to Marina for her care. Finally, she is very flexible for appointments and can even see a patient in the evening which is very convenient. I highly recommend her.

Kazue Anan

23:22 05 Oct 23

Elena Solntseva

21:26 05 Oct 23

To understand what I'm talking about, you have to try it for yourself.

After 10 minutes of the procedure, you get into a different reality. Marina is knowledgeable, answers all the questions. After the procedure, the skin of the face glows, the body becomes lighter by a couple of pounds. I've been looking for such a procedure and state of mind for a long time.

Elana

02:39 23 Sep 23

Pulse Acupuncture is exactly what I’ve been looking for to treat my migraines! Marina is knowledgeable, professional, asks probing questions and does fire cupping! She also has a very serene and clean office that makes me feel so relaxed and I never feel rushed during my sessions. Marina is truly incredible - her treatments help me mitigate migraines and I highly recommend her for any acupuncture/holistic health needs!! (I’ve tried other practitioners in the area and none have compared to Marina’s experience and professionalism.)

Irina Kozina

13:59 10 Sep 23

I used acupuncture for low back and SI joint pain. I have a chronic condition. After the 1st treatment pain reduced by 75%. I am very happy with the results. I'm coming back. Thank you!

Michael Schimley

16:26 23 Aug 23

I found Marina while I was experiencing horrible lower back pain and her treatments got me back to my normal self quickly. Her office is beautiful, clean and welcoming. I will be going back regularly for routine maintenance and stress relief.

Sophia F

08:41 03 Aug 23

Very happy that my friend recommended Pulse Acupuncture Williamsburg Brooklyn to me! Marina Doktorman is such a professional acupuncturist! It was my first time trying acupuncture and I fell in love with it, I felt younger and lighter after my acupuncture session! I recommend to everyone!!!

Helen Shin

21:24 01 Aug 23

Marina healed me with the best acupuncture in Williamsburg. My shoulders and traps was intensely in pain to the point it gave me a headache but Pulse Acupuncture relieved my pain. Marina's technique is so effective and relaxing. The space is also beautiful and luxurious and you can also get a massage with Maria who's also AMAZING. I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture in Williamsburg 🙂

Ellen Leybengrub

02:24 28 Jul 23

Marina Doktorman is very knowledgeable, skilled, and caring, with many years of experience. Excellent location. Beautiful brand new office.

Felix Lan

21:48 25 Jul 23

Super pleased with my first appointment. Marina is very kind, knowledgeable and professional. Highly recommend.

Amanda Pagul

23:30 17 Jul 23

Evgenia Vlasova

23:32 29 Jun 23

When I first came to Marina, I felt constant pressure in my lower back, tension in my upper back and lack of energy. During the first session I could literally feel something shifting inside in those areas she was working on. Her touch was so gentle that I didn’t even feel the needles go in. The time stopped, I was relaxed, calm and peaceful. Besides acupuncture I had some cupping done as well. The cups relieved a great deal of pressure from my upper and lower back. After the session I immediately felt the effect. Have my next session scheduled for next week. I would definitely recommend Marina to those seeking holistic ways to deal with muscle, spine, and pain issues. She is a miracle worker!

Taisiya Pokrovskaya

21:00 13 Jun 23

I felt relief after the first session with Marina Doktorman. Marina is a caring practitioner that establishes a connection with her clients and always ensures a comfortable environment. After doing acupuncture, heat therapy, and cupping with her, I felt instant relief and relaxation. In addition, Marina’s treatment helped me feel relief from neck and back pain, as well as to feel grounded and connected to my body. I would highly recommend Marina to anyone.

Alex livson

18:49 06 Jun 23

Excellent service, very knowledgeable and professional. They helped me a lot. Strongly recommend. Went to other offices, but this one is truly the best!

maya grabler

23:28 04 Jun 23

I’m getting acupuncture for allergies and impressed by the results! I’m no longer congested, no teary eyes. It’s just incredible! Im used to getting allergy shots before. No more. It’s unbelievable! The treatment is relaxing and very effective! My headaches are gone too! I really recommend Marina Doktorman at Pulse Acupuncture!

Maria Yam

21:15 25 Apr 23

I was treated by Marina at Williamsburg location. After I sprained my ankle I decided to try acupuncture to help with bruising, swelling, and pain. The results were fascinating! The bruising and swelling almost went away!!! I am very very satisfied with the treatment! Marina is very knowledgeable, experienced and has an amazing energy! Will definitely be back!!

Leon Rav

16:25 15 Apr 23

I’ve had great acupuncture experience at Pulse Acupuncture. Marina was able to fix my neck strain in just one treatment. It was not painful and actually very relaxing. Cupping and massage followed after acupuncture session. This was the most relief I’ve had in a long time. Loved the healing vibe of this beautiful studio.

The -W-omen

01:06 07 Apr 23

I recently visited Pulse Acupuncture to seek relief for my lower back pain, and I am thrilled with the results I achieved through Marina's skillful treatment. After just a few sessions, I noticed a significant improvement in my pain levels and overall mobility.

I am beyond grateful to Marina, because after trying so many things, I almost lost hope. highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone seeking relief from pain or other health concerns.

Mark Plesser

00:58 07 Apr 23

I have been visiting Pulse Acupuncture for several months now, and I have consistently received excellent service from Marina. Her expertise in acupuncture and holistic healing is unmatched, and she always takes the time to listen to my concerns and provide personalized recommendations.

The acupuncture sessions themselves are incredibly relaxing and therapeutic. Marina's gentle touch and precise needle placement always leave me feeling calm and rejuvenated. She also incorporates other techniques, such as cupping, which have been very beneficial for my overall health and wellbeing.

In addition to her skill as an acupuncturist, Marina is also a wonderful person to work with. She is warm, friendly, and genuinely cares about her clients' wellbeing. I always leave our sessions feeling refreshed and uplifted, both physically and mentally.

Overall, I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone looking for high-quality acupuncture and personalized care. Thank you, Marina, for your exceptional service and dedication to helping others achieve optimal health!