råvi x rilaks gua sha facial

Interview: Catherine (råvi organics) and Lisa (rilaks)

To bring our Swiss-made organic face oil and handcrafted gua sha tool into a more professional and holistic context, I reached out to Lisa, the owner of the natural cosmetics studio rilaks in Zürich. I envisioned creating a signature råvi gua sha facial treatment that would seamlessly combine my background in Traditional Chinese Medicine and the råvi philosophy with Lisa’s deep expertise in natural cosmetic care. Lisa immediately embraced the idea, and with that, our collaboration began.

Catherine: How did your journey into natural cosmetics begin?
Lisa: In fact, I used to have very little interest in creams or beauty in general. But in 2012, I had a facial treatment after which my skin felt more recovered, soft, and nourished than ever before. That experience sparked something in me — I wanted to understand how skincare works and what our skin truly needs. I began questioning ingredients, mixing my first own oils, and discovering how beneficial natural formulations can be for both skin and overall well-being. That moment marked the beginning of a path that eventually led me to train as a natural cosmetician — and ultimately to founding rilaks.

Catherine: What fascinates you about your work as a natural cosmetician today?
Lisa: I am fascinated by the human being as a whole. A treatment at rilaks is more than the application of products — it can relax, de-stress, nourish, bring clarity, and positively influence one’s sense of embodiment. Natural skincare, mindful touch, and delicate textures and scents turn skin care into a deeply soothing experience. I want to offer a place where people can arrive, let go, and feel truly cared for.

Catherine: How would you describe your treatment style?
Lisa: I work intuitively, attentively, and always individually. At rilaks, there are no standardized routines — I observe, tune in, and adapt every technique to the specific skin and the person behind it. For me, a treatment is not just skincare; it is shared time, presence, and genuine attentiveness.

Catherine: What role do holism or rituals play in your treatments?
Lisa: A significant one. When someone is able to let go, their facial muscles often relax as well — allowing the skin to return to its natural calm and radiance. My studio is meant to be a place where every client feels held and supported, no matter how they arrive — and leaves feeling happier, more relaxed, seen, and understood.

Catherine: How did the råvi gua sha facial come to life — and what makes it special?
Lisa: Catherine reached out to me because she wanted her clients to experience her products within a professional gua sha context. From this, the idea of creating a signature facial emerged — one with a strong focus on manual work, intentional slowing down, and natural effectiveness.

Catherine: Which techniques or elements characterize the råvi gua sha facial?
Lisa: The råvi facial features extensive gua sha techniques, selected acupressure points, a nourishing mask, and a head massage — because the facial muscles extend far beyond the hairline. It’s less about using many products and more about precise touch, anatomical understanding, and deep relaxation. It’s especially beneficial for those with tired or sensitive skin, noticeable facial tension, or a desire for a genuine moment of rest.

Catherine: What do you value about råvi — professionally and personally?
Lisa: The open, respectful exchange. Catherine works with care, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for quality, formulation, and craftsmanship. råvi intentionally creates only a few, but thoughtfully developed products — refined, high-quality, and clear. This intentional approach aligns very well with my work at rilaks.

Catherine: Do you use råvi products privately as well?
Lisa: Yes — I often use the facial oil for short, targeted gua sha sessions at home, especially on the jaw, cheeks, or forehead. The wooden tool feels warm, light, and intuitive, which is why I always keep it within reach.