How Are Facial Massages Important For Your Skin?

Facial massage and its origin.

Facial massage is a process that involves massaging the face using different strokes and techniques to provide benefits for the skin and facial muscles. Facial massage has been practiced for centuries and has ancient roots dating back to ancient Chinese, Egyptian and Ayurvedic traditions. Massaging certain pressure points on the face was believed to improve energy flow, blood circulation and overall health.

Techniques like acupressure facials were part of traditional Chinese medicine and aimed to align the flow of chi or energy in the body. Indian Ayurvedic medicine also incorporated facial massage.

Facial massages became popular in European spas and Turkish baths in the 19th century. Europeans adopted manual techniques from traditions like Chinese medicine into their spa routines.

In the 20th century, facialists and massage therapists developed modern and specialized techniques for facial massage.

Facial Massages today.

Facial massages have become an increasingly popular skin care treatment over the past few years. While many view facial massages as a luxurious spa treatment, they actually provide many benefits for your skin's health and appearance.

Fun fact:

Your face contains over 50 muscles that allows you to make expressions.

I'm sure you're thinking "how are they more than 50?" We learn everyday, don't we?

As we age, these muscles lose elasticity and can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Facial massages help stimulate blood flow to feed oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells in your face. This brings a healthy flush to your complexion. 

Increased blood circulation also helps drain lymphatic fluid that causes under-eye bags and facial puffiness. Massaging the skin helps drain this excess fluid, resulting in a slimming effect on the face. Facial massages can also firm and tone the facial muscles to provide a natural lift. 

Here are some key benefits of facial massages:

- Improves blood circulation for a healthy glow

- Releases facial tension 

- Reduces wrinkles and fine lines

- Firms facial muscles

- De-puffs eyes and facial tissue 

- Promotes lymphatic drainage 

- Boosts absorption of skin care products

- Creates a more sculpted facial appearance

Do I still need facial massages when I already have a skincare product that works?

Yes! Yes, you do. While you may have found your miracle product and a perfect skincare routine, facial massage offers complementary benefits that work from the outside in to create more beautiful, youthful looking skin. The massage technique also allows you to customize treatments based on your particular skin's needs each day. Adding massage to your regimen enhances the effects of your skincare products.

Don't we all want to have that glass like skin?

There are a few reasons why facial massages are still beneficial even if you already have an effective skincare routine and product that works:

• Massage helps work products deeper into the skin. The increased blood circulation delivers more nutrients from skincare products to the skin cells.
• Facial massages can help drain excess fluids and lymph, decreasing facial puffiness and under-eye bags. Skincare alone cannot decompress tissues.
•  A light massage releases tension in the facial muscles that skincare does not address. This can help relax wrinkle-causing facial expressions.
•  Massage techniques like petrissage and drainage can contour facial muscles. Skincare does not provide this toning effect.
• Massage boosts blood flow to the skin's surface, giving a healthy glow that skincare cannot achieve alone.
• Massage can increase collagen production and cell turnover for anti-aging effects beyond skincare.
• Facial massage provides relaxation benefits that enhance the spa-like experience of a skincare routine.

But, is it really important?

While you're probably rethinking your life choices right now and reconsidering this skincare of a thing, relax! Don't give up. I know it's a lot of things and you're probably thinking "how many faces do i even have?" But don't you want to rock that fifty-fine look?

Think of the skincare journey as an investment in your future self – picture yourself at 60, looking 35. Forever young, right?

I know it's your dream, so, pretty please, consider adding facials into your routine. It might just be the secret sauce you need! 

I seriously do not have the money.

Technically, getting facials done professionally by an esthetician is beneficial because they are extensively trained in facial massage techniques, they can assess your skin and create customized facials using products to target your skin concerns like acne, aging, dryness, etc. Visiting an experienced esthetician can take your skincare to the next level AND you can as well.

How?

DIY solution. You can get your facials done in your house, by yourself without going all the way to a beauty salon.

Now, before you go and pull your skin like bread, it’s important to always use gentle, upward motions. Dragging or pulling the skin can damage collagen and elasticity. Here's a simple procedure on how to get your facials done at home:

• Cleanse and prep your skin first - Remove any makeup and wash your face before massaging to allow your products to absorb better.
• Warm your hands - Rub your hands together briskly before putting them on your face to warm them up and avoid startling your facial muscles. 
• Use a facial oil or cream - Apply a facial oil, balm or moisturizing cream to lubricate your skin for smooth gliding motions.
• Start with light pressure - Begin with very gentle pressure, especially around the eye area and neck. Gradually increase pressure as the muscles relax.
• Focus on movement - Glide or slide your fingers and palms over the skin using outward and upward motions. Avoid pulling or dragging the skin.
• Spend more time on problem areas - Slowly massage and knead areas of tension, wrinkles, puffiness or congestion.
• Drain downwards - Use downward strokes on the lymph nodes of the neck to drain fluids.
• Finish by tapping - Conclude the massage by gently tapping all over the face to invigorate skin and muscles. 
• Be consistent - Aim for at least 5-10 minutes daily for best results. You can do it while relaxing or netflix and chilling.
• Clean up after - Wash your hands after massaging and avoid touching your face with any remaining oils on your hands.

Professional facials have added benefits you may miss out on with DIY, but if you are looking to save money while still caring for your skin, DIY facials are a great, cost-effective option. The important thing is being consistent with the routine, even if you're using affordable ingredients. Following a relaxing massage routine like this 1-2 times a day will provide noticeable benefits for your facial skin and muscles. 

In conclusion,

Try incorporating facial massages into your regular beauty routine. They are easy to perform yourself at home using just your hands. Or treat yourself to regular facials with a massage to fully relax while your esthetician sculpts your face. Set aside a few minutes each day to massage your way to a more youthful skin. Your face will thank you!