Whether you’re indulging in a spa treatment or it’s part of your home skincare ritual, facial massage can be an intensely relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
However, there’s much more to it than relaxation. The physical and mental benefits of facial massage are manifold.
No one understands this better than award-winning skin and dermal therapist, Isabella Loneragan who has long championed the therapeutic power of facial massage. Holding a Bachelor of Behavioural Health Science and Psychology and a Diploma in Beauty Therapy and Dermal Science, Loneragan is not only academically inclined but also possesses over 15 years of hands-on experience in the world of dermatology and cosmeceuticals.
She shared her insights with Beauty Space on the benefits of facial massage.
The Basics of Face Massage
@basecamp_beauty, @stephflockhart
Before we jump into the benefits, we’ll delve into the foundational aspects of facial massage, exploring the various techniques available.
From the sculpting prowess of Facial Sculpting to the detoxifying effects of Lymphatic Drainage, discover what’s unique about each method. Additionally, discover the tools you can incorporate to enhance your facial massage experience.
Different Facial Massage Techniques
Facial Sculpting:
As described by Loneragan, this method “involves a series of vigorous and uplifting massage moves starting at the clavicle, moving all the way up the face, and ending at the hairline.”
By directing the facial muscles in unfamiliar trajectories, this style of massage not only sculpts the face but also aids in releasing emotional tension pent up in the muscles. Emphasising the buccal or intraoral aspect of the massage, she explains how it aids in tension release and offers a distinct sculpt to the facial muscles. The result? A depuffed, lifted face, reduced cortisol levels, and sheer relaxation.
Having trained under Russian massage expert Yakov Gershkovich in Paris in 2019, Loneragan mastered the buccal technique, a favourite of celebrities like Meghan Markle and Kate Moss.
Bringing her newfound knowledge to Australia, she curated The Intrinsic Facial, a signature treatment that marries the sculpting facial massage with buccal techniques. This 75-minute treatment provides an exceptional ‘lifted’ appearance — without stepping foot in a surgeon’s office. Learn more about this treatment.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage:
Just as the body has its lymphatic system, so does the face. This massage technique focuses on the lymph nodes, aiding in the removal of toxins from the facial tissues. Regularly stimulating lymphatic drainage can reduce puffiness, sculpt the jawline, and improve skin firmness and plumpness.
Accupressure Massage:
To put it simply, this is acupuncture without the needles. By manually applying pressure to specific points on the face, you can alleviate tension, boost circulation, and encourage skin cell regeneration. This method involves using your fingers or a reflexology pen to gently massage pressure points on the face.
Massage Tools
Ultimately, you don’t need to splurge on a fancy tool — you can give yourself an effective massage using your hands and a hydrating serum or face oil. However, these are some of the most common facial massaging tools to elevate your ritual:
Related Read: From Cleansing to Contouring: Discover the Best Skincare Tools for Your Beauty Arsenal
Facial Massage Roller: A traditional tool, commonly made of Jade stone that cools the skin, reduces puffiness, and enhances product absorption. The gentle rolling motion also promotes lymphatic drainage.
Gua Sha: This flat, stone tool is designed for scraping and lifting motions, offering deep tissue massage benefits. It aids in circulation, releases tension, and helps with product absorption.
Electronic Skin Massaging Device: These devices often combine vibrational technology with warmth or coolness settings, enhancing the benefits of a manual massage and offering deeper penetration of skincare products.
6 Benefits of Face Massage
The holistic impact of facial massage is undeniable.
Loneragan explains: “The response to facial massage isn’t just limited to the face and how it appears. It has an impact on the nervous system, the circulatory system, the breathing rhythm, and hormone levels as it reduces cortisol production. Holistically it is an incredible anti-aging tool – but more importantly, it’s an incredible tool to improve mental and physical health.”
1. Promotes blood circulation & stimulates muscles
Facial massage is pivotal for skin health and vitality. Loneragan says: “Face massage stimulates blood flow and aids circulation, giving a glowing complexion and helping your skin to naturally cleanse.”
2. Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
It can also be an effective way to tackle signs of ageing. “Smoothing of fine lines and wrinkles is also a benefit of face massage.” She added: “When coupled with the right serums—Vitamin A, B, and C—massage can stimulate collagen.”
Noting these serums are “clinically proven to stimulate the fibroblast, the collagen and elastin production powerhouse.” This dual action revitalises skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
3. Facial Toning and Sliming
It offers more than just relaxation—it’s a secret weapon for contouring and refinement. Loneragan underscores this, asserting, “Slimming the face is another incredible benefit of facial massage.”
By strategically moving stagnant lymph fluid away from the face’s central areas towards the lymph nodes for elimination, facial massage effectively tones and slims the face, providing a more defined and sculpted appearance.
4. Increases Absorption of Skincare Products
“Massaging your products properly and with intention increases their absorption which means they work better,” she added. Through facial massage, the skin becomes more receptive, allowing serums and creams to penetrate deeper. This enhanced absorption amplifies the benefits of your skincare routine, ensuring every drop counts.
5. Reduced Tension and Stress
Facial massages can be as beneficial for the mind as they are for the face.
By focusing on specific pressure points and utilising deliberate strokes, facial massage aids in releasing tension stored in the facial muscles. This not only alleviates physical strain but also induces a state of relaxation, mitigating stress.
6. Enhanced Feelings of Rejuvenation and Wellbeing
The combination of physical relaxation and mental tranquillity often leaves individuals feeling rejuvenated and in a state of well-being. Many consider it a skincare ritual and an important step when it comes to self-care and improving your overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you massage your face?
“Daily at home!” Loneragan emphasises. While applying serums and moisturisers, she believes the old method of merely patting them on is a missed opportunity.
Should I massage my face after fillers?
Absolutely. “It actually helps the filler to settle properly in the face,” says Loneragan, stressing the need for gentle massaging post-fillers.
What products should I use for face massage?
You will want a product that allows you to easily glide over your face. A dry face can create friction and pull and stretch the skin. You will therefore need a product that will help lubricate the skin like a cleansing balm, hydrating face serum or face oil or gel. Ultimately, you don’t want something that dries or absorbs into the skin too quickly.
A Final Note
Facial massage isn’t just a skincare fad; it’s a comprehensive approach to skin health and mental well-being. With experts like Isabella Loneragan demonstrating the effectiveness of facial massage in her beauty treatments, more beauty lovers will look to incorporate it into their everyday skincare routine.
So, the next time you apply your serum or cream, remember Loneragan’s words and seize the opportunity for a mini face massage. Your skin and soul will thank you!
You can learn more about Isabella and her signature facials here.
Recommended Reading
6 Benefits Of Facial Massage, From an Award-Winning Skin Therapist
6 benefits of facial massage for skin and mind, according to Award-Winning Skin Therapist Isabella Loneragan. Plus, the basics of face massage from techniques to tools.