There are several wonderful benefits of getting a facial massage done whether at home or at a professional spa. Such a massage not only leaves your face feeling soft, smooth and supple but also does a world of good to your metal state by uplifting the spirit and rejuvenating your senses. The basic purpose of a facial massage is to cleanse, exfoliate and nourish the skin. By opening up the pores on the surface the massage helps the skin cells to breathe easy and facilitates regeneration of the dead skin cells. Having a regular massage therapy for the face keeps it moisturized and glowing. There are various types of facial massage which can be undertaken depending on your skin type and requirements. However all massages for the face are aimed at providing you with a fresh and energized look that exudes a vibrant and energetic personality.
Constituents of a Facial Massage
There are certain basic steps involved in the process of getting a thorough facial massage. These steps ensure that all aspects of the face are attended to in the massage therapy. A brief description of the primary steps constituting the process is enlisted below.
- Cleansing: This is the starting point of any face treatment. It is essential to first clean the surface of accumulated dirt, grime, body oil and residual cosmetics so that the pores are de clogged. Using cotton pads and sponges along with creams and lotions suitable to the particular skin type, the face is thoroughly cleaned and prepared for subsequent treatment.
- Analysis: Before proceeding any further, the massage therapy specialist will need to have a closer look to determine the exact kind of skin in order to select the most suitable products for use. Most skin types can be categorized as dry, normal, combination, sensitive or mature.
- Exfoliation: This step is vital for eliminating the accumulated dead cells on the surface that are a major hindrance to the regeneration of new skin cells. This can be undertaken mechanically or with the use of a chemical peeling mask.
- Extraction: The removal of the blackheads and whiteheads is the most painful process in the entire facial massage and can also result in skin damage on sensitive types if not carried out with care.
- Massage: This part of the massage therapy is the most enjoyable one as it involves long strokes intended to stimulate facial blood circulation and workout of the face muscles.
- Masking: This is usually the end of the massage and involves application of a organic or chemical mask over the face in order to provide effective nourishment of essential vitamins to the skin through an extended period. The facial massage can be ended with application of toners or protection creams before you move out.
Health Benefits of the Facial Massage
The multiple benefits of having a regular facial massage are the primary reasons for this procedure gaining immense popularity among people of all ages and backgrounds. The gains from such a massage therapy are not limited to the facial skin alone and also extend to the body’s inner functioning and the psychological state of the person.
Gains for the Facial Skin
A healthy, vibrant and glowing skin is the foremost advantage that can be expected from regular facial massage. The dullness and sickly appearance that the face develops due to accumulation of various agents on the surface that tend to cause dehydration of the cells is removed effectively through such a massage. Rigorous and regular massage of the face ensures that the commonly found puffiness is prevented and eliminated for good. The strokes of the massage are designed to stimulate the various muscles of the face and enhance blood circulation to all parts of the face. This action increases the oxygen available to the cells in those parts and also increases the production and distribution of collagen which acts as natural anti wrinkle therapy. The involuntary tightening of the facial muscles that is essential for wrinkle prevention is additionally helpful in getting rid of the double chin which most people tend to develop with age.
Gains for the Entire Body
The facial massage aids the entire body’s functioning in two basic ways. Firstly the massage action ensures that blockages in the sinuses are removed thus reducing the occurrences of sinusitis and related allergies. The other wonderful advantage offered by this kind of a massage therapy is that it increases the flow of lymphatic fluid from the lymph nodes and ensures better circulation. This fluid is vital for eliminating the toxic residues in the system. Through better detoxification the immunity of the entire body is significantly improved.
Enhancing the Mood
One of the most endearing facts about the facial massage is that it is hugely helpful in giving an upward swing to the general mood of the individual. The fresh feeling face and relaxed muscles tend induce a feeling of general wellness in the individual and are excellent means of de stressing. Depression and anxiety levels are naturally lowered by this pleasant experience.
Facial Massage – Basic Techniques Involved
The several variations in the facial massage techniques are based on the specific requirements of the receiver. It may be in the form of an anti-aging facial, a mini massage or a photo treatment employing the power of light on the skin. However the basic technology used by most variants of this kind of massage therapy generally remain the same. The procedure is commenced by a wash of the face with cold water followed by application of the exfoliating face cream. The cream is massaged gently over the face and under the chin to ensure its spread. Scrubbing action with these creams involves circular motion with a sponge cloth. After removal of the cleansing cream comes the actual massage through vigorous rubbing and patterned strokes. The neck and under chin areas require gentle upward strokes in continuation for five minutes. The general areas of the face are treated with upward and outward strokes carried out in small circular motions. The circular motions are pronounced for the eyes requiring slight pressure on the temples. The forehead is usually given upward and outward strokes with adequate pressure. Another important technique is to make a V with two fingers and place it on any part of the face and use the index finger of the other hand to apply pressure inside the V and give massage to that area. Sharp slapping action on the cheeks is essential for retaining the lively looks by better blood circulation. Ensure that after the massage the face is covered with suitable protective cream to avoid developing pimples. The massages in varying lengths of time must be carried out on a weekly, monthly and yearly basis to derive the maximum benefits.
Facial Massage at Home
Having understood the basic techniques involved it is much easier to give yourself a great facial massage at home instead of wasting time and money at costly spas. The cleansing of the face can be achieved by a good steaming of the face which can be arranged with essential herbs dropped into a bowl of hot and steaming water. This process helps loosen up the surface to facilitate the removal of the dead cells. A smooth paste of oatmeal and cinnamon with milk makes for a superior cleansing cream that can be applied after the steaming. A combination of honey and milk has amazing effects as a facial mask and cucumber slices can be employed to provide the compressive action on the eyes. Cucumber tonic for toning and a bit of jojoba or almond oil for moisturizing action can be applied after a refreshing facial massage therapy at the comforts of your home.
The facial massage when done with the right ingredients and in the correct manner by the crafty hands of an expert masseur can become the fountain head of everlasting youth for those who undertake it regularly. In addition to the pleasure and relaxation that it offers, a great facial massage it rejuvenates the face skin and tones up the facial muscle to ensure a younger and energetic appearance. The mood alleviating properties and beneficial effects on the overall mental state, make this kind of massage therapy one of the most preferred practices in today’s hectic life schedules.
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