A facial massage can be relaxing and a type of pampering you don't indulge in every day. Whether your traditions are more in line with Western or Eastern philosophies, consider getting regular facial massages to reap the health benefits. Facial massage involves manipulating the tissues and muscles in your face as well as applying pressure to points that, in the custom of traditional Chinese medicine, can realign your body's energy--called "qi"--and reduce discomfort from a variety of ailments.
Relieves Pain
Eastern-style facial massage, built on the tenets of acupressure, can be a natural form of pain relief, according to the "Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." Through strategic manipulation of meridians, or pressure points throughout your face, your massage therapist or acupuncturist can ease neck pain, headache, fatigue from eye strain and even toothache. Always work with a licensed massage therapist or acupressure professional if your aim is to reduce pain through facial massage. People who have eczema or other skin disorders might experience flare-ups during or after a facial massage, so proceed with caution.
Improves Skin Appearance
If you have sagging skin from the normal aging process, you could benefit from a facial massage. The skin's support system includes two components: collagen, a protein that plumps up your skin, and elastin, which keeps your skin supple and flexible. Malena Harbers writes in the Canadian edition of "Elle" magazine that regular massaging of your skin's tissues can slow the breakdown of collagen and elastin--and even promote new collagen production, which keeps your skin firmer and more youthful looking. The manipulation of the muscles in your face during a massage also can improve muscle tone, which is essential for younger-looking skin.
Treats Water Retention
The physical touch of a facial massage can improve circulation and help you retain less water. Water retention--the facial puffiness you might have first thing in the morning--can be the result of eating too much salt, getting too little sleep or a variety of other factors. As explained by the "Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine," an Eastern-style facial massage that incorporates acupressure can relieve facial puffiness and water retention related to premenstrual syndrome. Western-style massage therapies get the blood moving throughout your face, allowing excess fluid to drain properly.
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