Facial massage adds an extra element of luxury and pampering to facials and spa treatments. In addition, massage has physiological effects that contribute to good health. It relaxes muscles, stimulates the circulation of blood and lymph, reduces pain and improves sleep. All of these benefits improve the health and appearance of your skin. Massage leaves you feeling relaxed and peaceful, warding off stress-related wrinkles.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is probably the most familiar style of massage. Your aesthetician or massage therapist will use cream, lotion or oil to massage your face with long, soothing strokes and gentle circular massage. She will use cross-fiber strokes to gently broaden and relax tight muscles and reduce scars. Your therapist will also give you a scalp massage to relax the connective tissue and muscles on the cranium that cause headaches and eye strain. You can choose to have a scalp massage with warm oil and herbs to enhance the effect of the massage as well as conditioning your scalp and hair.
Lymph Drainage Massage
Lymph drainage massage is frequently included in a facial since the lymphatic system removes toxins from your tissues, including your skin, and reduces swelling. Lymph massage requires a light touch, since much of your network of lymph vessels is located just under the skin. Your therapist will stretch your skin around in soft circles to trigger the lymph vessels to contract, moving lymph fluid away from the skin and into the lymphatic system where harmful micro-organisms are destroyed. It is a deeply relaxing and soothing style of massage.
Acupressure Massage
Acupressure is a generic term for styles of massage such as shiatsu, tui na, Thai massage and ayurveda that originate in Asia and focus on the movement of energy through the body. During an acupressure face massage, you will feel very relaxed but later you will notice your energy level increase. Although some massage strokes are included, the treatment mostly consists of pressure on acupressure points. Your therapist will gently touch the acupressure points, hold each one for two or three breaths, and then release pressure.
Stone Massage
Aestheticians use small smooth stones, glass globes or marble to massage your face along with soothing cream, lotion or oil. The stones may be warm and relaxing or cool and soothing. Warm stones relax muscles and stimulate the circulation of blood and lymph. Cool stones reduce inflammation and swelling. Your therapist will choose the appropriate temperature for your skin's condition.
References
- " Milady's Standard Esthetics: Advanced Step-by-Step Procedures ;" Milady; 2009
- "Milady's Guide to Lymph Drainage Massage;" Ramona Moody French, 2003
- " A Complete Guide to Acupressure: Jin Shin Do;" Iona Teeguarden; 2002
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