The best facial massage. Reviews and results, before and after photos

Issues discussed in the material:

• Why does the face age with age?
• How facial massage helps stop age-related skin changes
• At what age and how often can facial massage techniques be used?
• Who is not recommended to have a facial massage?
• What techniques are considered the best?

Many are convinced that the best prevention of wrinkles is expensive cosmetic procedures, and the only effective means of combating age-related changes is a plastic surgeon’s knife. But we want to share with you effective types of massage that you can perform even on your own at home. To maintain youthful facial skin, it is very useful to learn some techniques and perform them regularly. From our article you will learn what the benefits of facial massage are and what rules exist for performing it.

What is the purpose of facial massage?

Massage is not a medical procedure. It is classified as a therapeutic and preventive technique. Although it has a certain healing effect together with other rejuvenating activities.

Facial massage (reviews and results of most women indicate the effectiveness of the procedure with an integrated approach) when carried out regularly:

• prevents the appearance of wrinkles, helps reduce existing skin wrinkles;
• activates blood circulation;
• relieves swelling;
• helps improve skin tone;
• relieves tension and muscle tension;
• improves complexion.

Massage sessions, thanks to the mechanical effect on the skin, allow you to free the pores from excess fat, remove dead epithelium, preventing the appearance of various rashes. The procedure also has a general healing effect. There are biologically active points in the face area. Each of them is responsible for the work of a specific organ. With proper influence on them, the functioning of the entire body improves.

Types of cosmetic massage

Chiroplastic facial massage is a completely new unique method of influencing the skin, developed by a professor at the Institute of Manual Therapy in Barcelona. This style of massage allows you to achieve an amazing lifting effect thanks to a set of specific movements that irritate skin receptors, thereby causing a response from the body in the form of dilation of blood vessels located in the dermis and hypodermis.

This miracle massage is intended not only for the face, but also for the arms, neck, and collar area. Chiroplastic massage helps improve blood microcirculation, normalize the functioning of sweat and sebaceous glands, and smooth out both facial and shallow static wrinkles.

Pinch massage (Jacquet massage) is a type of therapeutic facial massage performed mainly with pinches. It was invented by the French dermatologist L. M. L. Jacquet in the 19th century. The Jacquet technique is based on actions that allow you to “squeeze” the sebaceous glands, thereby ensuring their normal functioning. A talcum powder massage is performed and is recommended for seborrhea, open or closed comedones, and stagnant spots after acne. The duration of the session depends on the characteristics of the skin and usually does not exceed 20 minutes.

Myofascial facial massage is a complex method that combines deep breathing and a varied short-term load on one or an entire muscle group. This technique helps to relax the facial muscles and also remove muscle tension. By forcing deep muscles to work, massage corrects the oval of the face and smoothes the skin texture. As a result, the so-called “mini-lifting” of the face occurs: wrinkles in the area around the eyes and on the forehead are smoothed out, nasolabial folds become less noticeable.

Indications

Indications for sessions are:

• flaccid or sagging skin;
• unclear oval face, presence of a double chin;
• unhealthy skin color;
• dark circles under the eyes;
• circulatory disorders;
• acne;

• age-related skin changes.

Essence and mechanism

Impact on certain areas with massage movements (objects) in order to accelerate metabolic processes, relieve tension, improve blood supply, and eliminate wrinkles. The effect of the massage is complex: muscle turgor improves, its oval is tightened, the outlines of the face become clear. Massage movements eliminate wrinkles.

Mechanism of action of the anti-aging procedure

With intense massage movements, blood flow through the capillaries accelerates and metabolic processes improve. Elastin and collagen fibers are synthesized faster. As a result, the firmness and elasticity of the skin improves, swelling and puffiness go away, and muscle tissue is strengthened.

The rejuvenating procedure stimulates the outflow of lymph, which allows you to quickly reduce bags under the eyes. Massage movements improve the fat metabolism of the skin, eliminating traces of scars and acne.

Indications and contraindications

These massage techniques are recommended for women over 30 years of age and at an earlier age to prevent skin aging. This is a real way to prolong your youth and beauty.

Who is contraindicated for rejuvenating facial massage?

The procedure is not recommended if a person has:

• herpes;
• hemophilia;
• large warts and moles;
• acute inflammatory processes;
• oncology;
• high or low blood pressure;
• varicose veins;
• ulcers;
• elevated temperature;
• fungal diseases;
• infectious diseases in the acute stage.

You cannot use rejuvenating massage for mental disorders or severe stress. Not for pregnant and lactating women, elderly people. Prohibited for tuberculosis, diabetes, and during the recovery period after surgery. It cannot be done after concussions, and if the patient has implants in the body.

Contraindications

Facial massage (reviews and results of the procedure are mostly positive) also has contraindications.

It cannot be carried out when:

• elevated body temperature;
• the presence of chronic pathologies in the acute stage;
• violation of the skin in the affected area;
• poor blood clotting;
• herpes, eczema, pyoderma;
• increased fragility of blood vessels;
• numerous moles and papillomas;
• oncology of nearby organs;
• acute neuritis of the facial nerves;
• acute sinusitis.

Precautionary measures

Facial massage, unlike many other types of massage, has the smallest number of restrictions.

You should not sign up for a session if you have some damage to your facial skin. Be it wounds, skin diseases (such as herpes, pustular rashes), acute inflammation of the facial nerve, very close proximity of blood vessels, their expansion. In this case, a massage can not so much help as seriously harm, so be very attentive to the condition of your skin before starting the procedure.

By the way, for men: excess facial hair is also a contraindication for facial massage.

Pros and cons, effectiveness of methods

Facial massage can solve many skin problems together with other anti-aging procedures. Also, regular sessions, judging by the reviews of women, eliminate symptoms of depression, improve the quality of sleep, and allow you to relax. In each individual case, a specific massage technique is used, depending on the desired result.

Manual massage

Manual massage is carried out using various movements:

• stroking;
• pressing;
• kneading;
• sawing;
• patting;
• vibrations.

The procedure, performed by a professional, improves complexion, tightens the skin, and reduces the severity of wrinkles. Due to the lymphatic drainage effect, swelling is eliminated. The active effect normalizes blood flow and ensures sufficient oxygen supply to the tissues. Regular manual massage helps to activate muscles that are little used. Regular courses are recommended for women over 30 years of age.

The procedure slows down skin aging by enhancing metabolic processes mechanically. In addition, facial massage has a positive effect on the general condition of the body. The specialist’s manipulations have an anti-stress effect, soothe and relax.

Technique for eyebrows and forehead

You can do eyebrow and forehead massage yourself, choosing a convenient time. It is allowed to carry out several procedures per day. This effect helps eliminate headaches, normalize sleep, smooth out facial wrinkles in the eye area and deep wrinkles on the forehead. First, light strokes are performed, moving from the inner edge of the eye to the outer. Then they move on to more intense kneading. The session ends with pats and light vibration.

When massaging the forehead, the fingers move from the middle to the temples. Next, use your fingertips to draw figure eights on the skin. Finish the procedure with light pats. This type of massage is combined with classical techniques and the use of aromatic oils (almond, coconut).

Morning technique

The morning procedure helps to quickly remove swelling and improves skin color. Do it yourself, treating the skin with your fingertips. You need to move along the massage lines.

The best facial massage is performed using well-known massage lines. You can do it yourself.

Regular morning sessions help:

• improving blood circulation, activating metabolic processes;
• improving facial contour;
• reducing swelling;
• improvement of general well-being.

Ice cube technique

Facial massage (reviews and results from women indicate an improvement in skin condition after the procedure) with ice is best done in the morning.

Under the influence of cold:

• skin tone increases;
• dark circles under the eyes disappear;
• blood flow is activated.

For greater effectiveness, it is recommended to apply a hot compress before the procedure. To do this, moisten a towel with hot water, wring it out and apply it to the skin. After this, treat the face with ice cubes, blot the remaining liquid with a napkin and lubricate the skin with day cream.

Japanese massage technique

This technique was developed by Japanese cosmetologist Yukuko Tanaka. This massage is more intense, unlike other techniques. During the procedure, each area of ​​facial skin is treated simultaneously with all fingers.

This type of massage is considered the most effective for age-related changes.

Toffa method

The inventor of this type of massage is Joseph Toffa. According to the author of the technique, this effect allows you to improve your appearance without surgery or injections. The procedure is recommended for women 30-40 years old who are experiencing the first signs of aging.

During the session, work is done with blood vessels, muscles, nerve endings, and bone frame, which ensures a long-lasting effect of the procedure. Thanks to the massage, the production of collagen and elastin is activated, the condition of the skin improves, and the contours of the face are tightened.

Biovascular technology

The purpose of this technique is to activate the flow of lymph and blood. Thanks to the combination of lymphatic drainage, structural and biovascular action, the skin becomes elastic and tightened, wrinkles are reduced, and facial contours become clearer. Hemo-lymphatic drainage technique allows you to eliminate swelling, cleanse the skin of toxins, and improve its nutrition. This technique can be used separately for the forehead, double chin area and cheeks.

Hakim

The main task of the professional Hakim technique is to achieve harmony between the body and emotional state.

The massage using this technique is both soft and deep, using:

• meridians;
• biologically active points;
• nerve endings.

The procedure allows you to model new facial contours and activate energy flows. Thanks to this energy treatment, healthy reactions of the body are restored and the aging process is slowed down.

Reaffirming method

This technique was invented in Spain. Its author is cosmetologist Enrique Garcia.

The procedure allows you to:

• slow down the aging process;
• reduce the severity of facial wrinkles;
• improve complexion;
• eliminate dark circles under the eyes and puffiness.

The purpose of reaffirming massage is to activate regeneration processes, which provides a powerful rejuvenating effect. This massage is done exclusively in the salon, and an individual scheme is selected for each client.

Roll stretch

The technique is based on an enzyme peeling method that stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. The result of the procedure is the formation of a new facial contour and increased skin elasticity. The procedure is carried out only in salons.

It consists of 3 stages:

1. warming up;
2. tonic stage;
3. facial sculpting.

Also, thanks to massage, facial asymmetry is reduced, rashes and age spots are eliminated.

Aesthetic method

During the aesthetic massage, the subcutaneous tissues are intensively affected, which allows you to model the oval of the face. The procedure is also carried out in the salon according to an individual scheme.

The strength and depth of impact are influenced by:

• severity of age-related changes;
• skin type;
• client sensitivity.

During the session, the face and neck, scalp, and décolleté area are treated using oils and creams. During the procedure, various massage techniques are used, for example, classical, Japanese, lymphatic drainage. This effect allows you to saturate the skin with oxygen, improve blood circulation, and activate lymph flow.

Korean method

Korean healing technique improves lymphatic drainage, eliminates muscle blocks and tension. The procedure is recommended for women with dry, dehydrated skin. Also indications for its implementation are bags and dark circles under the eyes.

During the session, special oils and oil mixtures are used in large quantities, which increases the effectiveness of the procedure.

Scandinavian technology

The procedure improves the movement of lymph and blood through the vessels. The skin is treated with light stroking along the lymph flow, which restores facial contours, smoothes wrinkles, eliminates dark circles under the eyes and swelling. The procedure allows you to cleanse the skin of toxins, improve its breathing, and start recovery processes.

The technique is also suitable for working on the décolleté area. It is recommended for women whose breasts have lost their firmness after breastfeeding or sudden weight loss. In addition, Scandinavian massage sessions relax, improve your emotional state, and relieve anxiety and irritability.

Mimic technique

This procedure is recommended for women over 30 years of age. The technique allows you to eliminate the first age-related changes. When working on the forehead, the area around the eyes, nasolabial folds move along the lymph. Massaging the eyebrows, make movements from the center of the forehead to the temples. The procedure can be carried out not only in the salon, but also at home. The session lasts 10-20 minutes.

Metabolic method

Indications for the procedure are:

• fine wrinkles;
• swelling;

• increased pigmentation;
• problematic skin.

Thanks to the deep effects, active stimulation of blood and lymphatic vessels, the condition of the skin improves, toxins and waste are removed, signs of premature aging disappear, and tissue nutrition improves. In addition, the procedure has a relaxing effect and allows you to get rid of stress.

Causes of facial aging and wrinkles

No one can avoid aging - it is a natural and natural process that is associated with general changes in the body.

The main reasons that accelerate facial aging are:

• muscle spasms;
• incorrect posture and immobility of the cervical spine;
• age-related changes in bone structure;
• belonging to a certain skin type;
• prolonged exposure to direct sunlight;
• too active facial expressions;
• neglect of procedures or incorrect actions for facial skin care;
• presence of bad habits, non-compliance with sleep patterns.

With age, the skin loses its ability to recover quickly and becomes flabby and inelastic. Factors influencing these changes are slowing blood flow, muscle spasms, and deterioration of the bone structure. The skin becomes thinner, translucent, loses its fat layer, and takes on the appearance of parchment paper.

Excessive exposure to the sun is also harmful, the skin of the face dries out, and dark pigment spots appear on it. Some muscles on the face are constantly toned, others are weakened, lymph does not cleanse the skin of toxins well. All this leads to the fact that the contours of the face change: the eyelids droop in folds, the nasolabial lines become deeper, the facial contour loses its clarity, becomes flabby, and a double chin is formed.

Another unfavorable factor is a decrease in calcium content in the bone structure, as a result of which they become thinner. And the accompanying muscle hypertonicity leads to sagging skin and the appearance of wrinkles.

Comparison of the effectiveness of popular facial massage techniques, expert conclusions

The choice of massage technique is influenced by financial capabilities, indications and contraindications, and skin condition. Each technique has its own advantages, disadvantages and limitations.

Regardless of the technique, most doctors agree that to obtain results, massage must be combined with other procedures:

• peeling;

• facial cleansing;
• masks depending on skin type;
• hardware methods.

Facial massage (reviews and results may vary among different women) does not guarantee a positive effect for absolutely everyone. Everything is individual, since each representative of the fairer sex has her own lifestyle, her own eating habits, which affects the condition of the skin. You should also remember that the result will always be temporary. In addition, the procedure must be performed by a qualified specialist who has the appropriate certificates.

According to dermatovenerologist A. Edemsky, the type of aging is of great importance. Depending on this, the procedure can be either useful or harmful. When soft tissues sag, massage procedures promote the outflow of lymph and allow the muscles to return to tone. If there are wrinkles and creases, there will be little effect. In this case, you cannot do without injections or hardware techniques.

Dermatologist I. Aksenenko considers the procedure effective, but only as part of complex therapy. It is also important to choose your own individual rejuvenation scheme for each client, taking into account all the features of the skin. Massage is a basic procedure; after it, you should use hardware and injection correction methods.

Plastic surgeon O. Shemonaeva claims that the procedure can only be effective at a young age as a preventative measure. More complex cases cannot be solved with massage alone. It will only help tone the skin, activate blood flow, and improve complexion. With age-related atrophy of soft tissues, only fillers (fat, fillers) can help. Facial massage is a fairly pleasant procedure that relaxes and gives pleasure.

Compared to expensive products and procedures for aging skin, it is inexpensive and also has a small list of contraindications. However, one should not hope to regain youth only through massage sessions. Judging by the reviews of women, the effect, even after a whole course, is present, but it is short-lived. To obtain the desired result, massage should be used only in combination with other rejuvenating procedures.

Execution Rules

There are several types of massage in cosmetology, but the recommendations for implementation are general. In the complex of face and neck care, it is also important to have a balanced diet, water regime, and proper rest. This will allow you to maintain the achieved aesthetic effect after the course.

Rules:

1. Creates a relaxing atmosphere. The master can turn on quiet, calm music and use aromatic candles.
2. It can be performed in a lying or sitting position; it is important to relax as much as possible.
3. It is not recommended to talk or laugh during the session, so as not to strain the facial muscles.
4. The hair is tucked under the bandage. To achieve greater effectiveness, often before manipulations on the face, neck, décolleté, a head and ear massage is performed.
5. All movements are smooth, along massage lines. Lymph nodes should not be massaged or rubbed.
6. Each technique immediately replaces each other; long pauses and intervals are unacceptable.
7. The master's hands must be neat and well-groomed. Short rounded nails are the best manicure for a cosmetologist.
8. For easy glide, as well as saturation of the skin with useful elements, basic vegetable oils and essential compositions are used. Depending on the composition, they can tone, moisturize, and rejuvenate.
9. Some techniques use talc to prevent slipping. It is often used in pinch and plastic massage to prevent the formation of stretch marks.
10. Before the session, the face is cleansed, during manipulation the keratinized epithelium is softened, toxins and oxidants are removed.
11. After the massage, a mask or restorative cream can be used.
12. Cosmetic compositions, including oils, are tested for possible allergic reactions.