Facial massage – a “magic pill” or an effective way to combat wrinkles?

A clear trend in the beauty industry in recent years is facial massage. Stars and influencers all over the world have become addicted to it. In the wave of popularity, facial practice studios are opening, special courses are popping up, and marketplaces are full of self-massage devices. Even celebrity cosmetologist Melanie Grant, whose clients include Kim Kardashian and Victoria Beckham, associate the stars’ perfect complexion with regular facial massages. But do not rush to order a gouache scraper – in fact, everything is not so simple.

Ekaterina Kovaleva, cosmetologist in the “Milfey” beauty salon

How good is a facial massage?

All types of massage are the stimulation of blood circulation and lymph flow. This is where all its main advantages come from.

– The effect of lymphatic drainage, due to which the products of decay leave the skin tissues and the swelling disappears.

– Initiation of active microcirculation, due to which the skin tissues are saturated with oxygen and the face acquires a fresh and rested appearance.

– Stimulation of fibroblasts – proteins of the extracellular matrix, which in turn stimulate the production of collagen.

– Improving muscle tone and relieving spasms due to in-depth examination of the muscles and fascia.

– The effect of neuro-relaxation is an improvement in the psycho-emotional background of the body, resulting in relaxation, relief from stress, a sense of calmness and balance.

At the same time, all visual changes that can be seen after the procedure (pronounced cheekbones or brow lift) are temporary. So far, there are no studies to prove that massage will help reduce wrinkles, get rid of wrinkles, or provide a clearer contour to the face. According to most experts, only injection or hardware cosmetology can do this.

What massage techniques are there?

Each person will have their own massage technique, depending on the condition of their skin and the desired result.

Hiromassage (also known in Spanish) – simultaneous action on all body systems: mechanical rubbing of the skin surface along special lines. “Hiro” in Latin for “hand”, this type of massage is performed not only with the fingers and palm, but also with the forearms without the use of additional tools.

plastic massage – manual method of mechanical action on the skin, which has a pronounced lifting effect.

purifying massage – a technique that uses an enzyme peel, scrub or cleanser. It is particularly suitable for combination and oily skin types.

osteopathic massage – a procedure that relieves muscle spasms, improves skin tone, color and condition. By acting on certain points of the face, you can improve the functioning of the internal organs. It includes several subspecies – corgi and myofascial massage.

cheek massage – This is a combination of standard massage techniques that act on the muscles from the oral cavity for a deeper study.

Which tool to choose?

Massage techniques can be performed both manually and with the help of tools and scrapers. There are now a large number of the latter, so at-home massage has become an integral part of the beauty routine for many.

For beginners, gouache rolls and scrapers are suitable. It’s safe and easy to use, and you can find tutorials on proper massage technique from instructors on YouTube.

The more advanced may look into devices for microcurrent therapy. They relieve swelling by stimulating the muscles. But before you start using them, be sure to read all the contraindications for use.

To whom is facial massage contraindicated?

It is important to remember that any technique, manual and equipment contributes to the rapid removal of botulinum toxin. Therefore, for those who have recently had fresh Botox injections, it is better to wait a little with a massage. The same goes for fillers. After insertion, you should wait at least two to three weeks before massaging.

Also, with severe inflammation, scarred skin, and second-degree acne, massage can work in the opposite direction. Therefore, it is only acceptable for mild rashes.

And a few more tips:

– facial massage should be done on well-cleansed skin;

– the massager must be thoroughly cleaned after each procedure;

– You need to complete the process with the right care products.

Massage at home will be your assistant to quickly tone your face, relieve puffiness and improve skin condition. But, as we said before, don’t fall for the tricks of the marketers and think that massage can get rid of wrinkles and create a perfect facial contour.