Daily movements like smiling, frowning, and chewing give your facial muscles a major work out. And just like your body benefits from a good rubdown after a hard sweat session, your face benefits greatly from a massage as well. In fact, facial work outs have skyrocketed in popularity with dedicated studios opening up across the US. Now, I’m not suggesting you sign up for facial yoga, but you can mimic a professional massage at home. Here’s everything you need to know to rub it down right. (Get your mind out of the gutter! I know what you’re thinking.)
Debra Jaliman, a dermatologist in New York City, tells SELF that you should always “wash your hands in warm water with an antibacterial soap and tie back your hair” to get any potential germs out of the way. You should also cleanse your face before massaging. If you want to really make your massage a spa-like experience, try steaming your face first. This will soften up the pores, allowing any product you apply to be absorbed better.
You can incorporate massage into the skincare steps you’re already doing.
Facial massage might sound like another unnecessary (and time-consuming) step in your skincare routine. But just two minutes a day can help prevent wrinkles and relax your mind. It’s ideal to set aside time both in the morning and the evening, but a quick facial massage a few times a week will still help you reap the benefits. Just spend a little extra time massaging in the cleanser or moisturizer you’re already using.
A facial massage can do more than make your skin look good.
If you’re looking to increase skin’s firmness, Jaliman recommends using deep, stimulating motions. And if your skin is sensitive, acne prone, or oily, she suggests trying a light touch with less pressure. One of the added benefits of facial massage–besides glowing skin—is lymphatic drainage. The lymphatic system is responsible for carrying white blood cells throughout the body, clearing away toxins. “[Massage] stimulates the movement of lymph fluid, which in turn supports the skin’s natural cleansing processes,” Mette Gustavsen, an esthetician with Dr. Hauschka Skin Care, tells SELF. Jaliman describes it as “giving your lymphatic system a ‘tune up.’” By manually increasing the flow of lymphatic fluid, you can reinvigorate your immune system and remove excess waste, she adds.
Keep your eye area out of the equation.
Because the skin around the eye is so gentle, it can’t handle as much pressure—and massage—as the rest of your face, Gustaven says. To alleviate puffy eyes, Gustaven suggests using soft pressing and rolling movements with your ring finger from the tear ducts to the outer corners of the eye.
Visit us on Facebook
CEO's Official 