Regular facial massage can help stimulate blood flow and improve the skin’s ability to regenerate and cope with bacteria, pollution and sun damage (which lead to wrinkles and adult acne). It can also help with the balance of oil and fluids, thus controlling common complexion problems like dryness and oiliness. And, like all massages, it can help lower your risk for nervous tension and depression. This article describes the four types of movements used in facial massage.
Effleurage movements
These are very gentle and relaxing movements that help with lympathic activity and vascular improvement. It uses the palms to gently massage the skin.
Petrissage movements
This movement should only be used when the facial muscles are relaxed. It has greater pressure and involves friction, rolling, knuckling, kneading and lifting. It is best used on mature and loose skin. The purpose of this movement is to work on oily surface cells, increasing lympathic and vascular flow and improving the skin’s defense against bacteria. It also stimulates the cells and helps remove dead tissue and reveal clear, new and stronger skin.
Tapotement movements
This facial massage movement involves light an risk strokes to stimulate the reflex nervous response. Fingers are tapped on the face to help tone and tighten the skin. However the movement should only be done for a short time because it can cause redness and irritation due to constriction of the blood vessels.
Other tips
Before a facial massage wash hands and face thoroughly with an antibacterial soap. Then apply almond or apricot oil on the face and then put a hot towel. This will open the pores and increase the skin temperature. Proceed with massage. Then wipe off excess oil and then tone the skin with rose water or lavender water.
Do a facial massage once a week. While some spas offer facial massages you can do it yourself after having one or two treatments so you can understand the kind of pressure you need to apply.
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