In the quest for vitality, skincare enthusiasts are constantly seeking new techniques to rejuvenate their skin. One method gaining increasing attention is facial massage — a practice that promises not just relaxation, but tangible benefits for the skin.

Whether it’s joy, surprise or frustration, our facial muscles work tirelessly to convey these feelings day in, day out. This continuous effort can lead to strain and headaches over time. Fortunately, there’s a remedy: employing facial massage techniques. Just as the rest of our body benefits from therapeutic touch, so too does our face.

To delve deeper into this trend, we spoke with Jessica Hartman, director of spa services at Spavia, and Bella Pei, licensed acupuncturist and esthetician at ORA, to uncover the benefits of facial massages and the best techniques for stress relief.

Benefits of Facial Massages

Facial massages offer a plethora of benefits, ranging from improved circulation to stress relief and enhanced product absorption. According to Hartman, the benefits include relieving tension and stress, promoting lymphatic drainage, stimulating collagen and elastin production and improving mood and relaxation. Pei further emphasizes that regular facial massages can release muscle tension, detoxify and de-puff the skin, prevent wrinkles and fine lines and maintain a youthful, vital appearance.

Stress Relief Techniques

Do you ever notice tension building in your face when stress or anxiety kicks in? You’re certainly not alone. Facial acupuncturists admit that our facial expressions often bear the brunt of emotional strain. With numerous facial massage techniques available, finding the right one for stress relief is essential. Hartman recommends focusing on acupressure points during facial massages. “Some research has confirmed acupressure can be effective in reducing stress and producing a calming effect,” she explains.

Pei highlights specific acupressure points, including BL2 (zan zhu), LI20 (ying xiang), ST6 (jia che), Tai Yang (great sun) and GB21 (jian jing), which target areas prone to stress and tension:

BL2 (zan zhu)

This point is located in the depressions between the medial extremity of the eyebrows (between the bridge of your nose and inner side of the brow bone). Apply pressure to this area during the skin care routine, in order to reduce puffiness around the eyes and lower pressure around the eyes.

LI20 (ying xiang)

This point is in the nasolabial groove, level with the midpoint of the lateral border of the ala nasi (where the bottom of the nostrils meets the face). Massaging this point can help soften deep smile lines.

ST6 (jia che)

This point is one finger width anterior and superior of the mandible at the belly of the masseter muscle (at the base of the jaw where the masseter muscle attaches). It is one of the best points to release TMJ, tense jaw muscles and even lockjaw. Apply pressure in circular motions to release tension.

Tai Yang (great sun)

Located on the temples, between the lateral side of the eyebrows and top of the ears. Massaging this point can help release eye tiredness, brighten the eyes and release tension and stress.

GB21 (jian jing)

This point is along the top of the shoulder, about halfway between where your neck and arms meet, on the muscular part of your shoulder. This point has been used widely to relieve headaches and muscle tension causing a sore or stiff neck. Massaging this area at the beginning of the facial massage can also help open the lymphatic system and improve lymphatic drainage, reducing puffiness in the face. (Note that stimulating this point may induce labor, so avoid during pregnancy.)

Incorporating Facial Massages into Your Routine

Adding facial massages to your skincare routine is easier than you might think. Hartman suggests incorporating massage into your daily skincare regimen by using natural oils for extended sessions of around 10-15 minutes. Pei also recommends a daily facial massage using a gua sha tool for optimal results.

Hartman agrees, adding, “Gua Sha stones typically have smooth, flat edges that allow for controlled pressure, easily glides over the skin, and covers more area for efficiency during massage without the strain on fingers.”

Professional vs. DIY

When it comes to achieving the best results, both professional and DIY approaches to facial massages have their merits. Hartman recommends both approaches for maintaining overall well-being, noting that professionals can offer targeted therapy tailored to individual needs.

Pei emphasizes the importance of combining at-home care with salon treatments, as each complements the other to unlock the skin’s full potential. “No matter how high-end your skincare product is, if you’re not hitting the correct facial pressure points and waking up your skin renewal system, you’re only absorbing about 20%, maybe even less. This is why we encourage both at-home and professional treatments,” she explains.

Facial massages offer a holistic approach to skincare, providing not only physical benefits but also promoting relaxation and well-being. Whether performed at home or by a professional, integrating facial massages into your routine can lead to a more radiant complexion and rejuvenated sense of self.