While we may think of a facial massage as simply a beauty regimen or a pampering session, its benefits may be more than skin deep.

With so many types of facial massages (such as lymphatic drainage, reflexology, shiatsu, gua sha) and so many techniques (like cupping, digital or knuckle kneading, vibrations, folding, tapping), more and more people are turning to facial massages for several reasons. 

What are the Benefits of a Facial Massage?

Clinical studies have revealed that aside from boosting our mood and giving us glowing skin a facial massage can also help with the following: 

• Reduce visible wrinkles - Because a facial massage can improve the overall appearance of our skin, it has been touted for its have anti-aging effects. This was found in a 2017 laboratory study that linked a regular facial massage with firmer skin — researchers reported how massaging the skin tissue can increase the levels of proteins in that tissue.  
• Improve skin blood flow - According to another study, using a facial massage roller can increase blood circulation in the face, which may have a positive effect on the appearance of our skin. 
• Reduce acne breakouts - When we stimulate the skin and promote blood circulation through a facial massage, this may help reduce inflammation and the appearance of acne. 
• Relieve sinus pressure - Although the research is still in its early stages, there have been indications that a facial massage roller may also help clear the sinuses. So as long as you’re not suffering from an infection or an acute stage of sinusitis, the massage can be used to relieve the discomfort and congestion. 

Give Yourself a Facial Massage at Home

If you find yourself unable to go out and get a spa treatment, you can still reap the benefits of a facial massage at home. 

Before you start, make sure that your hands and face are clean. Layer a small amount of serum, facial oil, cleansing balm, cream, or any facial product that will allow your fingers to glide over your face easily. You can also choose to use the surface of your palms. 

Remember to use gentle but firm pressure on your face. There are many techniques you can use to build your facial massage routine, and here are some of them: 

• Moving upwards from your chin to your forehead, massage the sides of your face with your palms and fingertips.
• Rub your fingers into your temples in a circular motion.
• With your ring finger, press and glide down your brow bone, moving from the inner to the outer corner (towards your ear). Do the same motion, but a little more carefully underneath your eyes.
• With your thumb and first finger, pinch your eyebrows, moving from the outer corners inwards toward your nose. 
• From the center of your brows, press and glide your fingers upward toward your hairline. From there, sweep the fingers toward your temples. 

Repeat each stroke five times. You can also decide to focus on a specific area and do the movements for 20 to 30 seconds.

Get into the Trend: Try Jade Rolling

Facial massage rollers have been gaining popularity and studies have also shown their benefits. If you prefer using a tool for your facial massage you can try the widely available jade roller. 

With this, you’ll also want to start with a clean and moisturized face. Gently roll the tool moving from the neck to the upper parts of the face. In general, you should roll up and outwards, instead of back and forth.

Aside from being a good way to destress after a long, tiring day, a facial massage can deliver amazing benefits to our health. And because it can be easily done at home, these benefits are all within your reach.