Face Massage Techniques

There are several different types of face massage techniques used in health spas, massage therapy centers and beauty salons. Many benefits are attributed to a soothing face massage-from reversing the aging process to clearing up acne and reducing a double chin. You can learn how to give yourself a face massage easily.

Performing a Soothing Face Massage
Indian mothers teach their daughters to massage their faces regularly. This is done by cleaning the face with warm water and a mild cleanser, then applying a liberal amount of face cream or moisturizer. Using dabs of cold water on the fingers, the entire face is stroked with firm, long strokes. You will want to stroke your face upwards, including under your chin and up onto your face, always lifting the skin upwards, resisting the pull of gravity. Rub in circles around the eyes, then massage the third eye in the center of your forehead with circular motion. Finish the massage with a light misting of cool water scented with something mild like rose petals.

Yoga Facial Massage
Yoga facial massage is another face massage technique gaining popularity. This is done after a yoga session. You will want to lie on your back and stroke your face gently with prescribed motions. Start with two fingers on the sides of your face and stroke up and down along the points where your ears join your face. Then move to the temples, and using two fingers on each side of your temples, massage in a circular motion, allowing the circles to grow wider and wider until you are massaging your entire jaw. Next, run your hands through your hair, gently combing your hair, and then massaging the scalp.

When you are done with this, rub your hands together to generate heat in your palms. When you feel heat between your palms, place your hands over your eyes and forehead, allowing the heat to bring comfort and energy to your forehead and eyes.

Different Types of Facial Massage Techniques
There are many variations to the above-mentioned facial massage techniques. Chinese facial massages make use of acupuncture and/or acupressure to open energy flow. Stroke patients receive concentrated facial massages intended to regain control of and stimulation of the nerves in the face.

Massage therapists trained in Swedish massage may stroke the area from the center of your forehead across to your temples in a soothing motion. All of these techniques promote a sense of well-being, the release of stress, increased blood flow and stimulation of nerve endings in the face.