FACIAL MASSAGE-WESTERN-STYLE

FACIAL MASSAGE-WESTERN-STYLE

In Western-style facial massage, the entire aspect of full facial massage which is to be a part of the whole body massage varies from the full facial treatment. This is to include techniques like steaming, masks etc. A normal body massage is t have a facial massage either at the commencement or at the ending of the entire massage therapy.

The most important feature of the Western-style facial massage is the effleurage which is the gliding movement present throughout the massage. The massaging should be done in such a way that the skin is not stretched out so the process has to be firm, gentle and stimulating too. The strokes which require a light pressure has to be directed upwards so as to give uplift to the face rather than the dragging the skin thus leading to sagging skin.
The distinctive steps involved in the usual facial massage are:

• The most important thing being cleanliness and hygiene, the primary step is to wash the hands thoroughly with soap and water, so as to remove any kind of dirt. The customer should be asked to remove contact lens, if the person is wearing one.
• Even though a facial massage could be done at any kind of flat surface like clean floor, the most comfortable position is to sit on a massage chair or on a massage bed.
• With the help of facial sponges or wet cotton pads, cleanser could be applied and has to be massaged thoroughly to remove the excess dirt and to make the face clean for the facial massage. After the massage, the cleanser could be wiped off with the wet cotton pads which are even readily available.

• In circular symmetrical way, slowly massage the face and neck with cream or lotion to be massaged with. Each and every facial muscle has to be covered. Massage thoroughly in the upwards direction on the neck and also along the line of face.
• Slowly reach the forehead with the back of the hands along with a slight pressure. Gently bring both thumbs side by side in the center and move them outwards slowly towards the temple. Repeat the massage as it relives any kind of tension which exists in the temples.

• Place the hands along the side of the face and apply light pressure along the hollow area beneath the eyebrows. With the help of the thumb, press one spot at a time under the ridge. Relieve pressure from the inner eyebrows to the outer region and continue the giving slight pressure with the thumb. Tensions headaches could be relieved by repeating this.
• Cover the face with the hands bringing the thumb along the bridge of the nose. With the help of the thumb, slide down towards the nostrils and then along the line of the cheeks and also apply pressure on the way gently. On reaching the hairline, slightly start releasing the pressure. Then, move the hands towards the head and thus moving away from the face. Repeat the same two times.
• Tension in the cheeks could reduce by producing circular slow movements along the contour of the cheeks.
• An enjoyable and relaxing massage is along the ear rim. Massage gently and slowly along the rim of the ear with the thumb and index finger.
• Place your fingers firmly on the back of the neck and place thumb on a spot on the jaw line and then circle slowly at one area later on moving to another. Stroke away gently massaging on the chin downwards. End up by moving along the jaw line. The tension around the jaw muscles and mouth could be alleviated.
• Scalp is also important so massage with small circular motions and the comb hair with the fingers so that tension could be released from the face and head thus enhancing the scalp.
• End up by removing the lotion with the help of wet cotton pads. Apply the after massage cream.