Facial Massage 101
If you listened to my recent podcast episode with Patricia San Pedro (aka the queen of Facial Massage), you would know that facial massage is something I have been incorporating more and more in my routine. After sharing little snippets of my routine, I have received so many questions on it (what is it, how it helps, how to do it, etc.). So without further ado, here is my breakdown on facial massage:
What Is Facial Massage?
Facial massage is pretty much exactly what it sounds like—using your hands (or sometimes a tool, if you prefer) to gently massage the skin and underlying muscles of the face. I think one of the biggest misconceptions I hear on the subject is that it’s just another “wellness trend.” In actuality, it’s been used for centuries to support circulation, encourage lymphatic drainage, and relieve tension. Again, there’s a lot more to share on this subject, so if you haven’t already, I highly suggest listening to my episode with Patricia San Pedro.
The Benefits of Facial Massage
Now to the juicy bits, let’s cover some of the benefits you may experience!
Boosted circulation → More blood flow means more oxygen and nutrients delivered to the skin.
Lymphatic drainage → Gentle movements can encourage fluid to move toward lymph nodes, reducing puffiness (especially under the eyes and jawline).
Better product absorption/use → Ok this is kinda of an odd one, but I find when I am using my cleansing balm to incorporate facial massage, I am using the product a little more thoroughly. If you’re using a serum or moisturizer, massaging them helps penetrate more effectively.
Tension release → If you clench your jaw or furrow your brows (GUILTY), massage can help those muscles relax. It’s also just a form of massage, so it feels good!
Pro Tip: Results are usually subtle (we’re talking reduced puffiness and relaxation, not a facelift), but like anything, if you are consistent over time, it can make a real difference!
What to Use
There’s not too much to say here, but the main point I want to express is that you don’t need to complicate it. I already hinted at this, but more often than not, I use my cleansing balm step to incorporate facial massage. Just use a product that allows a “slickness” to your skin! You can obviously go all out with a gua sha tool and face oil, but it’s definitely not necessary.
My Step-by-Step Lymphatic Drainage Massage Routine
Here’s my exact routine:
Prep
Start with clean hands and apply your cleansing balm, oil, or serum for glide.
2. Stimulate the lymph nodes
Use your fingertips to gently press at the base of your neck (just above the collarbone). Pro Tip: I personally like a small circular motion for all the stimulation points.
Move to behind your ears, then in front of your ears, then the spots beside your nose, and finally the inner corners of your eyes (again, small circular motions for all of the above)!
This “activates” the pathways that fluid will drain toward.
3. Glide down the neck
Place your hands on either side of your jaw and sweep downward along the sides of your neck toward the collarbone.
Repeat 7–10 times. Think of this step as creating a clear path for drainage.
4. Jawline sculpt
Use the space between your index and middle finger to “hug” your jawline, starting at your chin.
Glide outward along the jawline until you reach just under the ear.
Repeat 7–10 times on each side.
5. Cheekbones
Place your fingers on either side of your nose and sweep outward, following the natural curve of your cheekbones up toward the temples.
Repeat 7–10 times.
6. Eye area
Using your ring fingers (gentlest touch), trace small circles around the eyes.
Start at the inner corners, move under the eye, up around the outer corner, and back over the brow bone.
This is especially good for morning puffiness.
7. Forehead
Glide your fingers upward from your brows to your hairline, then sweep outward toward the temples.
You can also use gentle “fan” strokes across the forehead to release tension.
Repeat 7–10 times.
8. Finish with full sweeps
Place your palms on your cheeks and gently glide outward, then sweep down the neck toward the collarbone.
This helps direct everything toward the lymph nodes.
Pro Tip: I should emphasize that these movements don’t need to be aggressive. I actually highly recommend using light, upward or outward pressure.
Alright that sums it up! DM me if you have any questions on the subject. Also, if you haven’t seen The Skincare Guide just got a massive revamp. It contains everything you could need when building a skincare routine.
xx Amy
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