Facial Massage — Does it really help?

This one will be shorter than most posts because there’s not a lot of science or to say on this. Except…that for some reason people love these posts. 🙂 I’ve sometimes wondered if it’s because we all really, truly want a magic wand for skin. In other words, something really simple, inexpensive, effective, and that works consistently. It’s the “grail” of skincare. 🙂

Cons for facial massage:

• It will not tighten your skin. There’s quite of bit of science proving that so far only building deep collagen, removing skin completely (like a facelift), or improving elasticity does this. Elasticity is that “snap back” effect.
• We all love before and after photos, but they can be completed doctored and not just by Photoshop. Sometimes it’s just unwitting like different lighting, bad photo angles, lost 3 pounds last week, etc.
• Stretching the skin is not the greatest unless it’s done gently by a good aesthetician. Think of what happens to skin over long periods of time that is stretched, like say a nine-month pregnancy, or a big weight loss. It doesn’t always “snap back” easily. The younger you are the more elastic fibers you have.
• It will not reduce or repair sun damage.
• With no data, this could be just a time waster and not actually harmful, but we don’t know. Time wasters though are on my hit list, and may be on yours.

Pros for facial massage:

• It can just feel good. Let’s not underestimate this. Still, I’d rather see done by a good aesthetician.
• Stimulates blood flow. This is almost always good, like exercise, but don’t overdo it.
• Could possibly help with penetration of good actives if you use them right before massaging.

I Hope this Helps,

Brandith Irwin, MD
Founder of SkinTour
Follow my skin tips and travels on Instagram!