Does facial massage really work?

Facial massages are a trend. It all started with traditional Chinese medicine rituals that have become mainstream, with the popularity of using gua sha, jade rollers, and similar accessories. However, just take a look at TikTok or Instagram to realize that the phenomenon of facial manipulation remains very current. For example, there is a certain @anastasiabeautyfascia who extols The Fascia Strategy, a new technique for sculpting the face, claiming that massaging the fascia, defined by her as "like a suit that covers the entire body and face," is the beauty secret to detoxify, release tension in facial muscles, stimulate circulation, and look younger. It's a pity that this very thin piece of fabric is located under three layers of skin, above the muscle. Yet, videos on the topic multiply, as do other techniques that, complete with before-and-after photos, promise to sculpt the face without resorting to Botox, buccal fat removal, plastic surgery, or other invasive methods. Facial massage doesn't require lasers, microdermabrasion machines, or high-tech tools, but according to many creators, it yields surprising results: it makes wrinkles and double chins disappear, narrows the nose, addresses hooded eyes, refines the jawline, enhances cheekbones, and lifts eyebrows. But is it really so? Let's clarify a bit.

What is a facial massage?

It's easily understandable: a facial massage is simply the act of massaging the face. Like any other type of massage, it is a technique that manipulates the muscles and can be done with fingers, with a tool like a hot stone or a jade roller, or with specific exercises such as face yoga.

Can facial massage alter facial features?

The short answer is a resounding no. Despite what TikTok says, facial features cannot be shaped as if we were Play-Doh puppets. Even massaging for hours with every technique and tool possible, we will never be able to sculpt our face like Bella Hadid's unless we already have her bone structure. The structure and shape of the face are determined by underlying bones, fat distribution, and skin elasticity. The best facial massage in the world cannot alter bone structure, firm the skin, or restore volume by plumping sagging cheeks or filling under-eye hollows. The only way to truly shape the face is to use injectable cosmetic products or opt for surgical interventions.

The lifting effect is illusory

So why does the face appear more toned, sculpted, and features more chiseled in post-massage images? Facial massages do nothing for wrinkles, skin sagging, or hooded eyes, but the techniques stimulate circulation through lymphatic drainage. The act of pushing lymphatic fluid, responsible for introducing white blood cells between organs, towards the lymph nodes creates an episodic and non-permanent deflation effect that seems to redefine contours and shapes.

What are the benefits of a facial massage?

It may not make us look like one of the Hadid sisters, but facial massage still has several benefits. The key is to do it correctly and have realistic expectations. Let's see what they are:

• Improves circulation and stimulates blood flow,
• Can help increase collagen production,
• Can improve the appearance of the skin, reducing inflammation and swelling in the treated area,
• Gives a temporarily more volumized and radiant look,
• Relaxes and relieves muscle tension,
• Through lymphatic drainage, may have a mild effect on fine lines, wrinkles, or any swelling in certain areas of the face,
• Maximizes the effectiveness of beauty products by facilitating their absorption.

Are there any contraindications for facial massage?

Not performing a massage correctly can cause a series of undesirable problems for the skin. Friction, excessive pressure, or the use of inappropriate tools can irritate the skin and damage the skin barrier, causing inflammation, clogging pores, and potentially leading to the development of acne or other skin issues. Additionally, some massage techniques or aggressive movements can pull the skin, contributing to skin sagging or loss of elasticity over time. It is important to seek the help of a professional or, in the case of do-it-yourself, learn the right movements and always use a serum, oil, or moisturizing tonic for smoother application.

Will facial massage replace skincare products?

We talk about boycotting the beauty standards that society imposes, but in reality, most of us would and do everything possible to conform to them or, at the very least, to look our best. We want to be eternally young, with glowing, flawless skin, free of wrinkles. We want to be beautiful, whatever that word means to us. So we spend time and money on skincare, cosmetics, and unnecessary beauty treatments. In this context, facial massages, with their promise to improve our features at almost no cost (all you need are your hands or an inexpensive tool like the gua sha), represent an irresistible siren’s call. Even though, as far as we know, it's pseudoscience, and its benefits are mostly anecdotal and temporary, it seems almost miraculous. No more creams, serums, surgery, or painful and expensive treatments. All we need to do is work on the so-called "fascial system," stimulate our blood flow, increase lymphatic drainage and collagen production, and release tension in our faces through a series of specific movements. At least, according to the many videos popping up on TikTok. It’s no wonder then that Anastasia Beauty Fascia has convinced hundreds of women to join her $300 monthly course, which includes 30 days of pre-recorded tutorials promising a defined jawline, the disappearance of under-eye bags, and the erasure of nasolabial folds. Will treatments without creams and scalpels, more akin to grandma’s remedies than scientifically proven and lab-tested solutions, be the future of the beauty industry? Recent studies suggest that we are moving towards a holistic approach, where products and practices are geared towards long-term physical and emotional well-being. Nevertheless, none of us are ready to give up our favorite creams or serums just yet, but we are willing to integrate them with TikTok massages, hoping that it all helps us be as beautiful, young, and perfect as possible.