Massage therapists, we need to talk. Let’s face it; most of us could use a little more zest in our full-body routines. I know this because several massage therapists comment on it on various Facebook boards. Some admit boredom with the same/same, and others bravely admit that they doubt their skills. All of these will affect marketability.
Since most people seek my advanced clinical based skills, I am excited about the challenge when a client calls for a relaxing wellness massage. I take these requests as opportunities to fine-tune. Primary areas that are ideal for growth and creativity include the scalp, face, abdominal, feet, and hands. Last month I shared with you a scalp protocol. This month let’s move to the face.
Review the basics
- Start with their clean skin and your clean hands.
- Use a good quality facial product. I like Jojoba or Biotone’s Spa Facial Therapy moisturizer; if you want a lighter finish, try the Herbal Select Facial therapy massage lotion.
- Use warm towels before and after the massage. (Put a drop of essential oil in the water).
- Use upward strokes and a light touch.
The following is an easy to incorporate facial protocol that features pressure points and aromatherapy. It’s appropriate for almost anyone and is different enough from the standard school protocol to be interesting.
Aromasensory Facial Massage
Pressure Points
Use the pads of your index fingers; apply medium pressure and hold for one long breath; then shift fingertips to the next point and repeat. Work bilaterally and repeat each segment three times.
Forehead
Start at the inner eyebrow and work in three rows toward the hairline. Shift fingers over laterally and move back toward the eyebrow, and once again shift lateral and move to the hairline. Creating a zig-zag pattern.
Eye sockets
Starting at the inferior/ medial end eye socket, follow the landmarks all the way around until you reach the medial corner of the superior eyebrow ridge.
Cheekbones
Start with the sides of the nostrils inferior to the cheekbone and move along laterally. When you reach the most lateral end (jaw), perform some circular friction. Repeat the circular friction at the temples.
Ear Massage
Beginning at the earlobe, Petri sage the entire ear. Massage both ears bilaterally.
Full Face
Repeat each three times
Palmer pressure
Place both palms gently on the face – apply firm but gentle pressure and hold for one long breath- Start at the jawline and work in medical to lateral sections and moving superior from chin toward the hairline.
Fingertip stroke
place fingertips at chin and stroke entire face with both hands working to the forehead.
Friction cupping
Rub your hands together very hard and fast to build up the heat; then gently cup the area and hold for one long breath. Apply first to the eyes, then repeat for the ears
Finishing
Brush off energy from crown to shoulder and let your hands float off the client
Aromatherapy
For the Aromatherapy, portion adds a drop of essential oil to the massage medium. Simple choices include:
Lavender is always safe for a when in doubt choice.
Sandalwood or Frankincense for dry/ mature/male skin
Lavender/Tea Tree for oily skin
Chamomile or Geranium Rose for a lovely floral experience
Beware of using any citruses since they are known to contribute to photosensitivity.
As always, let the client smell the choice first. If they don’t like it, don’t use it.
I hope you will continue to explore different ways to be memorable and effective. I hope this helps inspire you.
Be well, Do good work, and write us about your favorite facial style.