Massage Therapy Journal Spring 2026

Spring 2026 • 35

The Benefits of Facial Massage Some of the many benefits of facial massage are: • Skin improves some of its naturally stiff, flexible and youthful properties. 2 • Improves the function of the scalp skin, which has positive effect for hair growth. 3 • Delaying the onset of wrinkles, and supple skin feel 4 • Minimizes scars 5 • Skin lifting and tightening 6 • Reduces anxiety and negative mood 7 • Reduces stress 8 In my clients, I have also noticed that facial massage helps the eyebrow muscles strengthen for a more open appearance, subtle wrinkles settle, prominent double-chin disappears and deep facial lines fade. How to Prepare for a Facial Massage Session There are several things massage therapists should do before seeing a client for a facial massage. Intake . Conduct a thorough intake with your client and ask questions about anything that seems out of the ordinary. (A sample intake form can be found on the ATMA website.) Some things to ask clients during intake include: • Current medications and why they are taking them • Major accidents or surgeries along with dates • Allergies or hypersensitivities • Reason for visit • Ask about other conditions they may have including head/neck, respiratory system, nervous system, musculoskeletal system, reproductive, cardiovascular, and other conditions such as cancer, diabetes, unexplained weight loss, digestive conditions, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, and anxiety and psychiatric disorders. Preparing for A Facial Massage Session . It is important to have the supplies ready for the client before a facial massage—have the natural oil or cream and antiseptic nearby for the client. Also, have the massage table oriented for a facial massage.

The Lymphatic System

A few important reminders to ensure both you and your client get the most benefit from facial massage: • Ask your client to wash their face and rinse their hands with an antiseptic before beginning a facial massage session. • Have natural oil or cream on hand to reduce friction with the skin during the massage. • Prepare clients for what they should expect. During the massage sessions, clients should feel the pressure exerted by your fingers, but they should not feel discomfort. Always check in with your client to ensure the pressure is comfortable. • Ease the pressure while massaging their ears, the area under the jaw, and the neck (which is where the lymph nodes are located).

Facial Lymph Massage: The Lymphatic System

Before I begin a facial massage, I like to perform some basic lymph stimulation to move the stagnant lymph fluid into the lymph ducts, which allows for some remarkable transformations in the facial appearance, from seeing puffy eyes recede to double chins reduced. This work is very light, but the results can be incredible.

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