Skin is the largest organ of the body and requires constant care. While the topical applications of lotions, creams and serums do the work, sometimes your skin needs to be treated like they did in the olden times. Ayurvedic facial therapy, or Mukha Abhyanga is one of the most popular ways to relax, massage and tone the facial muscles. This therapeutic massage is done with ayurvedic or herbal and medicinal oils, following the specialized steps and methods.
A relaxing method to unwind the stressed muscles of the face, Mukha Abhyanga is done to recover the skin from external damage caused by prolonged sun exposure, pollutants in the air and other seasonal troubles caused due to too much heat or cold, humidity etc. Massage is performed keeping in mind the "Marmas" or vital points on the face and neck. These pressure points are massaged accordingly with blended herbs of Ayurveda recipes to cleanse, exfoliate and nourish the skin.
Facial Yoga works just like Yoga works on your body. It stretches the stiff and stressed muscles, makes the skin more supple and brings out an inner glow. Mukha Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Facial Massage) helps with -
- Nourish the skin deeply to maintain skin's elasticity
- Unwinds the facial muscles and relaxes the mind
- Boosts natural glow to the skin
- Tightens the facial muscles to prevent sagging
- Improves blood circulation
- Drains out the toxins
Face exercises or face massages are super trendy on IG, Facebook, and Pinterest in today’s era to get a relaxing and tightened face. It is more like face yoga that assists in sculpting the inner facial muscles by massaging cheek muscles and other face areas in an upward direction. Massaging your facial muscles targets the lymphatic drainage system, which clearly outlines all the toxins and fluids and improves control of very moving stress and tension. The proper circulation of blood enhances the functioning of inner cells and eventually brightens the skin. Facial massages support mixing blood with essential nutrients and oxygen into the skin tissue to nourish and improve cell renewal. As conventional massages can be expensive and part of a luxurious life, facial massages are DIY-able.
How do face massages work?
Face massages are the synchronization of hand movements that helps to relax yet tightening the facial muscles. Several studies have proved that issues and adhesions can be treated by massage. There are several benefits of facial massages, including –- Releasing of tension around the jaw
- Improving tightness in the scalp
- Benefits blood circulation in the face
- Firms the facial tissues by stimulating muscles
- Smoothes fine lines and aids in lymph flow
Your face has hundreds of pressure points, and each point is responsible for a specific functioning of the body. Face massage or Mukha Abhyanga is the most natural way to tone, sculpt, and lift your face and neck. The smooth stroke of hands helps in the production of collagen and elasticity in your skin while also allowing it to repair itself.
Some tips to follow while massaging the skin:
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Remember to prep your skin
It is advised to wash your hands with warm water and anti-bacterial soap or wash to avoid passing germs from your hands to your skin. Cleanse your face before massaging and reach out to ayurvedic or chemical free foaming facewash that ensures your skin's safety. Cleansing would soften up the pores and allow the serum to absorb better. Choose a cleanser that suits your skin type. For oily skin you can use Tea Tree and Neem foaming face wash, it will help control oil production and prevent acne eruptions as well.
If your skin is oily on the T-zone and dry on the cheeks, try Ubtan foaming face wash. It balances the skin oil and improves poor hygiene. For dry and mature skin, opt for a face wash with hyaluronic acid in it. Try Vitamin C, E, HA Facewash from TAC to provide hydration and gentle cleansing.
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Massage with correct steps
Facial massage does not require extra time and effort. Follow along with your skincare routine by massaging cleansers, serums, creams, moisturizers into your skin. Just a 2-minute session can prevent wrinkles and relax your skin and mind. If you want a hydrating and toned skin, go for Triphala with Yasthimadhu and Niacinamide Serum. Massage the serum into your skin pores and refreshes the skin.
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Pick the right product
Facial massages allow better absorption of treatment creams and serums into the pores. The rubbing motion and heat from your hand helps the serum sink into your skin and work its magic. It can backfire when the skincare product you are using is harmful and filled with chemicals. TAC's Anti-Aging Vitamin C, E & HA Face Serum is organically curated and doesn't involve fragrance, alcohol, parabens, and silicones. It has the goodness of green tea, avocado, liquorice that heals and hydrates the skin. -
Take help of the tools
Although your hands are enough to massage effectively but to add a little twist, you can adopt facial massaging tools that deliver incredible results. These tools help to lift the saggy skin, improve lymphatic circulation and recharge the elasticity. You can also try TAC's foaming face wash range that comes with a cleaning brush and improves blood circulation.
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Be cautious
If your skin is sensitive, acne-prone, oily, you should be light on your skin. Other than glowing skin, facial massage also benefits lymphatic drainage, responsible for carrying white blood cells throughout the body. Sensitive skin individuals can suffer from redness and scars if the hand movement is quick, harsh and used without serum or a moisturizer.
DIY facial massage for quick results
Facial massage for forehead: Settle your fingertips over your eyebrows and gently push towards your forehead and into your scalp. Choose the pressure limit according to your skin's need but start with a slow and gentle push.
Facial massage for eyes: With the help of the index and middle finger, gently massage the area around your eyes in a circular motion for a few seconds. Create an oval path starting from the temple towards your eye area and the bridge of your nose.
Facial massage for face: Gently glides your fingertips from your temples down towards your face and neck. It will help in proper fluid function and lymphatic drainage.
Facial massage for cheekbones: Take your left index and middle finger and create a peace sign. Place the forefinger above your cupid's bow and middle finger below the bottom lip. Gently massage the area towards your ear simultaneously.
Facial massage is one of the main ways to provide healing and relaxing senses to your skin. The secret to long term results is being consistent and having patience. It benefits from boosting circulation and lifting and toning your complexion. Try it before going to bed to add an extra boost.
