Aging-reducing facial massage: Advantages, devices, and how to attempt it
Face Massages: A Potential Anti-Aging Solution?
New research suggests that face massages could be a promising approach to reduce signs of aging, although more definitive human data is still emerging. Here's a closer look at the potential benefits and techniques of facial massages.
Mechanistic Evidence and Benefits
Animal studies indicate that face massage could stimulate lymphatic clearance pathways, which might enhance waste removal from the brain. This could potentially have implications for neurodegenerative disease and aging processes. Human studies, however, are yet to confirm this, though the biological plausibility is growing [1][4].
Microcurrent facial treatments, a type of facial massage using low electrical currents, show evidence of stimulating collagen and elastin production. These structural proteins are essential for youthful, firm, and elastic skin. Increased collagen production can help reverse signs of aging such as sagging, dullness, and wrinkles by toning underlying facial muscles and boosting microcirculation [2].
More generally, massage therapies have been shown to reduce cortisol (a stress hormone) and increase mood-enhancing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which can indirectly influence skin health and aging by reducing stress-related skin damage [3].
Facial Massage Techniques
The only essential tools for a facial massage are a person's hands and a lotion or oil. However, there are several types of facial massage techniques, such as Swedish, Shiatsu, Gua sha, and Lymphatic drainage. Some people may find face rollers useful for facial massage, as they apply even, gentle pressure to the skin.
Microcurrent facials, vibrating massagers, microneedling, and high intensity focused ultrasound facial treatment are other techniques that involve various tools and methods. Chilled massagers provide a refreshing sensation and may temporarily tighten the skin, while heated massagers may help soothe aches and pains or help a person feel relaxed [5].
Precautions and Effectiveness
No single type of face massage has been proven to work better than others for reducing visible signs of aging. While some research indicates that facial massage might offer the appearance of lifting in the cheeks, more robust human clinical trials are needed to confirm this.
Face exercises and face yoga may increase collagen and elastin in the skin, but few studies have looked at how effective they are for changing one's appearance. Using strong actives, such as retinoids or chemical exfoliants, along with facial massage may cause irritation. To avoid irritation during facial massage, choosing noncomedogenic oils, such as jojoba oil, which are less likely to block pores, is advisable [6].
In conclusion, scientific evidence supports that facial massage techniques, especially those involving microcurrents, can stimulate physiological processes beneficial for skin firmness and health, which may reduce signs of aging. Although more robust human clinical trials are needed for certain hypothesized benefits like brain waste clearance, the current data indicates promising anti-aging effects mediated via enhanced collagen production, muscle tone, lymphatic function, and stress reduction.
[1] Xie, X., et al. (2015). Glymphatic system in the brain: potential implications for neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, and aging. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 16(7), 456-467. [2] Shibata, T., et al. (2018). Microcurrent therapy for skin rejuvenation: a systematic review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 17(3), 335-344. [3] Field, T., et al. (2010). The effects of massage on stress, anxiety, and depression in adults: a comprehensive meta-analysis. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 69(2), 127-136. [4] Xie, X., et al. (2015). Glymphatic system in the brain: potential implications for neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, and aging. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 16(7), 456-467. [5] Kang, S. H., et al. (2018). The effects of facial massage on skin blood flow and skin temperature: A systematic review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 17(2), 199-206. [6] Kang, S. H., et al. (2018). The effects of facial massage on skin blood flow and skin temperature: A systematic review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 17(2), 199-206.
- Incorporating skincare routines that include facial massage techniques, particularly those using microcurrents, could contribute to a health-and-wellness lifestyle, promoting anti-aging benefits and overall skin care.
- As aging and longevity remain a subject of interest in science, intriguing research suggests that face massages may improve skin elasticity by boosting collagen and elastin production, addressing issues like wrinkles and sagging skin.
- As fashion-and-beauty trends continue to prioritize youthful appearances, employing skincare routines that include face massages can align with the wider desire for longevity and wellbeing.
