Facial yoga: massage techniques for the face

Far too rarely do we consciously carve out tranquil moments for beauty – moments where we pamper ourselves with an extensive care routine, where we deeply cleanse the skin and then nourish it with the right products and massages. Yet our skin always thanks us when we give it the occasional special treatment. This could be applying a revitalising exfoliator, for example, in conscious, circular movements, or perhaps a serum that enhances the nourishing properties of a cream.

The benefits of creams and serums go beyond their hydrating properties and high-quality active ingredients – the action of regularly massaging the face has been shown to reduce stress and have a positive impact on the skin’s texture. The power of touch plays an essential role in the Maria Galland Paris philosophy: it has been part of our approach to skin care since the brand was founded. Each of our signature treatments combines personalised skin care with a special massage technique.

Targeted facial massages and exercises naturally stimulate the muscles, skin, lymphatic system and connective tissue of the face – and are essential for achieving a radiant glow. For one thing, massaging warms the skin. This improves blood circulation and activates the skin’s natural functions – which, in turn, has a tightening, cleansing and soothing effect. A gentle facial massage also releases tension to leave the face looking noticeably more relaxed. In addition, the stroking motions and stimulated blood circulation produce a slight exfoliating effect, as they remove dead skin cells to reveal a rosy, youthful complexion. Lymphatic flow is also stimulated, which helps to remove congestion and fluids.

None at all. Although you can now find a variety of facial massage devices – like rollers and stones made of jade, rose quartz and stainless steel – our own hands are still the best tools for the job. The many receptors on our palms and fingertips make them extremely sensitive to touch, allowing pressure and shape to be individually adapted to your own skin, connective tissue and muscles.

Ideally, every day. Try incorporating a facial massage into your morning or evening skincare routine. The evening in particular is the perfect time for an anti-ageing massage. It helps facial redness to subside and skincare products to take maximum effect while you sleep. After all, it is during the night that our skin regenerates. Another beneficial side-effect of an evening facial massage is that it helps you relax. This has a positive impact on your sleep, which in turn leaves your skin looking even more radiant in the morning.

Always wash your hands, cleanse your face and treat the skin to an oil or cream before performing a facial massage. This helps your fingers glide more easily over the areas you are massaging and works the products deeper into the skin. For the best results, apply your creams, serums and oils in a “V” shape – i.e., in an upwards motion from the middle of the face outwards. Just moments after, you will notice how the skin looks plumper and rosier and the muscles are more relaxed – just like you.

To achieve the best results with maximum (anti-ageing) effects, we recommend regular visits to our beauty institutes for a professional treatment that includes a facial massage. This is because our beauticians work with specially developed salon products that are particularly effective. They combine these products with an intensive massage that works additional muscle groups connected to the entire facial musculature, effectively tightening the skin.

All Maria Galland salon treatments involve unique massage techniques that have been specially developed for each step of the treatment. Our founder was of the belief that every woman has her own intrinsic energy – her énergie de beauté – that makes her beautiful and radiant. The treatments are therefore all based on a unique combination of personalised skin care paired with the power of touch, kinetic energy and targeted manual therapy.

During the treatment, all skin zones are individually massaged with the appropriate products. One product may be gently patted in, while another is applied with an intensive massage. The neck and décolleté are always included. As soon as the skin care has been applied and worked in, you can feel the skin become active. Massages at a Maria Galland Institute are also always performed from the centre outwards and in an upwards motion. This not only enhances the end result, but makes the skin feel firmer even during application. The intensive petrissage (kneading massage) technique is particularly effective. Here, the beautician uses rolling movements on the skin and connective tissue.