Massage Notes
Massage Notes
A. Definition
One of the oldest therapeutic methods, dating back thousands of years.
Involves manual or mechanical manipulation by rubbing, kneading, or other methods.
Stimulates metabolism and circulation; assists in product absorption and pain relief.
B. Benefits of Facial Massage
Relaxes client and facial muscles.
Stimulates blood and lymph circulation.
Improves metabolism and activates sluggish skin.
Helps muscle tone.
Cleanses skin of impurities and softens sebum.
Sloughs off dead skin cells.
Enhances product absorption.
Relieves muscle tension and pain.
Provides a sense of well-being.
II. Incorporating Massage During Facials
A. Massage Factors
Facility protocols.
Product manufacturer protocols.
Client's skin analysis.
Treatment focus.
B. Length of Massage
Approximately 10 to 15 minutes, distinguishing professional treatment from home-care regimens.
C. Professional Massage
Movements must flow consistently.
Hand movements should be smooth, gliding easily.
Technician must maintain focus.
Appropriate pressure must be maintained.
Massage insertion to origin and vice versa.
III. Massage Contraindications
A. Alternatives to Massage
Substituting another step.
Leaving a mask on longer.
Light acupressure massage.
B. Contraindications
Contagious diseases
Inflamed acne
Sunburn
Sensitive skin
Open lesions
Skin disorders
Severe redness
Severe and uncontrolled hypertension
C. Former Contraindications
It is now acceptable to massage clients with high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, or circulatory conditions under physician care.
D. Scope of Practice
Limited to face, neck, shoulders, and décolleté; must refer to licensing regulations.
IV. Massage Movements
A. Effleurage
Soft, continuous stroking movement.
Applied with fingers and palms.
Slow and rhythmic movement; used to begin and end sessions.
Suitable for forehead, face, scalp, back, shoulders, neck, chest, arms, and hands.
B. Pétrissage
Kneading movement stimulating underlying tissues.
Skin is grasped between thumb and forefinger.
Performs squeezing, rolling, and pinching with light, firm pressure.
Activates circulation and sluggish skin.
C. Friction
Rubbing movement stimulates circulation and glandular activity.
Circular movements used on scalp, arms, and hands.
D. Friction Movements
Chucking
Rolling
Wringing
E. Tapotement
Good for toning; most stimulating.
Beneficial for sluggish skin.
Fingertips brought down against skin rapidly.
F. Vibration
Rapid shaking movement.
Balls of fingertips pressed firmly on application point.
V. Dr. Jacquet
A. The Movement
Begins with a slight twisting movement followed by kneading on cheeks for taut skin.
VI. Alternative Massage Techniques
A. Acupressure
B. Shiatsu
C. Pressure Point Massage
D. Aromatherapy Massage
E. Manual Lymph Drainage
F. Foot Reflexology
VII. Basic Facial Massage
A. Tips and Techniques
Repeat movements 3 to 6 times.
Use both hands simultaneously.
Slide hands back to starting point to repeat movements.
Maintain an even tempo to promote relaxation.
Do not lift hands from face once massage has begun.
Feather off at the end.
Massage from insertion to origin.
Apply direct pressure toward the heart.
B. Cleansing Massage
More vigorous movement using a non-penetrating product.
C. Chest, Shoulder, and Neck Manipulations
Involves chest and upper back movement.
Focus on shoulder massage.
D. Relaxation Tips
Do not talk to clients during massage.
Encourage clients to relax.
Speak in a quiet voice when necessary.
Minimize distractions.
Check client's comfort.
Inquire about pressure preference.
Educate clients about the procedure.
Create a relaxing ambience.
E. What Not to Do
Maintain offensive breath or body odor.
Avoid rough, cold hands or ragged nails.
Prevent product from getting in eyes.
Ensure towels are not too hot or cold.
VIII. Practical Procedures
Students should refer to the textbook for step-by-step procedures; notify when practical applications will occur.