Regular facial massage can make a huge difference to our skin. Not only does it allow you a moment to unwind and relax but, as expert facialist Michaella Bolder says, 'it's the secret to tighter facial muscles, a more contoured face and that sought after glow.' For many skincare experts, not a day will go past without a few moments dedicated to facial massage and it’s a top recommendation for anyone who wants to boost their overall skin health. 'Using facial massage techniques at home for 10 minutes a day will encourage fresh blood circulation, stimulate the muscles and collagen supplies while improving the general appearance of the skin,' adds Bolder.
International aesthetician, Nichola Joss, who’s worked with the likes of Meghan Markle and Gisele Bundchen also swears by facial massage and it’s something that she incorporates into her own daily routine. While there’s no mistaking the power of our hands in facial massage, there are myriad tools and gadgets out there that can really dial it up, working alongside our hands to deliver salon-worthy results. For our pick of the best massagers out there (as well as the main benefits), scroll on down.
Face Massage Benefits
‘The main benefit of daily facial massage is the removal of tension and stress in muscle tissue,’ says Joss. If you’ve ever experienced a facial in-salon (especially in the hands of Joss), you’ll be all too familiar with the relaxed state it induces – as if all your stress has melted away, and the same can be done at-home. ‘Massage will also remove toxins, help to drain and eliminate puffiness from fluid retention as well as improving blood circulation,’ adds Joss. This increased blow flow will bring more oxygen and nutrients to the skin, boosting radiance and glow.
‘As for our eyes, massaging this area will improve surface texture and tone while keeping the eyes bright and sparkly.’ When it comes to tools, Joss suggests incorporating a Gua Sha for those trickier areas such as eyebrow muscles, nasolabial folds, deep set lines and the jawline – ‘a Gua Sha will really work out these stubborn, heavy areas.’
Watch: How To Do A Facial Massage At Home With A Gua Sha Tool
With roots in Chinese medicine, Gua Sha was traditionally used to relieve acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain, reduce inflammation and improve circulation. The tool is now often used as part of a facial treatment to take down puffiness and sculpt the skin. Here, Face Gym aesthetician Madalaina Conti shows us how to relieve tension using a Gua Sha and your favourite face oil.
SHOP: The Best Face Massagers
Best Face Massagers - Grazia
1 of 8Joanna Czech Facial Massager, £178
Experience the myriad benefits of Joanna Czech's signature facial at home with her facial massager. How to use: Designed to be rolled along the surface of the skin, this tool will take down puffiness, stimulate drainage while lifting and toning. Top tip? Apply your favourite serum first as the rolling action will help push the product deeper into your skin.
2 of 8Nurse Jamie UpLift Facial Massaging Beauty Roller, £55
This unique hexagonal barrel is encrusted with 24 massaging stones to tone and tighten skin. It's a bit hit among the A-list circuit (Khloe Kardashian called it a 'magic wand'). How to use: The tool is designed to be rolled upwards and outwards using light to medium pressure.
3 of 8Teresa Tarmey Gold-Plated Massage Tool, £80
Seriously luxe, this gold-plated facial massager doesn't just look the part but it acts the part too with its vibrating T-bar wand that melts away tension and works your product into the skin. How to use: Gently use the tool to massage your face in an upwards direction.
4 of 8Sarah Chapman The Facialift, £30
An easy-to-use tool that delivers notable results. How to use: Simply push the wishbone-shaped handle to roll the massage nodules along the contours of your face, releasing tension and encouraging lymphatic drainage. With regular use, skin looks healthier and brighter.
5 of 8Wild Source Jade Gua Sha, £28
Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, the Gua Sha tool is designed to release stress and tension that manifests in the facial muscles. It works by increasing blow flow and stimulating lymphatic drainage, leaving skin smooth, toned and brighter after regular use. How to use: Glide the tool from the centre of the face outwards, using sweeping motions. Use along the jawline, down the side of the neck and across the contours of the face.
6 of 8The Body Shop Facial Stimulator, £8
For a budget-friendly option, turn your face to this brilliant tool from The Body Shop. The little spikes will help your skincare to work harder and boost circulation for a healthy glow.How to use: Roll across your face after moisturising.
7 of 8Herbivore Jade Facial Roller, £26
Face rolling has been used in China for an age to rejuvenate skin and de-stress and is a great way to elevate your skincare routine. The rolling motion helps reduce puffiness, ease tension and encourage lymphatic drainage. How to use: Apply an oil or serum before rolling in an outwards direction from the centre of the face. The smaller roller is designed for the delicate eye area. Oh and for an extra skin boost, place it in the fridge the night before.
8 of 8Face Gym Gold Derma Roller, £40
This micro roller has a textured surface that pairs perfectly with a skincare oil to increase product absorption while also stimulating collagen and elastin fibres in your face.How to use: Apply a skincare oil, roll and repeat. Use morning and/or evening to improve circulation.
READ MORE: 11 Best Facial Cleansing Brushes To Boost Your Skincare Routine