Say goodbye to plastic surgery: Myofascial massage will restore health to the body and youth to the skin

Age-related skin changes are a harsh reality that every person faces sooner or later. The appearance of wrinkles, loss of elasticity, changes in the oval of the face - this is an incomplete list of what the passing years bring with them. Cosmetology today has many ways to pause time and prolong youth. Most of them involve violating the integrity of the skin, which in itself is quite risky. An alternative to surgical interventions has become myofascial facial massage - a technique that involves influencing human muscles using manual manipulation.

The essence of the method

The main difference between the procedure and a regular massage is the effect not on the skin itself, but on the tissues located between the muscles. More precisely, on the connective tissue - fascia. The skin has a deep regenerative effect, which, by relaxing muscles, relieving tension, eliminating many aesthetic problems. Tension is relieved by working out trigger points - places where muscle spasms and tension are concentrated.

Functions of myofascia

Fascia (translated from Latin as “bandage”) is a sheath of dense connective fibers covering blood vessels, nerves, and organs. They are part of the structure of ligaments and tendons, providing attachment of muscles to bones, forming a kind of “case” around the muscles. The fascia is responsible for motor activity and takes on all the tension that arises. Main functions of myofascia:

• Muscle mobility, transmission of movement from them to bones;
• Supporting internal organs, maintaining their correct position;
• Protection of blood vessels and nerves located in muscle tissue.

Fascial dysfunction

If their functionality is impaired, the following occurs:

1. The muscles contract, the load on the fascia increases significantly;
2. Trying to support the skeleton, the fibers stretch or compress, changing their original shape;
3. Overexertion causes muscle spasms, which leads to damage to the fascia and the appearance of painful seals on them;
4. Due to metabolic disorders, the fascia does not receive the necessary water and oxygen - a person experiences a feeling of pain in the muscles.

As a result, inflammation in muscle fibers may develop and change, which can develop into a chronic phenomenon.

The massage procedure will improve the flow of lymph and blood, the fascia will return to its original shape, be freed from tension and stagnation, which will relieve the person from painful sensations.

How massage works

The impact of certain techniques on connective tissue leads to a significant improvement in physiological processes in the body:

• Muscle spasms are eliminated - the muscles acquire the correct shape, clamps and blocks go away;
• The oval of the face is corrected, asymmetry is eliminated, expression wrinkles are smoothed out;
• Blood circulation increases - as a result, metabolism and the supply of cells with oxygen and nutrients improves;
• Lymph flow accelerates - breakdown products are eliminated from the body faster,
• Improving complexion and skin condition;
• Excess fluid is removed, swelling is eliminated, pores are narrowed;
• The production of elastin and collagen increases;
• Tissue hydration improves - the skin is moisturized.

Efficiency of technology

The effectiveness of the myofascial massage procedure directly depends on the professionalism of the master. Skills, experience, competent reproduction of technology will give results:

• relieving muscle tension and pain;
• disappearance of dizziness, migraines;
• normalization of the emotional sphere;
• activation of hair growth, solving problems of the scalp;
• achieving skin and muscle tone;
• improvement of color and relief of integument;
• smoothing facial wrinkles;
• minimizing swelling, dark circles, congestion;
• elimination of sagging, asymmetry.

Efficiency largely depends on the initial condition of the skin, the “neglect” of destructive processes, existing health problems, and the patient’s age.

The following signs will indicate that it is useful to perform a course of myofascial massage:

• a swollen, deformed oval (double chin, jowls, drooping part of the face);
• age-related changes (wrinkles, sagging skin);
• weakness, decreased muscle tone;
• deterioration in the quality of appearance (swelling, change in skin color, loss of “freshness”).

Myofascial massage is considered a non-traditional therapeutic procedure. It is advisable to use this method after consulting a doctor.

Indications for use

Myofascial massage is not only a cosmetic, but also a therapeutic procedure that has a positive effect on the entire body. It is recommended when:

1. Swelling, deep wrinkles, sagging skin;
2. The need to correct the oval of the face, eliminate the double chin;
3. Rehabilitation after plastic surgery;
4. Headaches, migraines;
5. Muscle pain;
6. Recovery from diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
7. Diseases of the genitourinary system;
8. Ringing and pain in the ears, hearing loss.

The principle of myofascial massage

What is myofascial massage? It is a stretching and displacing effect on the skin, affecting the fascia. The spaces between muscles that are responsible for motor functions and their disorders not associated with congenital pathologies are called fascia.

The myofascial method arose from the work of physiologist Ide Rolf, which describes the theory of energetic influence on the skin through 11 myofascial meridians. Myofascia is a membrane that covers all blood vessels, organs, and nerve endings. They perform not only a trophic function, but also provide support for tissues, and are also responsible for disruption of work, activity and the occurrence of pain syndromes. During the massage, the functions of the fascia are restored, which leads to increased effective muscle function.

The effectiveness of massage is also manifested in:

• Reducing pain and muscle tension;
• Disappearance of dizziness;
• Reducing the level of tension in the blood vessels of the brain;
• Improving muscle tone - they become more flexible, elastic;
• Improving the condition of the skin surface (reduction or disappearance of wrinkles);
• Disappearance of dark circles under the eyes;
• Disappearance or significant reduction of the double chin;
• Improving the movement of biological fluids;
• Improving the condition of muscle fibers;
• Improving and forming a new facial contour.

Additionally, congestion and tension are eliminated, and free movement of muscles is improved during a myofascial massage session.

What is it: with uneven load on the muscles, pain occurs, the muscle membrane and the skin behind it are deformed. Massage can return them to normal.

The massage is based on:

• Working out the tendon frame and relieving tension in the scalp for reflex modification of the facial muscles;
• Impact on the soft tissues of the head to reduce the severity of wrinkles;
• Lymphatic drainage effect.

Myofascial technique is combined with any cosmetic procedure, increasing its effectiveness. The training course is designed for cosmetologists who have already familiarized themselves with the first stage of sculptural massage. This requirement is due to the fact that when performing MFC it is necessary to be able to determine the tone of muscle tissue, understand the anatomy and understand the difference in the types of training.

Myofascial and sculptural massage are independent procedures, but are often performed together: they complement each other perfectly and allow you to get quick results.

Indications for use

The effectiveness of massage depends on the level of training of the cosmetologist, age, individual skin characteristics, and sensitivity to procedures.

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Indications for myofascial facial massage are:

• Pronounced deposits of fat cells under the skin of the face and on the neck;
• Expression and age wrinkles;
• Enlarged pores;
• Swelling and discoloration of the skin;
• Loose, sagging skin;
• Weak muscles.

Often sessions are prescribed during the rehabilitation period after plastic surgery. To prevent skin aging, regular procedures are recommended after 30 years of age.

The preventive course consists of 10 sessions, and their number and frequency depend on individual indicators.

Contraindications

It is forbidden to start massage within a week after professional peeling. Also contraindications for sessions include:

• Cuperosis and herpes;
• Fragile, brittle vessels and vessels located close to the surface of the skin;
• Mechanical damage to the skin;
• Allergies;
• Inflammatory processes accompanied by elevated body temperature, indigestion;
• Presence of moles and papillomas;
• Increased blood pressure;
• Migraine.

If swelling is caused by diseases of the cardiovascular system, then the sessions will not be effective and will not eliminate the problem. If you have diagnosed cardiovascular diseases, before each session you must consult a doctor about the possibility of carrying out the procedure.

Contraindications

The myofascial massage procedure is absolutely harmless and is recommended even for children. However, there are a number of diseases that preclude the procedure.

• Oncological diseases;
• Open tuberculosis;
• Rash resulting from infectious diseases;
• Injuries of the musculoskeletal system;
• Head injuries, brain bleeding;
• Eczema, moles, papillomas on the face;
• Fever.

Before the procedure, a conversation with the patient is required. The master asks about his well-being, the presence of chronic diseases, and allergies. Only after a thorough study of each individual patient is an individual course of treatment techniques suitable for a particular case prescribed. The question of how many sessions need to be done is also decided for each individual.

Contraindications and side effects

Previously, we have already noted that the main disadvantage of the method of influence being studied is its list of contraindications. Next, we will directly acquaint you with the restrictions under which the manipulation system cannot be used in practice. These include:

• pyoderma;
• herpes;
• eczema;
• allergic rashes and abrasions on the treated skin;

• a large number of moles and papillomas;
• rosacea and various infectious diseases;
• thin and fragile vessels.

If you ignore these restrictions, you may encounter serious problems, from swelling to severe pain and irritation. Therefore, before using myofascial pressure at home, be sure to consult a specialist.

Main types. Execution technique

The session begins with cleansing the facial skin and removing any remaining makeup. Otherwise, oxygen will not be able to pass through the clogged pores, which will significantly reduce the effect of therapy. After this, the master proceeds directly to the procedure. Using precise, gentle movements, the massage therapist works on trigger points, removing blocks and clamps, restoring the natural position of the muscles. Several techniques are used:

• The relaxation and stretching method affects the fascia located very deeply. Both hands are involved. One lifts the skin, and the second moves it and the fascia until resistance is felt. The movements continue until the massaged tissues are completely relaxed;
• Vertical lifting - not only the skin, but also the connective tissue underneath it is lifted for a few seconds;
• Muscle fulling is lifting already relaxed muscles and moving them to the side.

The first session usually lasts no more than half an hour. Further, the duration of the exercise, as well as the intensity, increases. During the procedure, the master carefully monitors the patient’s condition, periodically asks him to change his position, and if the slightest ailment is detected, his actions stop. Each procedure makes the muscles more pliable, which greatly simplifies the process.

Massage of head, neck, face

Work with the head begins with its hairy part. Using light twisting movements, the master massages the temporal fascia and the area around the ears. Next, the patient's head is turned to the side. The thumb of the left hand is located on the temple, while the rest of it is on the scalp. The right palm is placed on the neck, rubbing and kneading the skin begins. Next, placing the index and middle fingers on the forehead, and the thumb at the temple, the master moves them towards each other and spreads them to the sides.

The fascia of the neck is numerous. In addition, it is necessary to act on them extremely carefully - here are the largest arteries and nerve endings that are easily injured. Therefore, influences on this zone include careful circular movements, rolling and displacement.

Work with the face begins with twisting the skin of the chin and lower jaw, gradually moving towards the line of the ears. The cheekbones are massaged using tension and twisting. The master stimulates the points located under the corners of the lips. This is followed by lifting and rolling back to the cheekbones and working out all facial wrinkles.

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How does the session work?

To feel calm and confident, the patient must understand what awaits him during the procedure:

1. A myofascial massage session always begins with a conversation. An experienced massage therapist will try to establish contact with the patient from the first minutes and create a warm atmosphere - because this is the only way you can get distracted and relax as much as possible.
2. The master will definitely ask about your well-being, existing problems, diseases and characteristics of the body.
3. The next stage is diagnostic. You will be asked to lie on your back, and the massage therapist will “examine” every centimeter of your face, scalp and neck with his hands, and determine the presence of muscle spasms and points of particular tension.
4. Treatment methods are selected for each patient. The most common techniques used are pressure, twisting or stretching.
5. Any manipulation is adjusted to the breathing rhythm: slow and calm inhalation and exhalation is carried out in five beats.

The first session lasts no more than 30 minutes. Each subsequent one becomes more intense and longer lasting. During the procedure, the master constantly monitors the patient’s condition and at the first symptoms of malaise or discomfort immediately stops working.

Basic techniques

Currently, there are three officially recognized massage techniques.

Methodology according to Tatyana Shubina

Inspired by oriental manual practices, physiotherapist Tatyana Shubina created a multi-stage massage technique that provides intensive treatment of the tendon helmet, skull and ear area. It is aimed at removing excess fluid, correcting the oval of the face, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. Due to the complexity of the impact technique, the technique is not widespread and is carried out only in specialized institutions.

Plasticizing massage

Specialists refer to SPA procedures. Aimed at combating the main signs of skin aging. Such as dark circles under the eyes, deformation of the oval face, double chin, facial wrinkles, drooping corners of the lips, “crow’s feet”. However, this is not only a cosmetic procedure. The technique helps fight migraines, surges in blood pressure, facilitates recovery after a stroke, relieves stress and nervous tension.

Releasing

Myofascial massage performed on the back. Indicated for cerebral palsy, scoliosis, intervertebral hernia, osteochondrosis and neuralgia.

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Rules for performing the procedure

Myofascial massage is characterized by its effect on the fascia (shells, muscle spaces). Not only the facial muscles are involved, the entire skull and neck are involved. The impact occurs by means of mechanical coupling.

The usual gliding is not performed. No cosmetic products are used during the massage. This provides a qualitative determination of the location of fibrotic phenomena, areas of lymph stagnation, and deep muscle “cords”.

The procedure, carried out according to all the rules, helps to improve the elasticity and flexibility of the fascia. Thanks to this, the muscles regain their ability to function at full strength.

Myofascial massage effectively relaxes, minimizes pain, and eliminates spasms. The effect is compatible with other cosmetic procedures that promote rejuvenation.

Attention! An important rule in performing the procedure is maintaining contact with the patient. It is expected to move the body position and normalize breathing. Competent palpation is required on the part of the fascial technique master. Knowledge of anatomy and hand sensitivity play an important role in achieving results.

The best effect can be achieved by performing a full myofascial massage. The procedure begins with an impact on the skull, the next area is the neck, proceeds to work with the facial muscles, gradually moves to the shoulders, paravertebral areas, and completes the massage with an effect on the lumbosacral region.

Massage at home

Despite the ongoing debate between supporters and opponents of self-massage, with regard to myofascial techniques, the number of the latter is much larger. Due to the complexity of the procedure and the need for training in physiology and anatomy, experts do not recommend performing the procedure at home. One wrong movement can significantly worsen the patient’s condition and cause serious harm to health.

However, with special devices - a ball, foam roller or roller - self-massage is still possible.

The main thing is to carefully study the rules of their use and self-massage lessons, and also avoid self-massaging the neck and collar area - this area should be entrusted to a specialist.

Contraindications for performing massage

Cuperosis is a contraindication to myofascial facial massage.
The procedure under consideration in each case has a positive effect and can indeed become an alternative to surgical intervention. But this does not mean that every woman will be able to use it.

There are clearly defined contraindications for myofascial massage:

• herpes, which is in the stage of exacerbation or remission;
• fragility of blood vessels, frequent bleeding;
• skin diseases: dermatitis, pustular rashes, dry and weeping eczema;
• any manifestation of allergy;
• a progressive inflammatory process accompanied by elevated body temperature.

In addition, the specialist will not allow the patient to undergo the procedure if there are large moles, multiple papillomas, signs of vascular disease (“stars”), or damage to the skin on his body.

Results of the procedure

Carrying out a massage by a specialist gives a long-lasting effect, which appears after the second procedure.

• Improves complexion;
• The pores are narrowed, the water balance of the skin is restored;
• An oval face is formed, the double chin is eliminated;
• The skin acquires firmness, elasticity, wrinkles are smoothed out;
• Metabolism improves, skin permeability increases;
• Headaches, stress, neuroses are reduced;
• The body tone increases and overall well-being improves.

Indications

It all depends on the condition of the skin and muscles on the face. A prerequisite for undergoing myofascial facial massage may be sagging skin, low muscle tone, swelling, very deep wrinkles, insufficient elasticity of the skin, the presence of signs of fatigue on the face, including unhealthy color, the presence of a double chin, tension in muscles located not only on the face, but also on the neck and so on.

The procedure after its execution brings the following effect:

• The facial muscles begin to function normally.
• The oval of the face becomes more aristocratic.
• If the muscles experienced spasms, they disappear.
• Wrinkles that are present in the corners of the eye become barely noticeable, and those wrinkles located in the nasolabial triangle and forehead area also partially or completely disappear.
• The problem of enlarged pores is solved, and all manifestations of a double chin are eliminated.
• Subcutaneous fat, which is an enemy in the process of losing weight, disappears after the procedure, and accordingly, the facial model becomes more beautiful.

Patient reviews

The cost of such a procedure in Russia ranges from 1 thousand to 3 thousand rubles. The price is considerable, considering that the full course involves at least five procedures. However, positive reviews and photos of clients who have experienced the positive effects of myofascial massage say the following:

“I used to be skeptical about massage, especially if it was cosmetic in nature. But several sessions of myofascial massage pleasantly surprised me with their results. The face is fresher, looks more toned, and the hated crow’s feet have finally disappeared.” Olga, 38 years old.

“Constant neck pain was my constant companion. Neither expensive ointments nor plasters helped. After completing a course of myofascial massage, I forgot about the problem, like a bad dream! The pain went away, and the reduction of the double chin became another pleasant bonus. The sensations during the massage were not pleasant, but it was worth it.” Anna is 40 years old.

“I’ve been thinking about Botox injections for a long time, but I was terribly afraid of the procedure. The cosmetologist advised me to try a plasticizing facial massage first. I don’t regret for a minute that I agreed. The result exceeded all my expectations. The complexion has improved, the skin is tightened, there are no bags under the eyes. At the same time, no pain or swelling! I recommend it to everyone who, like me, is afraid of operations.” Tatyana is 44 years old.

“The first impression caused negative emotions. There were painful sensations from the procedure, but no particular result was observed. A friend advised me to change the master. Progress was obvious. After the first procedure, I noticed positive dynamics, wrinkles around the eyes and mouth disappeared, the skin became more toned and fresh.” Irina is 41 years old.

Benefits and results of the procedure

An experienced massage therapist acts gently but confidently during the procedure, which contributes to the rapid restoration of the normal state of the tissues. This type of massage will help erase the traces of past decades from your face. As evidenced by the reviews of the majority of women who received anti-aging therapy sessions, a positive effect was noted after the first procedures. Since myofascial massage has a complex effect, after its implementation the following positive changes are observed:

• Muscle spasms disappear, and this returns the tissues to their correct shape, which helps eliminate facial asymmetry and smooth out its relief.

• Metabolic processes are activated, that is, tissues begin to receive more nutrients and oxygen.

• Increases blood circulation in the peripheral vascular network. This is a very useful action because it helps bring reserve resources into the work.

• Increases the speed of lymph flow, which stimulates cleansing processes. As a result, facial skin gains freshness and a healthy color.

• Swelling is eliminated due to the intensive removal of excess fluid from the tissues.

• Regeneration mechanisms are launched with renewed vigor, helping to quickly heal existing tissue damage.

• The contour of the face is clearly drawn. When muscles regain their normal level of elasticity, they straighten and become firm. As a result, beautiful lines of the oval face are formed.

To this list of useful actions it should be added that all of them together stimulate the synthesis of natural collagen - an element that ensures firmness and elasticity of the skin of the face and other parts of the body. After all, fascia literally permeates the entire human body. They are essentially a durable fastening material. Therefore, it is very important to keep these fabrics in good condition for as long as possible.

In beauty salons, masters perform myofascial massage of the face and head, which helps improve overall condition and get rid of constant migraines. It has been proven that this type of massage improves vision and normalizes cardiac activity. But the most important thing is that a course of 10-15 sessions helps you “look younger” by five years. Therefore, many cosmetologists believe that myofascial massage is not inferior in effectiveness to the circular facelift procedure.