Facial Rejuvenation Massage

These days I’m as concerned with staving off the signs of encroaching age as the next senescent Gen-Xer, but I want to maintain my youthful appearance without resorting to surgery or Botox injections for as long as possible. In my tireless research on the subject I’ve discovered the numerous benefits of various non-invasive skin care treatments that rejuvenate aging skin. Of course, my interest was piqued when I learned of a face-lift facial massage system put together by a licensed massage therapist here in D.C.

(Photo: ellecanada.com)

Combining the elements of three anti-aging massage methods that she’s studied, Lisa Schumacher of Balancentering has created a powerful anti-aging treatment that she calls Saving Face. I tried it out for myself and was surprised that I could see results (modest but noticeable) after just one treatment.

Saving Face blends the best of the Bellanina facelift massage method, the Burnham system of facial rejuvenation and traditional facial micro cupping. Each method brings specific benefits to your skin, and each one produces a distinctive feeling as it’s being performed.

The treatment

After gently cleansing my skin, Schumacher began the treatment with the light touch of the soothing yet energizing Burnham system. Developed by Dr. Linda Burnham, a naturopathic physician, this massage focuses on 12 major nerve points in the face and head. Following a carefully planned sequence (named the “butterfly sequence”) of patterned strokes and manipulation of pressure points, the nerve centers of the head are activated and healing energy is released throughout the body. Based in reflexology and nerve rejuvenation, the Burnham method awakens the body’s inner healing and rejuvenation.

Micro cupping was next. Many of you are no doubt familiar with cupping — a traditional Chinese treatment for various ailments that involves the application of glass cups to the skin. The suction creates a gentle vacuum that stimulates the lymphatic drainage and eliminates toxins. The same principles apply to facial micro cupping, but obviously the cups used are much smaller. And fear not, the micro-cups will leave nary a red mark on your face.

Micro cups for facial massage (Photo: beautifulonraw.com)

Facial micro cupping is popular in Europe and Asia, with good reason. It fights the signs of aging by improving circulation, reducing puffiness by draining stagnant fluids and toxins, and improving skin tone and texture. It supposedly works wonders in controlling acne and rosacea as well. It also relaxes tight facial and neck muscles, and softens the appearance of wrinkles. The treatment was comfortable — as its name implies, tiny “micro” cups that were used exerted extremely gentle pressure on the skin. At a few points along my jaw line the pressure intensified, which, as Schumacher explained, were areas of stagnation. She even worked around my eyes, which showed markedly reduced puffiness post-treatment

Facial micro-cupping (Photo: Christine Byer)

Now, on to the Bellanina facelift massage, which concluded the treatment. Created by aesthetician and massage therapist Nina Howard, this technique is based on the principles of acupressure and lymphatic drainage massage. It stimulates the metabolic processes to improve facial circulation and strengthen capillaries, cleanse the lymph system and clear the skin.  Pressing facial acupressure points activates the flow of  “qi” (life force or energy) throughout the body’s various meridians, which over time can result in firmer, clearer and more vibrant skin.

The massage was preceded by a deeply relaxing application of warm towels suffused in aromatherapy essences to open the pores and hydrate the skin. I must note that the botanically-based Bellanina skin care products used throughout the treatment were wonderful, and the facial finished with an application of the Bellanina signature Honeylift masque that left my skin feeling smooth and well, lifted.

The entire Saving Face facial lasted about an hour and 10 minutes and included a fabulous hand and foot massage as well. Although I saw an improvement in skin tone and lift around my eyes, you typically need at least four to six treatments for more lasting results. According to Schumacher, this treatment is perfect for people in their 30s and 40s who are starting to combat the first signs of aging. It can help you maintain your youthful complexion and hopefully, hold off on going under the knife indefinitely.

To learn more about facial rejuvenation massage contact Lisa Schumacher, LMT at www.balancentering.com or 202-244-9588.