Ready to try it? Unfortunately, it’s not just running your fingers up and down your face muscles hoping for results. You need to find the perfect face oil, serum or face cream to apply prior to the massage first. This is to ensure that your fingers will slide a lot more smoothly as you do the massage instead of just stretching bare skin.
Next, pick a method that works for you. As mentioned, there are now several ways to practice Japanese face massages. However, the most popular way to do it is the
Asahi method, usually cross-referenced as the late Japanese beautician
Yukuko Tanaka’s massage.
The massage involves a lot of upward and circular movements from the neck to the temples, as well as stimulating presses on the narrower corners of the face. The method is done leisurely, with the entire massage lasting from five to 10 minutes depending on your strokes.
I’ve been having trouble sleeping lately, which definitely affected how my skin looks. My skin looked noticeably dull, tired, and pale especially right after waking up. I’ve also trimmed my skincare routine to deal with breakouts.
After reading about the transformative results of the Japanese face massage, I decided to give it a try.
Here’s the truth: I’m a bit impatient about lengthy skincare methods. This made me wonder if I’ll finish testing this massage. At first it was a bit confusing because I have to keep referring to the video to remember the steps. But after three days or so, I started managing without constantly pausing and playing the video. In a week, I was able to do it almost on reflex even if I’m listening to music or watching a movie. Since mornings are typically busy for me, I do it at night.

(Photo from: Angélica Echeverry via Unsplash)