4 Types of Facial Massage & How to Do Each One Properly

💡 4 types of facial massage meet modern tech — explore the KentDO Facial Massager in action!

What Are the 4 Types of Facial Massage?

The 4 types of facial massage include Effleurage, Gua Sha, Lymphatic Drainage, and Percussion. Each technique targets different needs—from relaxation to lifting. Knowing which one to use can transform your skin’s glow, tone, and tightness—without costly spa visits.

• Effleurage: Gentle, sweeping strokes to relax muscles and boost blood flow.
• Gua Sha: Traditional stone scraping to sculpt and lift.
• Lymphatic Drainage: Stimulates lymph flow to reduce puffiness and detox skin.
• Percussion: Rhythmic tapping to firm facial muscles and stimulate collagen.

Which style suits you best? Read on!

1. Classic Effleurage Massage

One of the foundational 5 facial massage movements, Effleurage is all about long, gentle strokes using your fingers or palms. This technique is ideal for beginners who want to relax facial tension, increase circulation, and prep the skin for product absorption.

How to Do It:

1. Apply a light facial oil or serum.
2. Use upward, sweeping strokes from chin to cheeks.
3. Repeat along the forehead, using both hands symmetrically.
4. Spend 5 minutes gently massaging daily.

Pair this with tools from the Skin and Beauty Care Devices collection for enhanced absorption and results.

2. Gua Sha Lifting

Rooted in ancient Chinese medicine and popular among 3 facial massage techniques for contouring, Gua Sha is a manual scraping method using flat-edged tools (often jade or rose quartz). It visibly lifts and detoxes when done consistently.

How to Use:

1. Apply serum or facial oil.
2. Hold the Gua Sha at a 15° angle and gently scrape upward from jaw to ear.
3. Continue from cheek to temple, under-eye to temple, and forehead to hairline.
4. Repeat each stroke 3–5 times.

💡 Learn how to combine Gua Sha with a facial home kit for sculpted results

3. Lymphatic Drainage Technique

Among the 9 facial massage techniques to stay young, lymphatic drainage is praised for its de-puffing and detox effects. It supports your body’s natural waste removal system and is especially helpful in the morning or after travel.

Steps to Follow:

1. Begin at the collarbone with light circular motions.
2. Move up to the jawline, using featherlight pressure.
3. Massage under cheekbones and around eyes toward temples.
4. End at the forehead, sweeping outwards.

This technique is best supported by anti-aging tools found in the Body Care and Health Devices collection.

4. Percussion Tapping Method

Percussion is a dynamic massage style that uses rhythmic tapping or light slapping with fingertips. It stimulates blood flow, enhances tone, and boosts elasticity—especially when paired with a device like the KentDO Facial Massager.

How to Tap Properly:

1. Relax your hands and use fingertips to tap cheeks, chin, and forehead.
2. Alternate hands quickly for 1–2 minutes.
3. Focus on problem areas like laugh lines or jaw tension.
4. Repeat daily or as part of your evening skincare routine.

How to Use a Facial Home Kit Effectively

A facial home kit is your all-in-one tool to elevate any of the 4 types of facial massage. These kits often combine microcurrent, LED therapy, or EMS (electrical muscle stimulation) with ergonomic designs that mimic pro-level techniques.

• Use 3x per week for lifting and toning.
• Always prep skin with serum or gel for better conductivity.
• Follow contours slowly to enhance lymphatic drainage.
• Clean device after each use to maintain hygiene.

For best results, explore tools under the Skin and Beauty Care Devices category.

💡 Ready to sculpt at home? KentDO blends the best facial massage techniques with modern skin-lifting tech

Quick Comparison Table

Mini-FAQ

How often should I do facial massage?

For best results, 2–3 times per week is ideal. Daily use of tools like the KentDO device can boost long-term lifting effects.

Is Gua Sha better than other facial massage techniques?

Gua Sha is excellent for contouring and lymphatic drainage, but it’s best paired with other techniques for complete anti-aging benefits.

Can I use my hands instead of a facial home kit?

Absolutely. Manual techniques work well, but a facial home kit enhances precision, efficiency, and long-term consistency—especially for busy lifestyles.

What facial massage helps most with aging?

The 9 facial massage techniques to stay young include lymphatic, Gua Sha, and percussion—targeting collagen stimulation, tension relief, and circulation all at once.