4 Modalities to Master for a Holistic Facial

As skin care professionals, it's common for a facial treatment to include a combination of cleansing, exfoliation, masking and moisturizing. However, choosing a holistic approach in the treatment room can provide a deeper, more comprehensive skin care experience for clients. So, what distinguishes this alternative method?

Making a Facial Holistic

While all facials aim to calm the central nervous system, reduce inflammation, revitalize the skin and more, estheticians who incorporate holistic methods focus on tailoring their approach to each client's lifestyle and goals. Customized treatments, integrating a diverse range of organic ingredients and holistic modalities, are often crafted per individual. In a holistic facial, addressing the underlying causes of skin issues, rather than offering temporary or “quick-fix” solutions is a central focus.

The key components of using holistic modalities often involve drawing from ancient practices to rejuvenate the skin such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). For example, instead of relying primarily on injections or fillers, a holistic stance may emphasize in-depth facial massage techniques. These techniques can yield the same desired result of achieving firmer and more sculpted facial features. Another significant difference lies in the preference for organic and natural products over intensive chemical peels and extractions.

Let’s delve further into holistic facial treatments by understanding some commonly used modern modalities and ancient practices.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage 

The lymphatic system, which is considered the “second” circulatory system, is the sanitation and recycling system of the body. Since it is not propelled by a master pump, like the heart, its flow relies on the pulsing of nearby arteries, skeletal muscles and breathing.

Functions of the lymphatic system can be improved with manual lymphatic drainage (MLD). MLD is a form of gentle massage, which encourages the movement of lymph fluids. It’s a technique with soft, skin-stretching movements. These rhythmic, downward movements transport lymphatic fluid from specific areas to increase lymph flow and eliminate toxins, fluids and waste naturally. Additionally, receiving MLD can relieve stress, anxiety and tension. Self-massage, breathwork and exercise are important for healthy lymphatic support too.

Related: Gua Sha, Gemstones & More Holistic Tools for Masking

1. Gua Sha

A gua sha routine involves using a smooth-edged tool to gently glide over areas such as the jawline, cheekbones, chin and neck. It helps release tight facial muscles and can give the appearance of a more sculpted face with consistent use.

Using a gua sha stone is an ancient technique known for moving stagnation out of the skin and allowing nourishment to flow back in. This TCM practice is also known as scraping or spooning. It has been proven to increase microcirculation, lift and firm the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and open detoxification channels, resulting in a glowing complexion.

2. Microcurrent

Microcurrent is one of the few modalities used in professional skin care to achieve great results without being invasive or requiring injury to the skin to generate a healing response. It’s often described as a natural alternative to surgical facelifts and Botox or a “workout” for the face. Microcurrent has been around for decades and used in physical therapy. Physical therapists have used microcurrent treatments since the 1970s for pain relief and even facial paralysis conditions such as Bell’s palsy.

One of the primary benefits associated with microcurrent is its facial lifting and toning results. This unique modality works with the natural function of the body to re-energize the facial skin and muscles from a cellular level.

It uses low-voltage electricity, delivered through two handheld prongs, which targets adenosine triphosphate (ATP) cell growth and tightens muscles and connective tissues of the face. It’s a relaxing treatment accompanied by a slight buzzing sensation which is the contraction of facial muscles. As a result, it stimulates key cellular activities such as collagen production, lymphatic drainage, skin lifting and texture-smoothing.

3. LED Devices

Light has always been essential to human health, but this isn’t a new discovery. Specifically, LED (light-emitting diode) red light penetrates the top layer of skin and the dermis stimulating natural healing and restoration capabilities. The dermis is where collagen, elastin and other essential proteins reside.

Red light photons, which are light wavelengths, are absorbed by cells and converted into energy. The energy produced can stimulate the production of collagen, elastin and adenosine triphosphate which creates more fuel for all of the cells to use. With more energy, cells can do their work more efficiently, such as repairing skin, boosting new cell growth and enhancing restoration. It increases oxygenation to the skin, which improves circulation while healing damaged tissue.

It’s beneficial for the whole body too! Red light therapy can be used to treat muscle and joint pain, acute or chronic, and reduce swelling caused by harmful oxidative stress. Unlike ultraviolet rays from the sun, which damage the DNA of skin cells, light emitted in this spectrum is perfectly safe. Since its effects happen deep inside at the cellular level, no tanning or burning happens when exposed to red light.

4. Facial Cupping

Cupping, which is rooted in Chinese and Egyptian traditions, entails using heated glass cups to relax muscles, typically administered by estheticians or acupuncturists. It generates suction by drawing blood to the surface and stimulating healthy circulation. In facial cupping, smaller, gentler cups are utilized for the delicate facial tissue. While body cupping prioritizes pain relief, facial cupping enhances blood circulation, providing beauty benefits such as diminished puffiness, healthy aging effects and a more vibrant complexion.

Other facial cupping advantages include enhanced skin quality, muscle relaxation and various aesthetic improvements such as minimizing imperfections and toning specific areas. This non-invasive and needle-free holistic approach supports the body with minimal recovery time.

The Art of a Holistic Facial

A holistic approach to facial treatments goes beyond conventional skin care. Holistic facials represent an integrative way to achieve radiant and healthy skin while working naturally with the body. By combining modern modalities and ancient practices, such as manual lymphatic drainage, gua sha, microcurrent, LED and facial cupping, these treatments offer a comprehensive skin care experience for all.

Megan Jones is a licensed esthetician and writer with a heart for teaching skin health, self-love, and holistic living. Her interest in skin care began over a decade ago when she experienced chronic acne for over 5 years. This challenged Megan to search deeper into understanding how the skin functions. Megan currently nurtures faces at Clove Skin Studio in Kansas City, MO. Her enthusiasm for wellness, creativity, and beauty ensures a wholesome facial experience for everyone.