How to properly apply cream to your face along massage lines

Massage lines: essence and meaning

Massage lines are collagen fibers along which lymph flows.

In cosmetology and dermatology, these specific lines are called “Langer lines”. The name goes back to the work of an old school German anatomist. In 1861, he described their properties and topography in his work “On the anatomy and physiology of the skin. On the splitting of the skin." Langer systematized and presented to the scientific world data on all kinds of collagen bundles that lie deep in the skin and impart elasticity to the area in which they lie.

There is another important property of such accumulations: lymph moves along these conventional lines.

The location and orientation of the fibers in Langer's lines are constant: they are oriented perpendicular to the muscle fibers. The greatest concentration of lines is in the areas of natural folds of the skin. Their longitudinal strength is three times greater than the transverse strength.

Collagen is the main component of connective tissue. It makes up 25% to 45% of the whole body's proteins. Today, 28 types of collagen are known; more than 40 genes are involved in its coding.

Karl Langer's hypothesis was confirmed by the research of the Irish physiologist from Dublin, Professor Ashlin Ni Anned.

To obtain the effect of a cosmetic massage, the importance of such collagen lines is difficult to overestimate: movements performed along them significantly increase the effectiveness of massage techniques. On the contrary, performing a massage across these accumulations leads to sagging of the skin, making it less elastic. By carrying out the procedure only in the morning and evening, you can perform erroneous harmful techniques 730 times a year.

After 35 years, collagen begins to lose its properties, and the elasticity of the skin and connective tissue rapidly decreases. Therefore, massage is necessary.

Direction and location of Langer lines

The most significant area for women that requires cosmetic care is the face. Many people understand intuitively how to massage it, listening to their tactile sensations. To such knowledge it is worth adding time-tested classic lines. They are subject to a single principle: the fibers are directed from bottom to top and from the center to the periphery.

Face lines:

• from the center of the chin - to the lower edge of the earlobes;
• from the depression above the upper lip - to the middle of the outer ear;
• from the wings of the nose at the beginning of the nasolabial fold - to the upper tips of the ears.
• from the middle of the bridge of the nose - to the temples, along the eye socket;
• from the tip of the nose - up the bridge of the nose
• from the outer corner of the lower eyelid - to the inner corner;
• from the inner corner of the upper eyelid to the outer.

Lines on the forehead:

• from the bridge of the nose - along the brow ridges to the temples;
• from the bridge of the nose, along the center line of the forehead - to the line where hair begins to grow.

Lines on the neck and décolleté:

• from the center of the chest - top in an arc, along the collarbone area;
• along the front surface of the neck - up to the chin;
• along the side surfaces of the neck - to the ear area and to the base of the skull.

Withering and loss of skin elasticity in these three zones is a fairly common phenomenon. This is due to age-related changes in the body and many years of active facial expressions. Women with dry skin are especially susceptible to this state of affairs.

Langer lines are easy to find empirically. You will need a mirror. On a small area of ​​the face, you need to slightly squeeze the skin, first along and then across. The lines are located where the fold is formed.

Forehead

The problem of all anxious women is like a forehead living its own life with horizontal wrinkles from eternal surprise or a vertical indentation between the eyebrows that has arisen due to anxiety and fatigue. To reduce the appearance of wrinkles, apply a small amount of cream directly to the center of the forehead, and then smear it towards the temples. The movements of your hands should seem to outline the shape of the eyebrows. It is important not to stretch the thin skin of the forehead and alternate hands: it is forbidden to pull the skin with the fingers of both hands in opposite directions.

Procedure for facial massage

Among the various types of massage, the most popular is classic cosmetic massage. Its tasks are reduced to maintaining a healthy appearance and skin tone. As a rule, it is carried out twice: at the beginning of the day and at night. A combination of massage movements and special care products works ideally. In the morning, various tonic and protective compositions are good, and before bed - nutritional mixtures.

Massage along Langer's lines gives the following results:

• skin tightening and stabilization of the resulting facial contour;
• normalization of lymph outflow;
• optimization of nutrient supply and innervation of the skin;
• increasing skin firmness and elasticity;
• disappearance of facial and age-related folds;
• stopping the appearance of new wrinkles.

Unlike professional therapeutic and plastic types of massage, classical techniques can be performed by any woman.

If the massage is carried out without applying creams, special oils can be used to enhance the effect. Walnut and apricot oils are good for all skin types. Avocado or wheat germ oil is suitable for dry skin. For normal use olive oil. For oily people - oil based on St. John's wort or jojoba.

Methods and rules for using cream for skin rejuvenation and treatment

Where should a facial massage begin?

First of all, you need to prepare your skin for massage using a few simple steps:

1. The most important thing is that your face must be cleansed.
   In this case, water washing is not suitable; tonic or milk should be used for cleaning.
2. Then the cream is spread over dry skin
   using massage lines on the face and neck. The technique of applying the cream is neat and gentle. A little trick: warm cream is absorbed better, so first you need to hold it in your palms for a while.
3. After this, the cream is applied in one layer.
   If it suddenly turns out that too much cream was applied, then it should be removed with a napkin.
4. To consolidate, it is useful to complete the massage with light touches of your fingers
   to your face. Blood circulation will improve, and the product will begin to act faster. Of course, your hands must be clean.

For the greatest effectiveness of cosmetics, you need to take into account the natural biological rhythms of the skin.

The needs of our skin change throughout the day and are divided into periods:

It is also necessary to take into account that how much cream you need to apply depends on your skin type:

Self-massage technique for the face from Elena Zemskova

Elena Zemskova is the founder and director of the Moscow school “Chiromassage IQ”. Her methods are based on the latest advances in the field of anatomy, neurology and psychology. The school has representative offices in Russia, Israel, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia.

According to Elena’s method, massage is carried out in several stages:

1. Soft stroking, leading to activation of the nervous system, transmitting excitement to the vascular and muscle tissue of the massaged area.
2. Kneading the deeper layers with your fingertips to influence the lymphatic and blood vessels.
3. Final passes with the phalanges of the fingers to improve the functioning of the muscular system.

Skin activation is carried out exclusively through massage lines. The movements are performed rhythmically, without strong pressure, avoiding pain. After working through the zone, the movement is fixed at the end of the line for 1-2 seconds.

The school offers three types of facial massage. The first is a short universal express lifting that allows you to quickly restore tone. The second is differentiated corrective massage. The third is decongestant lymphatic self-massage.

Basic rules for performing self-massage

The procedure is carried out on previously cleansed skin. The preparation is thorough, the washing movements correspond to the location of the massage lines. Clean covers are treated with a suitable cream (oil). Products with the most natural component composition are preferred.

Before performing the movements of the main technique, the skin is warmed up: light stroking is performed, alternating with pats. Actions are performed taking into account the location of the massage lines. When performing the basic technique, use:

• stroking;
• trituration;
• kneading;
• pat;
• vibration.

The sequence of techniques is followed (maximum efficiency is achieved). The strength of the impact is adjusted individually. There is a dependence on individual characteristics, the problem being solved, and the chosen massage technique.

While performing the procedure, take a comfortable position. Sitting in front of a mirror is the best option. Before the session, you need to relax and continue to maintain your posture. Movements during operation are light and smooth. They work with the pads of the fingers, less often with the palms, or the edge of the hand. Sometimes the participation of a massager is required. The brushes relax, the force of impact is regulated.

Regular implementation of procedures will help you achieve results. Manipulations take 5–15 minutes. An intensive massage course consists of 10–20 sessions. Procedures are performed daily (skipping 1–3 days). Next, they maintain the achievements by treating the skin 1-2 times a week. Self-massage sessions can be performed daily while using cosmetics at home.

Knowing where the massage lines are and following them while caring for your skin is important for maintaining a decent appearance and independently modeling your appearance. Following the rules will help preserve the picture for a long time. It’s easy and useful to get acquainted with the movement pattern, remember the principle of operation, and apply knowledge in practice.

How to properly apply cream to face and neck

The cream is applied to clean, warm and slightly damp skin. Clean the massaged area with micellar water, hydrophilic oil, mousses and lotions, and two-phase products. Vitamin tonic is suitable for rinsing. Before performing the massage, part of the nourishing care composition is rubbed into the fingertips.

The amount of product applied is selected individually. An insufficient dose will not be effective, an excessive dose will clog the skin pores and create a specific film. Special delicate creams are used to care for the eye area; the décolleté area can be treated with regular body cream. In this area, massage is done by lightly tapping with the ring fingers.

After applying the cream, you need to let the product absorb. Usually 15-20 minutes are enough for this.

Features of applying different types of creams

Let's figure out how to properly use face cream depending on the purpose of the product.

Moisturizing

Necessary for any skin type for care, preservation of beauty and youth. Selected strictly according to skin type.

In what cases is it necessary to use:

• Dryness;
• The appearance of facial wrinkles;
• Dulling of complexion;
• Presence of folds.

Moisturizers should be used with caution. Frequent and prolonged use affects natural hydration, which can lead to dryness and early appearance of wrinkles.

If the skin does not suffer from dehydration and its condition is normal, then it is better not to apply it again. Age creams are used with special care.

As previously mentioned, such products must be applied in advance before going outside at any time of the year.

Moisturizers include:

• Tonics;
• Moisturizing gels;
• Creams;
• Masks;
• Serums.

It is best to combine moisturizers if hydration is required. The easiest product is a moisturizing gel; it can be used every day, preferably during the daytime. At night, using nourishing creams is as effective as possible. The use of natural cosmetics is a win-win choice for solving skin problems.

Sun protection

The harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation can be minimized by using a universal sun protection product - sunscreen. How to properly apply sunscreen to your face?

It contains substances such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide or chemicals that play the role of reflection and protection from sunlight. The research on how harmful these substances are to your skin is sketchy, so choose your products with caution.

According to experts, using any protective cream is better than not using it at all. Efficiency is determined by the SPF level, which should be at least 15, and ideally SPF 30.

It is recommended to apply the cream every two hours, as well as after each water procedure.

Fatty

Fat cream contains fats and fatty components that have the properties of restoration, moisturizing, nutrition, regeneration, etc.

It is used in case of the following problems:

• Dryness and lack of hydration;
• Itching;
• Inflammation;
• Feeling of tightness.

It has a thick, dense consistency, which is a barrier against the influence of environmental aggressors.

Hormones and perfumes in the composition should be avoided. Use at night leads to clogging of the skin, which limits its breathing and elimination of toxins. Therefore, it is better to use it during the daytime, especially in cold weather. Be sure to do it in advance before going out into the frosty street.

We suggest you read: Burn on the face from cream: how to treat a chemical burn on the face

If your skin suffers from acne in winter, then in cold weather the problems can only worsen. In this case, it is better to carry out the procedure for applying a rich cream several hours before going out into the wind and frost. When used correctly, applying a rich cream will improve the condition of dry skin and protect it from exposure to harsh weather conditions.

Tonal

Foundation is used to give the skin a perfect look. Allows you to hide minor imperfections, redness and pimples.

However, it should not be abused both from an aesthetic and cosmetological point of view.

Important. The cream must be selected according to your skin type, otherwise it is absolutely useless and will only spoil your impressions.

How to apply foundation correctly?

In addition to its cosmetic function, foundation acts as protection against factors such as frost, sun, wind, dust, and also moisturizes and nourishes the skin, but there are also disadvantages to frequent use of foundation.

Often, its use leads to dry skin and the appearance of wrinkles, and can cause the appearance of blackheads. It is necessary to regularly cleanse your face with special scrubs and select really high-quality products, or better yet, consult a cosmetologist.

The cream, of course, copes well with its purpose - it tones the skin and gives it an even appearance, but due to the dense coating, the penetration of oxygen is difficult, and the skin does not breathe well. Use lighter textures, BB creams, and products with reflective particles for daily use. And don't forget about cleansing and moisturizing.

Cleaning

As the name suggests, a cleansing cream is designed to cleanse the skin of impurities. It contains minerals that can dry out the skin. It does not have moisturizing or nutritional properties as such, so after such a product it is necessary to use additional moisturizing.

Mainly used to remove makeup and other impurities, especially around the eyes. Most suitable for those with normal to combination skin.

Cream powder

A very versatile product that combines the properties of both powder and foundation. It has a mattifying effect, which will especially appeal to those with oily skin.

Also ideal for combination skin, but for those with dry skin it may still create discomfort.

Cream powder is a revolutionary product with which you can create the perfect makeup, but, as with all cosmetic products, it must be applied correctly and carefully selected for your facial skin type.

Bleaching

Whitening cream is a lifesaver for those who are concerned about skin imperfections such as freckles and age spots. The effect of the cream is achieved by reducing the level of melanin production, which is associated with the phenomenon of skin pigmentation.

The cream allows you to rid the skin of keratinized particles, which speeds up the process of skin renewal, removing melanin from it and whitening it. An important property of the cream is also its intense hydration, which helps reduce the appearance of pigment that forms on skin with moisture deficiency. If you use this cream correctly, it will only benefit your skin.

Important. When using a whitening cream, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, as the influence of its rays increases the synthesis of melanin. Apply carefully, avoiding contact with healthy areas of the skin.

When the use of cream is prohibited:

• During pregnancy;
• If the skin is sensitive to the components of the cream;
• If allergic reactions occur.

Before applying the cream, it is better to check the skin reaction in a separate area.

Depending on the time of day, day and night creams are used.

Day

The most important property of a day cream is protection. It moisturizes the skin and prevents loss of natural moisture.

The difference between a day cream and a night cream is in its structure. It is low in fat and high in moisture. Apply in the morning after cleansing the skin at least half an hour before going outside.

In winter, there are increased demands on day cream; it should be more nourishing and better applied a few hours before going out.

Night

Night cream is designed to nourish, soften and restore. It is usually fattier and heavier compared to others.

Recommended for use after 25 years. Therefore, it is good to select such a remedy according to age. Those with very dry skin will also benefit from a night cream; it should contain the necessary vitamins for restoration and nutrition, such as A, D, E, F, as well as lecithin and cholesterol.

How to properly apply night face cream?

Apply at least an hour before bedtime after removing makeup and cleansing the skin.

The neck area also needs nutrition and hydration, but for some reason it is not given due attention, but a woman’s neck is the personification of femininity and grace.

Moisturizers are applied to this area along massage lines from bottom to top from the collarbones and shoulders.

Around the eyes, lines go from the outer corner of the eye to the inner, then to the area of ​​the upper eyelid and again to the outer corner of the eye. This most delicate area deserves the most careful care.

For the skin around the eyes, specially developed creams are used to provide special protection for particularly sensitive skin. Only smooth and careful movements can reduce the formation of facial wrinkles and stretch marks. It is especially important to pay attention to this for young girls in order to delay skin aging for as long as possible. The choice of eye care product is based on the problem that needs to be eliminated, age and skin type.

Be sure to select all products individually for your skin type.

Now there are all kinds of testing methods if any difficulties arise. It is best to purchase products through a pharmacy chain, as they contain a more gentle composition with a minimum of allergens. It is best if the product contains natural ingredients. It is worth paying attention to the expiration date and storage conditions, as well as the annotation, the language of which should be clear to you.

Can facial massage be harmful?

Contraindications for the procedure are:

• allergic or infectious skin diseases: herpes, dermatitis, eczema;
• inflammatory processes in the throat, nasopharynx, ear;
• high fragility of the walls of peripheral vessels;
• malignant neoplasms in the massage area;
• disruption of lymph flow and inflammation of the lymph nodes;
• decreased intracranial pressure;
• skin fatigue after microdermabrasion or deep peeling.

Skin care for the face, décolleté and neck for women is a pressing task that requires a serious and thoughtful approach. When performing a daily cosmetic massage along Langer's lines, remember: gradualism, consistency, awareness. In this case, the skin will remain fresh and tightened for many years.