How to adapt your facial massage technique for different clients

Anna Tsankova shares her top tips for adapting facial massage depending on the age of the client.

Facial massage is beneficial for all age groups thanks to its multiple benefits that go beyond aesthetics, and it can be customised to address specific age-related concerns, adapting to clients’ needs in each stage of life. 

I usually do not like to group clients based on age as my approach is to create personalised protocols for everyone, yet we can consider the unique challenges faced by different age groups and have a look at some of the differentiations.

Clients aged 20 to 30

For younger clients, the primary focus of facial massage can be on lymphatic drainage and detoxification. At this age, the skin is still relatively firm and elastic, but urban living, pollution and daily environmental stressors can contribute to a build-up of congestion and dullness. Combinations of enzyme peeling and regular facial massage that includes manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) would be beneficial for detoxifying the skin and removing waste products.

While facial massage doesn’t directly remove congestion and pollution, it can enhance the skin’s defence mechanisms by improving circulation and promoting a healthy glow. Additionally, combining facial massage with antioxidant-rich serums or oils can help protect the skin from free radicals, which are commonly triggered by pollution or sun exposure.

Clients aged 30 to 45 

For this age group, the concerns often shift towards managing the impact of stress, busy lifestyles and the early signs of ageing. At this stage, facial massage plays a significant role not only in skin health but also in overall wellbeing.

Massage techniques like myofascial and muscle release can be particularly effective in relieving tension, improving circulation and enhancing oxygen flow – not just to the skin but also to the brain.

This holistic approach can reduce stress, promote mindfulness, and support mental clarity, making it ideal for clients dealing with stressful jobs, urban living, young kids or an active social life.

I am an advocate that a regular facial massage routine is a form of self-care, combining physical benefits like increased collagen production and enhanced skin tone with emotional and mental relaxation.

Clients aged 45 and beyond

Around the age of 45, both female and male clients start experiencing some hormonal fluctuations, which can affect the skin.

In this stage of life, clients’ concerns are often focused on addressing sagging skin, loss of definition and reduced skin density. The skin is supported by a complex scaffolding of muscles, bones, subcutaneous fat and other structures such as fascia, and true rejuvenation involves addressing all these layers – not just the surface.

My approach targets these deeper structures through advanced techniques that involve working on the facial muscles, fascia, and even the skeletal alignment. This creates a more profound lifting effect, improving overall facial contours and firmness.