Looking to set your spa apart from the rest? When it comes to improving your Client’s skin, facial reflexology may be the next game-changing service to add to your list of treatments. You may have heard of this centuries-old practice, but you may still wonder what exactly is facial reflexology and how can it help your spa customer’s wellness? Read on to explore how facial reflexology techniques may stimulate the brain and nervous system to bring about skin benefits. 

What Is Facial Reflexology?

Facial reflexology is inspired by two main methods. The first is the Dien Chan, created by Dr. Bùi Quôc Châu rooted in Traditional Vietnamese and Chinese medicinal systems. The second method is the Sorensensistem Method, created by Lone Sorenson and founded in Eastern and South American traditions. 

Reflexology has been practiced across cultures for centuries, but to date, scientists are unable to explain the functional paths used by traditional Eastern medicine. Please keep in mind there is no scientific explanation for the anatomical pathways and the physiological mechanisms of the meridian system that is the basis of traditional Chinese medicine. Nevertheless, anecdotally, reflexology treatments has helped many people find great relief from pain, improved skin health and other health benefits.

How Does Facial Reflexology Work?

Facial reflexology works by stimulating reflex points and zones on the scalp and face to stimulate the brain. It is a gentle and non-invasive technique achieved by using the fingertips for pressure-point massage on the face and scalp. These pressure-points are said to relate to different parts of our anatomy. Natural or organic facial oils are typically used as a part of the massage, with no other equipment required.

Eminence Organics International Educator Brian Goodwin explains how improvements are achieved through specialized facial massage techniques that treat the body holistically through the stimulation of meridian points. 

Three common reflexology points include:

• Taiyang: the temples
• Bitong: the nostril at the nasolabial groove
• Yin tang: the center of the forehead, or “third eye”

The body’s meridians are believed to be vital energy pathways to your organs and body systems. By massaging certain reflexology points, this technique is said to reduce stress levels and encourage blood flow and oxygen to the face. This is believed to improve the appearance of the skin so it appears tightened, tone and plumped. 

What Are The Benefits Of Facial Reflexology?

Facial reflexology’s benefits may include:

• Reduced muscle tension
• Healthier skin
• Pain relief
• Improved sleep
• Greater energy
• Improvement in immune deficiencies
• Improved mood
• Headache relief
• Clearer sinuses

“Facial reflexology's benefits can include improved skin, sleep, and energy levels, as well as reduced muscle tension and chronic pain relief,” explains Brian. “General improvements in the skin may include increased hydration, circulation, and vitality. A practitioner may also target specific skin conditions, such as acne, rosacea, and eczema.” However, practitioners should still approach their treatments holistically,”  he says.

Incorporating Facial Reflexology Treatments Into Your Spa

When it comes to improving the skin, facial reflexology can help a spa Client’s overall health, which in turn helps the skin. You can offer the treatment for issues like stress, muscle tension, headaches or sinus problems. 

“Offering facial reflexology as a free enhancement to facials and massages as a monthly promotion can help introduce it as a service to your customers,” says Brian. “It also opens the door for your practitioners to have a conversation with customers about its benefits.”

The first step to implementing facial reflexology is through education. This means the practitioner educating customers on what facial reflexology is and how it is practiced. You also will need to communicate the health benefits of facial reflexology through effective marketing across your website and social media. 

“Your typical customer may not know what reflexology is and has potentially never heard of it,” says Brian. “Without helping them understand reflexology's purpose and value, customers are unlikely to book it or add it on as a new service.” 

When offering facial reflexology, an important factor for success is planning a thorough consultation with your Clients. This helps you determine their needs and desired results and select the best products for their skin type and concerns.

When it comes to selecting Eminence Organics products for facial reflexology services, we usually turn to a facial oil. “An excellent product that can be used alongside facial reflexology for any skin type is our Facial Recovery Oil,” says Brian. This is a luxurious facial oil suitable for all skin types and is made with Biodynamic® ingredients from Demeter International Certified Biodynamic® farms. 

For application, Brian recommends applying two to three drops into your hands, lightly spreading the oil across your hands, and then pressing it into the customer's face, neck, and decollete before performing reflexology techniques. 

For more award-winning education, find out how to become an Eminence Organics Spa Partner. Or check back on our blog to read our regular content for spa professionals.