Skin Care
Want to make your spa stand out? If you want to improve your clients’ skin and overall wellness, facial reflexology could be a powerful add-on. You may have heard of this age-old practice, but what is facial reflexology and how can it benefit your clients? Read on to learn how simple facial and scalp techniques can stimulate the nervous system and support healthier-looking skin.
What is facial reflexology?
Facial reflexology draws on two main systems: Dien Chan, developed by Dr. Bùi Quôc Châu and rooted in Traditional Vietnamese and Chinese medicine, and the Sorensensistem method, created by Lone Sorenson from Eastern and South American traditions.
Reflexology has been used across cultures for centuries. While modern science hasn’t mapped the exact anatomical or physiological pathways behind meridians in traditional Chinese medicine, many people report relief from pain and improvements in skin and overall wellbeing after reflexology sessions.
How does facial reflexology work?
Facial reflexology uses gentle, non-invasive fingertip pressure on specific points of the face and scalp to stimulate the brain and nervous system. These reflex points are believed to correspond to different parts of the body. The technique is usually performed with natural or organic facial oils and requires no special equipment.
Eminence Organics educator Brian Goodwin explains that targeted massage techniques work holistically by stimulating meridian points. Common reflex points include:
– Taiyang: the temples
– Bitong: the nostril area at the nasolabial groove
– Yin tang: the center of the forehead, the “third eye”
By working these points, practitioners aim to lower stress, boost blood flow and oxygen to the face, and help skin look firmer, more toned, and plump.
What are the benefits?
Facial reflexology may offer:
– Reduced muscle tension
– Healthier-looking skin
– Pain relief
– Better sleep
– Increased energy
– Support for immune function
– Improved mood
– Headache relief
– Clearer sinuses
Brian notes that clients can see improvements in skin hydration, circulation, and vitality, and practitioners may target conditions like acne, rosacea, or eczema. He stresses, however, that treatments should be approached holistically.
Adding facial reflexology to your spa
Facial reflexology can support overall health, which in turn helps the skin. Offer it for issues such as stress, muscle tension, headaches, or sinus congestion. A good way to introduce it is as a complimentary add-on to facials or massages during a monthly promotion, which also gives practitioners a chance to explain the benefits to clients.
Education is the first step: teach practitioners how reflexology works and prepare clear client-facing information for your website and social media. Many clients won’t know what reflexology is, so explaining its purpose and value will make them more likely to book.
Consultations are key. A thorough intake helps determine client needs, goals, and the best products for their skin.
Product recommendations and application
For reflexology sessions, a facial oil is often ideal. Brian recommends Eminence Organics Facial Recovery Oil as a luxurious option for all skin types, made with Biodynamic® ingredients from Demeter International Certified Biodynamic® farms. For use, apply two to three drops into your hands, spread lightly, and press the oil into the client’s face, neck, and décolleté before performing reflexology techniques.
For more education, consider becoming an Eminence Organics Spa Partner or check our blog for regular content aimed at spa professionals.