Part 1: Facial Massage - What Is Actually Changing?

Apparently, our faces need a workout now, too.

I would get a deep facial massage and notice a huge difference in my expression. My face looked softer, more relaxed, almost like someone had wiped away the stress. I could see it in the mirror.

So when I see all the talk about facial massage, gua sha and sculpting your face, I’m interested. But what is actually changing? Is it the puffiness? The muscles? Can it really change the shape of your face?

Our faces are made up of bone, fat, muscle, connective tissue and skin. Fluid can also make us look puffy. When massage reduces that puffiness, you may see more definition in your cheeks and jawline. Your face can look different without your bones changing.

A small 2025 study followed 34 women using either gua sha or facial rollers for eight weeks. Researchers found changes in facial measurements and some muscle and skin properties. It’s interesting, but everyone received treatment, so there was no untreated group to compare with. We also don’t know how long the results lasted once they stopped.

For me, the relaxed expression was a big part of the appeal. I don’t need every treatment to promise a dramatic transformation. Looking refreshed and feeling like I’ve let go of some tension matters, too.

I would still ask what results to expect and how long they should last. And gentle pressure is enough for facial gua sha. You shouldn’t be bruising your face. If you’ve recently had a cosmetic procedure, check with your provider before booking a massage.

Next, let’s talk about face yoga and FaceGym. Can working those muscles actually change how we look?