Ear candling can be a relaxing treatment not only for the ear, but also for the face. During ear candling, a massage therapist can provide a pleasing facial massage that can help relax the facial muscles as well as act as a mini face-lift. The technique is very simple to perform, but can make the difference between a basic ear candling and a memorable experience.
What Is Ear Candling
Ear candling has been performed for centuries by many different cultures as a way to soothe ear pain, ease infections and treat many common maladies. It is performed by inserting the narrow end of a hollow, cone-shaped candle made from strips of thread soaked in wax into the ear canal, lighting the exposed end, and trimming as the candle burns down. The heat and flame create a slight vacuum and warming that help to soften the ear wax and allow material to be removed easily. It is performed on one ear at a time, with the person laying on his side.
For safety reasons, a drip tray or plate prevents ash or hot wax from dripping onto the person's face. You may need to move this tray to do a face massage. Obviously, you can massage only one side of the face at a time.
Select an Appropriate Lotion
Use a nongreasy lotion with a light or no scent. Lotions used on the face should bring moisture to the skin without being greasy or overly aromatic. Facial skin can be sensitive, so make sure the lotion is gentle to sensitive skin.
Apply Lotion Lightly
Use just enough lotion to allow for smooth movement of the hands across the face. Too much lotion can lead to clumping, or excess lotion getting into the hair. Use smooth, light strokes to apply the lotion, moving from the jawline to the forehead. This ensures that the does not contribute to premature wrinkling of the skin, and contributes to a lifting and tightening of the skin of the face.
Massage Techniques
With smooth movements, start lightly massaging along the jaw line. Move from the chin to the ear, working in small circles. Work in rows across the up side of the face. You may have to move the protective tray to get access to the face near the ear, but make sure the ear candle does not leave the ear canal.
Use smooth, long strokes across the cheeks, the nose and the upper lip. Again, work lightly. If the client complains of sinus pressure, you may want to avoid the areas below the eyes, adjacent to the nose and above the eyebrows. If the client agrees, some very light pressure may be used, although you should avoid any tapping.
Massage lightly across the forehead, moving with the fingertips from the bridge of the nose across the eyebrow, then also up and across the hairline.
When the massage is complete, stroke upward again from the jawline to the forehead.
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