Somewhere in the deep depths of the internet recently, I discovered a San Francisco-based Thai masseuse who offers no-holds-barred, face-slapping treatments to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, shrink pores, and slim the face. Her method is extreme...but in a less dramatic sense, there really is a method to her madness. In fact, a good face pummeling is endorsed by the K-beauty world.
RELATED STORIES
When I spoke to Glow Recipe co-founder Christine Chang, she explained that it's a technique used in Korea to help absorb skincare more efficiently or to help dry skin after cleansing.
"Face slapping is something you learn from your mother ," explains Chang. "One of my early memories is watching my mother at her vanity, meticulously patting on each skincare step. It helps with micro-circulation, keeping the skin firmed and toned. I use it after cleansing versus a towel as I find that it leaves skin plumped and a perfect canvas for applying skincare."
To "slap" your moisturizers and serum into place, start by using the finger tips to gently and briskly pat the skin in an upwards and circular motion. "It may sound loud, but you actually shouldn't be using too much pressure," she instructs.
It may create a little more work during your daily skincare routine, but remember: Proper application is just as much part of the K-beauty routine as products—and while tedious, the K-beauty way is nothing if not instantly gratifying.
Follow Marie Claire on Facebook for the latest celeb news, beauty tips, fascinating reads, livestream video, and more.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Lauren is the former beauty editor at Marie Claire. She love to while away the hours at coffee shops, hunt for vintage clothes, and bask in the rough-and-tumble beauty of NYC. She firmly believes that solitude can be a luxury if you’ve got the right soundtrack—that being the Rolling Stones, of course.
-
Kelly Clarkson Claims Her Ex-Husband Owes Her Even More Money After He Allegedly "Violated Labor Laws" as Her Manager
The "Stronger" star was already awarded $2.6 million in a previous lawsuit.
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Robert Downey Jr. Discusses the Highs and Lows of His Career After Oscar Win
"I think if you develop a moral psychology, things are a lot easier."
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Anne Hathaway Steals the Show at SXSW Movie Premiere in a Sparkling Mini Dress
The 'Les Míserables' star's red carpet look featured geometric highlights.
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
The 32 Best Hair Growth Shampoos of 2024, According to Experts
Rapunzel hair, coming right up.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published
-
The 20 Best Hair Masks for Damaged Hair, According to Experts and Editors
Healthy strands, here we come!
By Gabrielle Ulubay Last updated
-
How Often You Should Wash Your Hair, According To Experts
Keep it fresh, my friends.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published
-
The 11 Best Magnetic Lashes of 2023
Go ahead and kiss your messy lash glue goodbye.
By Hana Hong Published
-
Beauty Advent Calendars Make the Perfect Holiday Gift
The gift that keeps on giving.
By Julia Marzovilla Last updated
-
The 18 Best Natural Hair Products in 2023
Remember: Your curls are your crown.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published
-
The 9 Best Hot Rollers for the Curls of Your Dreams
This is how we roll.
By Samantha Holender Published
-
The 12 Best Cream Eyeshadows, According to Makeup Artists
The best part? They’re so easy to apply.
By Samantha Holender Published