

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.
I’m the associate web editor at Marie Claire. I love to while away the hours at coffee shops, hunt for vintage clothes, and bask in the rough-and-tumble beauty of NYC. I firmly believe that solitude can be a luxury if you’ve got the right soundtrack—that being the Rolling Stones, of course.
-
Are Kevin Kreider and Kim Lee From 'Bling Empire' Together Now?
Sparks fly between the two cast members in the Netflix hit's second season.
By The Editors
-
SuChin Pak Is No Longer Settling for Your Definition of Courage
In an excerpt from a new book, the journalist details the racist incidents at MTV News that shaped her early career and how she's only recently been able to dismantle that trauma.
By Neha Prakash
-
Essie x Parade Is Here!
Cute underwear, meet cute nail polish.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
The 26 Best Sunscreens Ever for Your Face and Body
Formulas to stock up on, stat.
By Samantha Holender
-
The 10 Best Supplements for Skin to Add to Your Daily Routine
From glow-boosting gummies to acne-fighting pills.
By Samantha Holender
-
The 18 Best Mascaras, According to Marie Claire Editors
"It feels like I've been searching for the perfect mascara since birth, but I think I've finally landed on a keeper..."
By Julia Marzovilla
-
The 50 Best Hairstyles for Thin, Fine Hair That Never Fall Flat
Fake-it-'til-you-make-it volume.
By Tatjana Freund
-
The 10 Best Eyeshadows for Darker Skin Tones That Will Make Your Eyes Pop
Palettes, pigments, and shimmers with incredible color payoff.
By Taylore Glynn
-
The Andie MacDowell Renaissance Is Upon Us
The '90s icon has always done things her own way. Now, the world is finally catching up to her.
By Sara Stewart
-
The 14 Best LED Light Therapy Face Masks Worth Every Penny
Masking at home: So hot rn.
By Taylore Glynn
-
The 9 Best Highlighters for Dark Skin Tones
The top products have shimmer, glow, and work with your undertones.
By Taylore Glynn