Body Care

We know that getting a massage feels good—whether you’re at home or at the spa, a good back rub helps you stand taller, both because your muscles are loose and because it improves your mood. But is that a placebo effect, or are massages really good for your health?

It turns out that massage is an ancient art for a reason. Research shows that massage therapy has many surprising health benefits, and there are many kinds of massage therapies that target different parts of the body and brain. 

We wanted to know exactly what makes massage therapy so great, so we polled the experts on Gina’s Platform across ten types of massage that are bookable on our platform. 

The Most Healing Benefits of Massage Therapy

Common conditions targeted by massage therapy include:

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Chronic pain
• Stiffness
• Trouble focusing

However, you may be surprised by some of the ailments that massage therapy can alleviate. For instance, The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) recommends the use of massage therapy for chemotherapy-induced nausea. According to the Mayo Clinic, massage therapy may alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders, migraines, and insomnia. It’s even said to have an immune-boosting effect. So in addition to soothing sore muscles and melting stress away, massage therapy has some really useful benefits to your health.

Massage Therapy and Mental Health

Though it is an embodied practice, massage’s health benefits extend beyond the physical form. The National Institute of Health (NIH) has published multiple studies that document the positive impact massage therapy can have on mental health.

You have heard—or experienced firsthand—how getting a massage relieves stress. The dimmed lights, soft music, warmth, and good smells are certainly a nice contrast to the chaos of daily life. However, when you leave the massage table, does your dreamy bubble burst, or do your stress levels stay lower than they were before?

The data shows that receiving a massage actually changes your neurochemistry to be more positive. In other words, after a massage, you can go back to your life not just with looser shoulders, but also with an altered outlook on life.

This is because massage therapy is shown to reduce the production of cortisol—the hormone that induces feelings of stress—by about 30%. In addition to that, it increases production of serotonin and dopamine—two chemicals that create feelings of happiness and ease. That could be why massage therapy is said to be good for people with depression and anxiety.

In fact, the positive impact of massage therapy on anxiety is backed by science. The NIH published a study in which 68 people with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) received massage therapy for 12 weeks. All participants saw a significant reduction in symptoms—around 50%—by the end of the 12-week period.

When the researchers followed up with participants 6 months later, they found that participants in the study had maintained the reduction in their symptoms, despite no longer receiving massage therapy. So, according to science, getting a massage can have both short and long term health benefits, regardless of whether you continue with massage therapy.

The Top 10 Massage Experiences Offered on Gina’s Platform

Different types of massage therapies target different ailments, so what type of massage might be good for you? Here are the top ten massage specialities offered by the professionals on Gina’s platform:

1. Aromatherapy: The perfect blend of neuroscience and massage. Give your limbic system a treat with the smell of soothing essential oils. Aromatherapy massage is an unparalleled sensory delight.
2. Chair massage: Get all of the regular massage benefits with your clothes on and your head up. Chair massage targets the muscles in the back that keep your neck and shoulders tight.
3. Deep tissue: The ultimate massage for health and wellness. For pain caused by chronic conditions, deep tissue massages hit all your hard-to-reach spots.
4. Express massage: Nothing tightens your shoulders like a packed schedule. Don’t have time for an hour-long massage? Express massage offers all of the benefits of a massage therapy session in half the time.
5. Hot stones: Connect with yourself and the earth with a hot stone massage. Basalt—a type of volcanic rock—comes from deep below the earth’s crust. Though not as hot as the lava that made them, these stones warm you from the inside out.
6. Neuromuscular therapy: Neuromuscular massage cuts the nonsense and gets to the point; in neuromuscular massage therapy, practitioners target one small area, known as a trigger point, to treat pain in other parts of the body.
7. Physical therapy: Yes, physical therapists use massage too! Though not as relaxing as a spa treatment, massage in physical therapy—known as soft-tissue mobilization, or STM—can be used to treat neurological conditions and injuries and is complemented by the use of other treatment modalities.
8. Pregnancy massage: Say goodbye to lower back pain and realign your tired spine with the help of a trained professional. Whether prenatal or postpartum, a massage may be just what you need to relieve your pregnancy pangs.
9. Reflexology: Another highly targeted type of massage. Reflexology is said to heal ailments in the organs by touching pressure points on the feet and hands.
10. Swedish: Through a combination of rubbing and tapping muscles and joints, Swedish massage is a great way to relax as well as treat pain.

Massage FAQs:

On Gina’s Platform, you can quickly and easily book an appointment with an expert massage therapist in your area. The professionals on our site have a wide variety of specialities, so whether you’re looking for pain relief or pampering, you’ve come to the right place. 

Ready to book? The massage therapists on Gina’s Platform are here to get you in peak health! 

Personal grooming is just that – personal. When it comes to hair removal, there are as many ways to accomplish your end goal as there are ways to wear said hair. 

Maybe you want to completely remove hair on some parts of your body, but let it grow naturally and untouched in others. Maybe you want to shape that growth or give it defined parameters. Waxing and shaving have stood the test of time, emerging as the go-to method for all of the above. That is, unless you’re going au naturale (and if so, heck yeah!)  

While one technique is not inherently better than the other, one might be better for you. This primer covers the benefits of waxing vs shaving, as well as some key considerations to make before doing any sort of bodyscaping.

The Difference Between Shaving and Waxing

While the end result may be the same – in this case, smooth, strand-free skin – the process from hair to bare is actually quite different. 

When shaving, hair is removed from the surface of the skin using a razor. Since the hair is just getting a trim, you have to shave more frequently. According to Medicine.net, “Most hair strands grow at an average rate of about 0.3 to 0.4 mm a day. So, this means it may grow up to one-tenth of an inch or a little more in a week.” Shaving also provides mild exfoliation, which can lead to irritation, breakouts, and ingrown hairs if skin is sensitive or not prepared correctly. 

Waxing, on the other hand, moves the hair follicle entirely. The wax can be applied warm or cold and has been known to eliminate ingrowns and thin hair regrowth in removal areas. In order for the wax to “grip” the hair, it needs to be grown out about 1/4th of an inch. The grow out process can be uncomfortable for some people, and takes some advanced planning.

Hair Removal Techniques and Considerations

Whether you wax or shave there are some things to keep in mind. Take a moment to think through these factors before you start the removal process. 

1. Cost. You can get a nice razor for under $10. However, keep in mind you’ll need to keep consistently buying fresh blades to cut down on bacteria growth and shaving cream to help minimize razor burn. Waxing can range from $35-100+ depending on which part of the body you’re looking to target. 
2. Areas. Though you can technically achieve your hair loss goals with either method, each is better suited for certain parts of the body than others. For instance, if you are removing hair anywhere on your face, start with waxing first. Otherwise, you’ll have to lather up and shave daily and hair could become more coarse over time. The bikini line is another delicate area. Shaving not only puts a razor in close proximity to such a tender spot, it can invite more ingrown hairs and leave rash-like bumps. Waxing may also temporarily irritate the skin, especially if it’s sensitive, but it typically doesn’t last. Having your bikini area waxed professionally can help you avoid injury, which is important given how notoriously difficult it can be to see the entire area. 
3. Longevity. If you’re looking for a hair removal method that lasts, treating yourself to a professional body wax is a no-brainer. Results usually last for at least three to four weeks. With consistent waxing, hair regrowth may slow to six weeks or more. Unlike shaving, which can grow back in as little as two days since it doesn’t disrupt the growth cycle.
4. Risks. Plan to complete the waxing process at home? Beware. If you put the wax on too thick, removing the strip can actually create bruising. Too hot and you may burn or remove some skin – eep! In a salon, much of the minor irritation you could experience can be reduced by gently exfoliating the area the day before and taking an anti-inflammatory like Ibuprofen 30 minutes prior to your appointment.  

Shaving vs Waxing FAQ

Still deliberating? See if these help move the needle.

Regardless if you’re shaving or waxing currently, it can be helpful to consult a professional about the best hair removal methods for your goals and skin type. Have questions or find yourself in a hairy situation? We’re here to help! 

The benefits of microneedling are more than just skin deep. This collagen boosting, wrinkle reducing needle facial treatment is a favorite among dermatologists and skin enthusiasts alike.

The multi-purpose skin saver has been around since the mid-90s, but lately, it’s all anyone is talking about. If you follow any beauty bloggers or social media (sk)influencers, you’ve probably seen some posts about the (mostly) painless procedure.

Today, we’re here to needle you with questions and answers about what microneedling is and what microneedling does for your skin.

How Does Microneedling Work? 

So what is microneedling anyway? The procedure, also known as collagen induction therapy, is the process of using a small mechanical device or handheld dermaroller filled with very fine needles to create micro punctures in the skin.

Still wondering how microneedling works to keep you looking younger? The tiny “injuries” created from the needles are nothing more than pinpricks on the skin’s surface. Yet they suggest your skin produce more collagen and elastin to heal the “wound”. Thus, more youthful bouncy skin.

Microneedling side effects are practically non-existent, the process can be used all over the body, results start appearing overnight and things just keep getting better overtime.

So what’s the catch? Is microneedling safe? Does microneedling work? And, most importantly, does it hurt?!

Rapid fire: yes, yes, and no! Microneedling is totally safe, it works wonders, and is virtually painless (despite the blood you may see in YouTube videos). If you can handle lightly pressing your nails into the backs of your hands, you can definitely handle microneedling.

The price of these face needling treatments depends on your esthetician. At $100-700 per appointment, the range is wide with most people paying in the $250-300 region.

Benefits of Microneedling 

Microneedling treatments can target a number of areas from forehead “elevens” and smile lines to balding or scarred areas of the body.

It’s easier to talk about what microneedling doesn’t do than to answer what is microneedling good for. Microneedling benefits include:

• Scar fading
• Hair regrowth
• Diminished acne marks
• Less lines and wrinkles
• Cellulite reduction
• Tightened skin

Is microneedling effective? You bet it is. The results speak for themselves. In a microneedling before and after study performed in 2008, participants showed an impressive 400% jump in collagen and elastin after just four sessions completed every other month for six months.

Side Effects and Risks of Microneedling 

The side effects of microneedling are few and far between. However, you know what they say about too much of a good thing.

Skin treatment with needles requires time to heal between sessions. Engage in the practice too frequently and you risk busted capillaries and a fake plasticy texture. Best to keep treatments to about once a month and give your skin a complete recovery between needle treatments for your face.

If you have a serious skin condition like eczema, severe acne, or rosacea, best to tread lightly and only engage in microneedling facials after you’ve consulted with a trained professional. Women who are pregnant or who are breastfeeding are also discouraged from microneedling as your body’s healing processes are usually slower during this special time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Microneedling

Before you let a trained professional take something small and sharp to your face, you probably want to be certain about the process. During your consultation, leave no needle unturned. The more questions you ask, the more comfortable you’ll be going into it.

Here are some microneedling FAQs we hear a lot:

Don’t have a microneedling estheticianpicked out yet? Sign up for Gina’s Platform to find the best-rated skin experts in your area.

If a needle procedure for your face sounds slightly intimidating, you’re not alone. Once you understand what microneedling does, how painless it can be, and the unbelievable benefits of microneedling, all that’s left is to experience it for your self. Ready to see firsthand what microneedling can help with? Find a vetted, microneedling professional from our extensive network right here!

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Raise your hand if this year felt extra stressful? You’re not alone. The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that nearly 8 in 10 adults (78%) say the events of 2020 were a significant source of stress in their life.

Left unprocessed, all that stress can lead to some serious health consequences. We’re talking about everything from headaches and heartburn to fertility problems and failing immune systems–no thank you! 

Instead, why not try coping with stressors in healthy ways by upping your relaxation ante. Sure, exercise, sleep, and eating well are also important forms of self-care. But sometimes, what you need is a little calm and serenity to get you through the day. 

An at-home spa day is ideal for everybody and every budget. A Healthier Michigan explains, “studies have shown that the frequency of visiting a spa directly correlates with better quality sleep, fewer sick days, reduced absenteeism from work and fewer hospitalizations.”

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to head to the spa to give yourself a relaxing spa day–just your pantry. This home spa day checklist will help you create an ultra pampering experience without leaving the house.  

Serene facial steam 

No DIY spa day at home would be complete without this staple. 

What you’ll need: 

• A big mixing bowl (preferably glass) 
• Pot of boiling water 
• Your favorite essential oil (lavender and eucalyptus work especially well)
• Towel big enough to cover your entire head 

Start by washing your face. Wait to put on any product. Pour the boiling water into your glass bowl and add a few dashes of essential oil. Throw the towel over your head longways and position your face a few inches from the bowl’s edge. Adjust as needed to avoid a steam burn. As the water evaporates, it will help clear away any remaining dirt or oils. The heat and steam also encourage blood flow. Breathe slowly and deeply to aid the relaxation process. 

Gentle total body exfoliation

Removing dead skin cells is key for helping your skin breathe and expel toxins. While you may want to go easy on sensitive areas like your face, you can exfoliate your entire body using only items from your pantry. 

What you’ll need: 

• Coffee grounds 
• Granulated sugar 
• Olive oil 

Mix equal parts coffee and sugar. Add olive oil until the mixture becomes firm but not too wet or dry. Gently apply by the handful, lightly scrubbing your entire body section-by-section. (Preferably while in the shower or tub to avoid excess mess.)  

Egg-white masks 

Once you’re steamed and cleaned, time to mask up. Believe it or not, you can use the whites of eggs as the base for a mask that can be applied to your hair and skin!

What you’ll need: 

• Egg-whites 
• Aloe vera 
• Olive oil 

Crack the eggs and use the shell to separate the whites into a bowl. The yolks can be discarded, cooked or given to your pets as a treat. Mix remaining ingredients and apply generously to hair, face and neck. The egg whites will help your hair shine and tighten your pores, while the aloe and olive oil soften and moisturize.

A treat for your feet 

It just wouldn’t be a proper home spa day without a little toe treatment. 

What you’ll need: 

• Pumice stone 
• Olive or vegetable oil 
• Cozy socks 

After your feet have been soaked for a few minutes (or you’ve just stepped out of the shower), take the pumice stone and gently slough off any dead skin, concentrating on the heels and balls of your feet. After, apply a generous amount of oil, massaging as you do so. Next, cover your feet with some cozy socks that you don’t mind getting a little oily and put your feet up. You can also do this right before bed and leave on overnight. 

How to give yourself a spa day FAQ

These DIY spa day ideas are pretty self-explanatory, but if you still have questions, see if these help answer them: 

Ready for a spaaa-ctacular day of  at-home treatments? You don’t need an esthetician (though it’s easy to find one here). All you need is some time alone and a few household items from your kitchen. Bonus points if you heat up your towels beforehand in the dryer though.  Still want a professional to double check your work? Sign-up for Gina’s platform to find pros that can help you perfect your self-care craft.