Sometimes when my massage therapist works my arms, the work is painful, but I’m always embarrassed to say anything because she’s the expert and I don’t want her to feel bad. What should I do?
Please speak up! While your massage therapist has extensive knowledge and training about the human body and massage therapy techniques, you are the expert on you and what feels right during a session. Sharing information about depth of pressure and your comfort won’t make your massage therapist feel bad; she’ll likely feel grateful she can adjust her pressure so her work is effective and feels good! Your feedback might even start a conversation about why work in that area is painful that will help you both adapt future session plans appropriately. And the same goes for anything else that doesn’t feel comfortable during your session—face cradle positioning, bolster, room temperature, etc.—please let us know so we can make the proper adjustments. A successful massage session is a collaboration between therapist and client. Your massage therapist relies on your feedback, so please speak up!
Kristin Coverly, LMT, is a massage therapist and the director of professional education for Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals.
As I get older, it seems as if my makeup that I’ve been using for decades is no longer the best choice for my skin. What do you recommend?
Cream foundations and liquids are the best bets for dry and aging skin. These products spread easily and contain emollients that help add a bit of a layer on top of dry skin that helps soften the appearance of fine lines. Silicones are often used as the vehicles for dry skin makeup, as they “ride the surface” of the skin so pigments and powder ingredients are less likely to cake in wrinkles and dry areas. Dry, aging skin should be treated with good hydrating and moisture-binding ingredients, like ceramides and hyaluronic acid, prior to makeup application. When the skin is well hydrated and in good condition, makeup always looks better and more natural.
Mark Lees, PhD, MS, CIDESCO, is a skin care educator, product developer, therapist, and author.