Still chasing after glowy, baby-soft skin? Chinese actress Zhao Lusi just shared her ultimate body skincare tip on Chinese social media platform, Red Note, and we’re all ears.
Her secret? Meridian massage. It’s not just another TikTok fad; this practice has its roots in ancient TCM medicine and aims to enhance blood circulation while giving your skin that radiant glow we all desire.
Based on the belief that our bodies have a network of energy channels (known as “meridians”) that connect different organs and regulate the flow of qi (vital life energy). When these pathways are blocked, it can lead to dull skin, puffiness, or even breakouts.
By using targeted massage techniques along these lines, you’re not just pampering your skin; you’re helping to restore internal balance, improve blood circulation, and promote natural detoxification. The result? A brighter, healthier complexion that glows from within.
We’ve laid out Zhao Lusi’s precise steps so you can achieve her glow at home. Your skin will thank you.
Skin Preparation
Before diving into the massage, Zhao Lusi swears by proper prep. She recommends doing it right after your shower, when your skin is still damp. This helps your body oil absorb more effectively and cuts down on unnecessary friction during the massage.
Wooden Meridian Massage Brush
Zhao Lusi reaches for a wooden meridian brush with smooth, rounded, and solid edges. It’s gentle yet effective, perfect for stimulating the skin without irritation. Bonus: it adds a touch of spa-level luxe to your routine.
Body Oil
You’ll also need a lightweight, fast-absorbing body oil. Not only does it help your brush glide effortlessly across your skin, but it also delivers a burst of nourishment while locking in post-shower moisture.
She opts for L’occitane Almond Supple Skin Oil (S$81) and slathers it along her skin. Formulated with 50% sweet almond oil and sunflower oil, this rich yet lightweight body oil leaves the skin smooth like satin.
Before You Begin
After ample skin prep, it’s time to pick up your wooden massage brush and get to work. But here’s the golden rule: always follow the direction of the meridians.
Zhao Lusi emphasises that technique matters. Use gentle, consistent strokes with moderate pressure; you want to feel a light warming sensation, not irritation. This ensures you’re activating circulation and detox pathways without stressing the skin.
Neck and Shoulders
Start at the neck and shoulders, gently pulling upwards and pushing outwards. This step helps release tension after a long day and subtly lifts your neckline. It’s also great for improving posture and encouraging lymphatic flow around the collarbone area.
Drain the Arms
Use your brush to sweep along the inside and outside of your arms, going from top to bottom. This motion follows the meridian lines and encourages the release of water retention, perfect for toning up extra flab around the upper arms and refining their shape.
Leg Sculpting
Whether you go from thighs down to calves or vice versa, the key is to brush lightly along the direction of the meridians. Zhao Lusi pays special attention to the outer thighs, home of the gallbladder meridian, to improve circulation and elongate the look of the legs.
Tummy Detox
Finish your contouring routine off at the abdomen. Use circular motions in a gentle clockwise direction. This helps stimulate digestion, relieve bloating, and smooth the lower belly area; great after a heavy meal or a long, sedentary day.
Can’t get enough of Zhao Lusi’s tips and tricks? Find out the details behind her “menstrual weight loss” plan that helps her shed 3kg within a week.
