A contra-action can occur during or after any beauty or holistic treatment. A contra- action is something that happens as a result of having had a treatment. It may be caused by the treatment itself or, by the client not following the correct after care advice, as instructed by the therapist. Below is a list of contra-actions that can occur during a massage treatment

A common contra-action associated with massage is an allergic reaction. Massage mediums can contain ingredients which may cause an adverse reaction. Before your treatment, check whether the client is aware of any allergies, or has suffered any reactions in the past.

The skin may suffer from sensitivities which could appear on the face or neck. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, swelling, inflammation, blistering at the site of contact followed by weeping, dryness and flaking of the skin. Symptoms of an allergy are not always immediate, and may take up to 48 hours to surface.

If a client does react to any products during treatment, remove the substance immediately with water and apply a cooling lotion. Make a note of the reaction and your response on the client’s record card, and advise them to seek medical advice.

Erythema
This is the reddening of the skin caused by dilation of blood vessels controlling local capillary networks in areas of the skin affected by injury or infection.

Hyperaemia
This is identified by the engorgement of an area of the body and is caused by an excess of blood in that area.

Nausea
The client may experience some feelings of sickness during the treatment. This is brought about by the increased circulation of waste products through the lymphatic system.

Bruising
Bruising during a massage treatment is usually due to the incorrect application of the technique. This is most commonly caused by excessive pressure.

Inflammation
Some inflammation may occur during the treatment. This may be due to an allergy to the massage medium.

Increased Micturition and Defaecation
Due to the detoxifying effects of massage the client may need to visit the toilet more often.