The lymphatic system is a part of the body’s immune system that carries waste and maintains fluid levels. You can maximize the detoxifying effect and improve your skin health with proper lymphatic drainage techniques. Keep reading to understand the benefits of lymphatic drainage, how to do lymphatic drainage massage for the face, and the risks. Lymphatic drainage gives the face a lovely bounce. It helps balance out the connective tissue (fascia) affected by stress. This massage will allow your lymphatic system to improve the delivery of new and important nutrients to your cells while clearing out the excess fluid. Now that you know what lymphatic drainage massage is, it’s time to explore how it can help you.
Benefits Of Lymphatic Drainage For Face
There are numerous benefits of facial lymphatic drainage. However, no significant research studies have been conducted to back these claims. Most evidence is anecdotal.
1. May Boost Your Skin Radiance
Lymphatic drainage may increase blood flow and enhance your complexion (3), (4), making you look better when practiced daily. It’s especially suggested for people with dull skin. Certified Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy (L.E.T) Practitioner, Lourdes D’Sylva, says, “By encouraging the flow of lymph fluid, you’re allowing the body to get rid of cellular and metabolic waste. The fluid gets filtered out and the waste leaves your body. This minimizes scarring and helps the body fight the viruses and bacteria that cause acne and blemishes. It also reduces puffiness by getting rid of any stored fluids.”
2. May Fix Fine Lines And Wrinkles
Lymphatic facial massage may help smoothen facial muscles and fascia (the underlying tissues of the face). The massage may also lift sagging facial features and reduce wrinkles and fine lines (5). “Lymphatic drainage facials boost the elasticity in skin because they stimulate collagen production and increase cell turnover rates. So, yes, they can help with those fine lines and wrinkles,” says Lourdes D’Sylva.
3. May Reduce Stress And Anxiety
Lymphatic massage is non-invasive and quite calming and therapeutic. It enhances the feeling of well-being. It also may lower anxiety and stress (6).
4. May Minimize Signs Of Fatigue
This massage has a relaxing and firming impact on the skin and aids in the restoration of energy and vigor. It helps revitalize tissues and reduces the appearance of under-eye dark circles and puffiness. Note: Lymphatic facial massage is not suggested under certain circumstances. Hence, consult a qualified esthetician before booking a treatment. Now you can try lymphatic drainage at home too with the help of a facial roller. Let us understand how you can use it.
How To Use A Face Roller For Lymphatic Drainage?
You need to stroke the roller always in the direction of a lymph node, starting from the middle of the face and moving outwards (under your ear or temple). Practice caution while performing this procedure by yourself at home. Ensure you thoroughly understand the procedure from a licensed specialist before performing it. Here’s how to execute a detoxifying facial rolling procedure: Tip: Store your roller in the refrigerator to keep it cool. While most gem rollers are cold, using the extra-chilled one shrinks pores temporarily and wakes up a tired face at the end of the day (or early in the morning). The roller is ideal for usage before you step outside. You will notice a difference in your face in a couple of weeks if you use the roller twice to thrice a week for at least five minutes. Although lymphatic drainage is one of the most common therapeutic massage treatments, it has some side effects too. Find more in the next section.
Side Effects
Lymphatic massage should only be practiced by a massage therapist who has been trained in the technique. However, if you perform this at home without consulting a doctor, you may experience some side effects like:
Headache Swelling Muscle aches Nausea Dizziness Skin breakouts
Note: These side effects are purely based on anecdotal evidence. Additionally, massaging the face also lowers muscle tension, reduces pressure, and eliminates toxins. However, lymphatic massage should only be performed by a professional esthetician who is licensed in the treatment. Performing it yourself without the right knowledge may cause swelling, skin outbreaks, and more. Can poor lymph drainage cause acne? Yes, anecdotal evidence suggests that blockage of the lymphatic system with toxin-filled fluid may result in acne. What is the fastest way to cleanse your lymphatic system? You can try simple tips like engaging in physical activity, eating a balanced diet, and managing your stress effectively to help cleanse your lymphatic system. How do I know if I need lymphatic drainage? If you experience bloating, swollen lymph nodes, recurring infection, pain, and dry skin, then you may need a lymphatic drainage massage.
