Lymphatic Drainage Facial Massage

Your lymphatic system is a key part of your immune system. Every day, up to two liters of lymph fluid are absorbed by our body tissue from our bloodstream. Lymph fluid contains toxins, waste, bacteria, and viruses that we want to get rid of from our bodies. This job is handled by the network of lymph vessels that transport the fluid and the 600 or so lymph nodes in our body, which are responsible for filtering out all these toxins and waste so they don't spread to the rest of our body.

Sometimes, when these lymph nodes are struggling to cope with all the waste and toxins we need them to get rid of, they can become swollen and less effective. When you have impaired lymphatic function that can't effectively manage all the waste and toxins in our body, this isn't great news for your skin health, and why lymphatic drainage can help.

Lymphatic drainage refers to techniques used to promote the flow of fluid in the lymphatic system. A gentle facial massage can be used to activate manual lymph drainage of the fluid buildup in the face and surrounding areas. This light lymphatic facial massage helps to improve circulation, promote lymphatic flow to remove the excess fluid, and push the toxins and waste from the lymph nodes. 

The benefits of working with the lymphatic system include aiding in your body’s detoxification process, helping put your body into its parasympathetic state (rest and repair) as well as helps to depuff by ridding excess water retention. 

Lymphatic drainage is generally safe. However, check in with your healthcare provider first if you have: a high risk of blood clots, congestive heart failure, an active lymphatic infection, or swelling with no known cause.

*Information from multiple sources including FaceGym & Healthline