Why lymphatic drainage matters in skincare
Why is the lymphatic system so important to our health and in particular for our faces?
The lymphatic system is an important part of our immune system. Lymph originates from the plasma in our blood. It is formed from the clear fluid that bathes all the tissues of our body. It contains waste, toxins, viruses and bacteria which our bodies need to get rid of. It also produces lymphocytes to destroy viruses and bacteria. The lymphatic systems main function is to filter unwanted material from the lymph fluid.
When the lymphatic system is impaired, the lymph becomes stagnant, causing puffiness in the face. Bacteria can build up can lead to spots and blemishes.
Sluggish lymph creates inflammation leading to a decline in the skin health and may lead to rosacea, puffiness, acne and dark circles Our lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump system to propel it around the body. Instead it depends on movement, muscle contraction and breathing to help it move along.
So, what’s the good news then?
Well, the face responds very well to lymphatic massage. Lymphatic drainage is a one-directional manual movement that helps move fluid out of the tissues into the lymph nodes where it cleanses the lymph, reduces swelling and helps eliminate skincare problems. Facial lymphatic drainage involves very gentle movements, with light pressure. The lymph sits very near the surface of our skin, so the more gentle the pressure the better the results.
What caused morning puffiness in the face?
Fluid builds up on the face overnight as we sleep because we are not moving so much and the system becomes stagnant. Massaging your face first thing in the morning can really get things moving and reduce puffiness.
Benefits of facial lymphatic drainage
Healthy glowing skin
Reduced visible puffiness
More sculpted and defined facial features
Smoother skin texture
Helps with the detoxification process
Improves circulation
Reduces dark circles
This is as much about self care as it is about health. Practicing daily facial massage can increase your feeling of well being. It can increase the parasymphatic nervous system making you feel more relaxed. It will help slow your breathing, slow your heart rate and calm your digestive system.
The movements are simple to do at home once you’ve mastered the techniques.
There are different options for doing lymph drainage on the face.
- Lymphatic drainage massage can be done on clean, dry skin just using your hands.
- You can use The Lymphatic Brush on dry skin ( I call this my lazy tool as it is so easy to use). shop
- Or you can use a facial oil or balm with a Gua Sha tool.
Photo of Gua Sha tool with oil to come.