What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

is a form of gentle massage that encourages the movement of lymph fluids around the body. The fluid in the lymphatic system helps remove waste and toxins from the bodily tissues. Some health conditions can cause lymph fluid to build up.

Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage

  • Improves a wide variety of skin issues and concerns:  clogged pores, acne, slowed healing, dull skin, dehydrated skin, and puffy skin
  • Improves cellular turnover and elasticity
  • Improves overall glow and radiance
  • Speeds healing time for acne, eczema, and other skin traumas
  • Speeds fading time for dark spots
  • Minimizes the appearance of fine lines
  • Improves allergy symptoms that present in the face and neck (e.g. congestion, puffy/watery/itchy eyes, etc.)

How To Do the Lymphatic face drainage massage

  1. Work down at collarbone, work up towards neck (including sides
    of neck) up towards ears and jawline (3X).
  2. Work downwards in front of the ears (3X).
  3. Work outwards and downwards from chin to ears across the
    jawline (3X).
  4. Work outwards and downwards from upper lip (under nostrils) to
    ears (3X).
  5. Work outwards and downwards from sides of the nose to ears
    (3X).
  6. Work outwards and downwards from inner eye along your nose to
    the ears (3X).
  7. Use the full hand (fingertips on temples) on the sides of the face
    to pump outwards and downwards.
  8. Place the fingertips very lightly under the eyes and gently pump
    downwards.
  9. Place the fingertips on the brows and pump outwards and
    upwards.
  10. Place the full hand on the forehead (palms over temples) and
    pump outwards and downwards.

A Demo Video of How to do the Lymphatic Drainage Face Massage

How do you know if its working

People who use lymphatic drainage massages may notice that their swelling reduces. At the very least, swelling should not worsen.

People who have lymphedema should continue using compression socks or sleeves to prevent swelling.

Those who use lymphatic massages to treat fibromyalgia might experience less stiffness and pain and also notice improvements in their overall health status.

People can also boost their lymphatic system function and help remove more waste from the body using the following methods:

  • drinking plenty of water
  • staying physically active
  • eating vegetables and fruits
  • limiting the intake of processed foods

FAQ

What are the symptoms of poor lymphatic drainage system?

The main sign of lymphatic dysfunction is lymphedema. Lymphedema causes swelling in your arms or legs. Your fingers or toes may retain fluid and swell. The tissues of the head and neck may be affected, too.
…
Lymphedema can also lead to:

  • skin changes.
  • skin discoloration.
  • blisters.
  • leaking of fluid from the skin.
  • infection.

How do you feel after lymphatic drainage massage?

Lymphatic drainage can leave you feeling exhausted. You may want to have a lie down, or at the very least, a very undemanding schedule for the rest of the day. Give your body time to ease back into activity. Lymphatic drainage massage may also leave you really thirsty. This condition does not apply to everyone.

How often should I do lymphatic drainage massage?

It is recommended that you get the series of lymphatic drainage session every three months.

Protocol for Frequency

Number of visits each week:

  1. First week: 3 sessions
  2. Second week:  3 sessions
  3. Third week: 2 sessions
  4. Fourth week: 2 sessions
  5. Fifth week: 1 session
  6. Sixth week: 1 session

Clients must make a commitment to do this as suggested to get the results they expect.

Who should not do lymphatic drainage face massage

Lymphatic drainage should be avoided by individuals experiencing any of the following:

  • Congestive heart failure
  • Inflammation or infection of the lymphatic vessels
  • Increased risk of blood clotting
  • Skin infection
  • Post-surgery lymph-edema marked by localized swelling.

Important Note

If you have symptoms of lymphedema, your health care provider may order tests to identify the cause of the swelling.

If you’re considering the use of lymphatic drainage in the treatment of a condition, it’s important to consult your health care provider to see if it’s the best course of treatment for you. Compression therapy and exercise may be recommended, and those with severe lymphedema may need further treatment.

Seek treatment from a qualified practitioner of this technique. Some physical therapists, physicians, nurses, and massage therapists are trained and licensed to practice lymphatic drainage.