Encourage Anti-aging?

Well, if you’ve been anywhere near a beauty salon (or a celebrity’s Instagram) recently, you’ll have heard about facial lymphatic drainage. As more and more people turn away from the face-freezing effects of Botox and fillers, facial massage treatments are becoming more popular. And for good reason – facial lymphatic drainage is credited with a myriad of benefits, from reducing puffiness to adding a youthful boost. But does it deliver?

Hang on – What is Lymph?

Good question! The lymphatic system is the body’s drainage network, keeping fluid levels in balance and defending against infections. Lymphatic fluid flows around the body, sweeping up toxins and eliminating waste via the lymph nodes. You know those lumps in your neck that swell up when you have the flu? Those are lymph nodes.

Got It. So What is Lymphatic Drainage?

Well, the lymphatic system is similar to the circulatory system. However, as it isn’t connected to the heart, it has no pump. So it needs to be helped along – either manually or using exercise. And this is where lymphatic drainage comes in! This gentle form of massage helps the lymphatic system do its job more efficiently. 

When performing a lymphatic drainage massage, the moves have to be light because the lymphatic system is close to the skin – deeper pressure would miss the system completely. Sweeping moves with the fingers or special tools encourage the lymph to circulate, helping waste and toxins reach the lymph nodes where they are processed and finally eliminated. 

And What Does This Mean For My Face?

Facial lymphatic drainage massage employs sweeping moves across the face that help to reduce puffiness, encourage fluid distribution, and improve circulation. In turn, this delivers fresh blood, and therefore oxygen and nutrients to the skin, promoting a smooth complexion and youthful glow. Practitioners ‘sweep’ the lymph under the skin towards the lymph nodes in the neck and ear area, helping it to be processed quicker, and (hopefully) leaving the face smoother and tighter. The youthful glow is the result of increased blood flow to the skin. 

Tell Me More!

Facial lymphatic drainage massage can also reduce under-eye puffiness and dark circles, which instantly results in a more youthful effect. Moreover, there is some evidence that facial lymphatic drainage massage can help to even out the complexion and reduce dark spots. Add to this the fact that a facial massage is a pleasant experience, so you are likely to look more relaxed – and therefore more youthful – after a good self-care session! 

So How Can I Try it?

The beauty of facial massage is that you can do it on yourself. While facial lymphatic drainage can be done using the pads of the fingers, there are also some tools available that will take your technique up a notch and leave you fresh-faced and glowing. 

Choose Your Tool

1. Jade roller – this is a small jade stone with a handle that you roll over the contours of your face. It smooths the skin, and if you use it straight from the fridge has a cooling effect that helps add a healthy glow
2. Gua sha – this ancient Chinese tool has been used for thousands of years to work deeply on muscles all over the body. It can also be used for lymphatic drainage of the face. Glide the cool shaped stone (commonly made from jade or rose quartz) along the face to release energy blockages and boost the lymphatic system. 
3. Microcurrent devices – these are at the higher end of the market, and use an electrical current to tense the muscles. As well as training the muscles of the face, they also stimulate the lymphatic system. 

What Else Do I Need?

Well, it’s massage, so you’ll need a good oil. It is important to invest in a high-quality facial oil to ensure the right ‘slip and glide’ when executing your facial massage moves. Don’t forget, tugging or pulling the delicate skin of the face will have the opposite effect to what you are aiming for! 

Any Oil?

For facial lymphatic drainage massage, choose something gentle, such as natural jojoba oil. Not only is it lightweight and breathable, it also dissolves sebum, so it will stop your face looking shiny throughout the day. It’s also great for combination skin and gentle enough for everyone to use. Another good all-rounder is virgin coconut oil – but make sure you go for the purest form of coconut oil. Of course, you can always splash the cash on high-end facial massage blends or serums, but the major benefits will come from your massage moves, so there is no need to spend too much on products. 

Facial Lymphatic Drainage – Finger Techniques

If you’re using your fingers, massage your face lightly, always working upwards (you should never pull the skin of the face down). Use gentle sweeping movements from the middle of the face toward the lymph nodes located around the neck and ears. Follow this with gentle pulsing motions underneath the eyes, which will help to drain any fluid away and help you look brighter. This is a great move to do in the morning before your cleansing and toning routine. Alternatively, you can combine a facial lymphatic drainage massage with your favourite guided meditation for added relaxation at the end of the day. 

Facial Lymphatic Drainage – Gua Sha Techniques

Hold the gua sha in your hand and glide it over your face with long, slow strokes. You should always work outward, from the centre of the face, and drain towards the lymph nodes in the neck and behind the ear. The gua sha’s unique shape makes it perfect for contouring the jawline. Best results are seen with consistent use, so aim for 10 minutes every morning for at least a week. Take a before and after photo for evidence!

Facial Lymphatic Drainage – Jade Roller Techniques

If you’re trying facial lymphatic drainage massage using a jade roller, the technique is similar to that of the gua sha. You’ll be rolling your tool out from the centre of the face, gently over the under-eye area, and draining towards the lymph nodes in the neck. More vigorous rolling over the muscles of the neck area (always going upwards) can also help the lymphatic system process the extra fluid. 

Pro-tip – store your gua sha or jade roller in the fridge as the extra cool stone will really aid in de-puffing and waking up tired eyes. 

Keep it Going!

As with other treatments, consistency is key. This means a daily practice after cleansing and using your usual serum or moisturiser is likely to give you some good results fairly quickly. Adding 10 minutes to your morning routine is a small price to pay for the potential benefits of de-puffed skin, brighter eyes, and a youthful glow!