If lymphatic drainage massage isn’t on your skincare radar, you’re missing a trick. Not only does the technique eliminate puffiness and promote radiance, it also helps sculpt and define cheekbones like nothing we’ve ever seen before. But giving some TLC to our lymph system goes way beyond good cheekbones; experts believe that it might also be the key to restoring, and maintaining, optimum health. In his new book, Lymph & Longevity: The Untapped Secret to Health, Dr Gerald Lemole describes the lymphatic system as a “secret river” of colourless fluid that flows through the lymph vessels, the tiny tubes of the body’s lymphatic system, carrying nutrients and important chemical messages to the brain and other organs.

And yes, lymphatic drainage massages can help our body work through this process more effectively. We know, it’s hard to believe that lying flat on a table while enjoying a relaxing massage could actually be the health component missing from your current routine, but sometimes things just aren’t too good to be true.

The question is; what actually is a lymphatic drainage massage?

Lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage used to stimulate the lymphatic system, which is part of our circulatory and immune systems. Through lymphatic drainage, we stimulate the lymph nodes, accelerating the process of detoxing our body and eliminating excess water. Through the lymphatic system, we control the amount of water that our body retains or releases. A key element of lymphatic facial massage is the action of draining, which supports the lymphatic system – the hard-working part of our body that gets rid of toxins and excess fluids. It’s a gentle method focusing on health and detoxification. The technique releases tension in muscles and connective tissues of the face, neck and head, which in turn reduces stress and improves facial contouring.

We have 42 muscles on the face, all working hard to make expressions, hold stress and show emotion. When there’s tension in these muscles, or the lymphatic system is a little sluggish, it can result in puffiness in the face as well as other areas of the body. By using massage that follows the natural flow of the lymphatic system, it’s possible to help drain the fluids more efficiently. Boosting circulation, bringing fresh nutrients though blood flow to the skin, supporting healthy cell production, as well as taking a little moment for you, are all major benefits.

As a general rule, use the pads of fingers or a massage tool to gently press along the skin, starting in the middle of the face and work up and out towards the ears, before gently bringing it down the neck.

The Best At-home Face Massage Tools

In terms of tools, obviously you can use your hands, which are the perfect tool, but you can also use gadgets to give a different feel and effect.

Gua Sha: My favourite, a press-stroke treatment for face sculpting and lifting. This is a traditional Chinese medicine, which has a smooth crystal shape with different curves to use on different parts of the face. It is often jade or rose quartz and is ideal for draining, lifting and brightening, and perfect for neck and shoulder tension.

Remember: Always outward and upward gentle motions. Never use too much pressure.

Jade Rollers: Another old school holistic method with a smooth roller, often with two sizes to roll across the surface of the skin then focus around the eyes with the smaller. The way I like to use it is chilled – leave the tool in refrigerator overnight and use it in the morning for de-puffing. Trust me: it feels amazing.

Foreo: A silicone covered facial cleansing and massage device; that vibrates with a T-sonic vibration to work deeper through muscles and tissues to really boost results.

Remember: Start with once a week and slowly incorporate it into your daily routine

How often can I do face massage at home?

How long to see results?

What do I massage with?

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