We all enjoy a good massage, but if, in addition to the pleasure and relaxation we get from it, we know that we are improving our body's health, then it's pure bliss. That's exactly what happens with lymphatic drainage, a technique that can be applied to the body or face to get the lymphatic system moving and help the body eliminate toxins.
The lymphatic system is a complex network of nodes, vessels, glands, and organs filled with fluid – lymph – that runs throughout almost our entire body. Its main function is to cleanse the body of toxins (those we absorb from outside and the metabolic "waste" the body produces) and protect us against harmful agents. In addition to the detoxification process, it is through the lymphatic network that immune cells circulate to fight pathogens, such as bacteria and fungi, and prevent diseases and infections. You understand: a stronger lymphatic system means a cleaner body, and a more resistant and reactive immune response and defense. That's why it's so important to keep the lymphatic system moving.
Activate the detox
There are several ways to activate the lymphatic system (including drinking plenty of water and practicing good yoga flow), and one of them is lymphatic drainage. The goal is to get the lymph circulating, setting toxins in motion to be eliminated, combating stagnation and relieving the lymphatic system. This type of massage uses a specific amount of pressure and rhythmic movements to stimulate the lymph, encouraging its movement towards the heart to drain fluids and waste. Some studies indicate that lymphatic drainage returns up to 78% of stagnant lymph back into circulation.
3 steps for facial drainage
All of this sounds amazing, but how do we do facial lymphatic drainage at home? It's very simple, it only takes a few minutes a day and you'll quickly feel the difference - we'll explain everything to you.
1. Choose your styling tool.
The first step is to choose the beauty tool you like best for the massage. Widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gua Sha is a fabulous tool for lymphatic drainage, helping to eliminate toxins, but also to hydrate, tone and rejuvenate the skin. In addition to reducing wrinkles and puffiness, facial massage with Gua Sha activates blood circulation and is excellent for reducing stress. Choose the Gua Sha stone you identify with most ( Rose Quartz or Jade ) to extract all the benefits of this restorative massage and repeat the process twice a day, using a serum to help the Gua Sha glide more easily on the skin. For a more localized and specific massage, in the more delicate areas around the eyes and mouth, Gua Sha Mushrooms are the ideal, "tailor-made" option, and in this case we recommend using the Effective Serum .
With the right pressure, Gua Sha massages the deeper tissues, promoting lymphatic drainage. Another option is the facial roller , which also comes in different types of crystal and is excellent for activating blood circulation.
Finally, there's cupping , a therapeutic method that uses silicone cones of varying sizes depending on the area of the face to create gentle suction on the skin. The goal is to stimulate blood circulation and prevent tissue congestion. Cupping is excellent for activating the lymphatic system and helping to release toxins, resulting in cleaner, firmer, and inflammation-free skin.
2. Apply the serum.
Whichever tool you choose, you'll need a good serum to help it glide more easily over the skin, getting the lymphatic system moving. Sculpt is a lightweight serum, specifically formulated for use with sculpting tools. With pomegranate and rosehip oil, it's rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, offering anti-aging action and effective cell renewal and protection against sun damage.
For the more sensitive eye area, and for use in conjunction with Gua Sha mushrooms, we recommend the Effective Lifting Effect Eye Contour Concentrate Serum , which promotes lymphatic drainage and decongestion, helping to reduce dark circles and puffiness and smooth the eyelids.
3. Give yourself a massage.
And finally, the massage! Start by applying three to four drops of serum to your face (the serum is so light, you can apply more if your skin needs it). Then, use the shaping tool on different areas of your face. For lymphatic drainage to work, it must be done with slow, upward movements, always from the inside out, from the center of the face towards the cheekbones. Repeat the movements at least five times on each side of the face. In some areas, such as around the eyes and the sides of the mouth, use small circular movements.
The massage should be done gently and slowly, covering every inch of skin, with some pressure, but without exaggeration. It's normal for your skin to "light up" in response to the stimulation, becoming slightly pink, but don't overdo it. In the case of cupping, the cones should always be in motion.
The pressure should be gentle and create a pleasant sensation, relieving tension in the facial muscles, preparing the skin to absorb the benefits of the serum, and stimulating the skin on the surface and the lymphatic system from within.