We all love a good massage, but if, in addition to the pleasure and relaxation we get from it, we know that we're improving our body's health, then it's gold on blue. This is 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 - the lymph - which runs through practically our entire body. Its main function is to cleanse the body of toxins (those we absorb from the outside and the metabolic "waste" the body produces) and protect us against harmful agents. In addition to the detox 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 get the idea: 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 lots of water and practicing a good yoga flow), and one of them is lymphatic drainage. The aim is to get the lymph circulating, setting the 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 to facial drainage
This all sounds incredible, 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 change - we'll explain everything.
1. choose your shaping tool
The first step is to choose the beauty tool you like best for the massage. Widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Gua Sha is a fabulous tool for lymphatic drainage, helping to eliminate toxins, but also to moisturize, tone and rejuvenate the skin. As well as smoothing out wrinkles and reducing swelling, facial massage with Gua Sha activates blood circulation and is excellent for reducing stress. Choose the Gua Sha in the stone you most identify with (Rose Quartz or Jade) to extract all the benefits of this restorative massage and repeat the process twice a day, with the help of a serum so that Gua Sha glides more easily over the skin. For a more localized and specific massage, in the more delicate areas around the eyes and mouth, the Gua Sha mushrooms Mushrooms are the ideal, "tailor-made" option, in which case we recommend using the Effective Serum.
With the right pressure, Gua Sha will massage the deeper tissues, promoting lymphatic drainage. Another option is facial rollerwhich also comes in different crystal types and is excellent for activating blood circulation.
And finally, the cuppinga therapeutic method that consists of using silicone cones of different sizes depending on the area of the face, to create a gentle suction on the skin, with the aim of stimulating blood circulation and preventing tissue congestion. Cupping is excellent for activating the lymphatic system and helping to release toxins, for cleaner, firmer, inflammation-free skin
2. Apply the serum
Whichever tool you choose, you'll need a good serum so that it glides more easily over the skin, getting the lymphatic system moving. Sculpt is a lightweight serum specifically formulated to be used in conjunction with shaping tools. With pomegranate and rosehip oil, it is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, with an anti-aging action that is effective in renewing cells and protecting against sun damage.
For the more sensitive eye area, and for use in conjunction with the Gua Sha mushrooms, we recommend the Effective Eye Contour Lifting 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 is asking for it). Then pass the shaping tool over the different areas of the face. To work, lymphatic drainage should be done with slow, upward movements, always from the inside out, from the center of the face towards the cheek line. Repeat the movements at least five times on each side of the face. In some areas, such as around the eyes and on the sides of the mouth, make small circular movements.
Massage should be done gently and without rushing, going over every centimeter of skin, and with some pressure, but not too much. It's normal for your skin to "light up" reacting to the stimulus, turning slightly pink, but don't overdo it. In the case of cupping, the cones should always be moving.
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 inside.
