How To Perform Lymphatic Drainage Self-Massage; Tips & Products

Image by Fleur Kaan

Lymph Drainage, Lymphatic Massage, Self-Manual Lymphatic; regardless of what you call it, you’re probably doing it wrong.

We have over four years of experience studying the body's lymph system, learning the proper techniques, and understanding the benefits of lymphatic drainage.

Over the years, we have worked alongside physicians and Certified Lymphedema Therapists to share the insight, tips, and tools to guide you.

For the love of your skincare routine, the lymph system, and your time, slow down - let’s back it up.

Image by Laura Jaeger

What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as manual lymph drainage (MLD), is a gentle form of massage performed to encourage natural drainage by manipulating specific areas of the body.

The act of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), when performed properly, manually moves built-up lymph fluid or waste from your tissues to appropriate lymph nodes into vessels to decongest. 

Yes, our bodies are tailored to do this naturally, but many factors can contribute to a sluggish lymphatic system that can lead to conditions like swelling, heaviness, puffiness, acne, dryness, dullness, and even skin sensitivity.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage offers several key benefits:

• Improved lymphatic system function: The massage stimulates the lymphatic vessels, promoting the drainage of excess fluid and toxins from the body.

  
  

• Enhanced immune system: By removing toxins and waste products, lymphatic drainage massage helps bolster the immune system, reducing the risk of illness and infection.

  
  

• Reduced swelling and inflammation: The massage technique can alleviate swelling and inflammation by facilitating the removal of excess fluid buildup in tissues.

  
  

• Detoxification: It aids in detoxifying the body by eliminating metabolic waste and toxins, resulting in clearer skin and improved overall health.

  
  

• Relaxation and stress relief: Lymphatic drainage massage promotes relaxation and reduces stress by calming the nervous system and promoting a sense of well-being.

  
  

• Alleviation of pain: It can help alleviate pain associated with conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and sports injuries by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.

We have studied the vast majority of lymphatic dysfunction ranging from cancers, cardiovascular disease states, and infectious diseases, but this time we are talking acute.

Acute phase: a recent onset with a short duration

*Please note, if you’re trying lymphatic manipulation for medical reasons, always look for someone who’s certified by the Lymphology Association of North America or is a member of the National Lymphedema Network.

Let’s divulge on the acute phase focusing on the face region. The “quick contour” that is running rampant. 

Image by Fleur Kaan

You know exactly what we are talking about.

That glass of wine you had during happy hour or the salty bowl of pickles for "girl dinner". The next day, you wake up feeling heavy and overall puffy around the eyes and jawline. 

Your lymphatic system, unlike your heart, does not have its own strong-willed pumping system. When lymph fluid is stuck, in specific areas like your face, it can cause a puffy appearance that can be flushed out by performing the gentle manipulation of self-manual lymphatic drainage (MLD).

Before you start, before you even look at that Gua Sha, we are invoking you to read this next part over twice - make that three times. 

One of our most monumental tips for lymphatic drainage self-massage:

The lymphatic system is superficial, meaning right underneath the skin. The amount of pressure exerted should be light, gentle, and kind.

This is not a deep tissue massage to your face! When too much pressure is applied, there can be more harm done than good. 

Think of when you reach out to shake the hand of a colleague, father-in-law, or even friend. Go in for the handshake and think of the pressure used (unless you have been told you are an aggressive handshake, then calm down).

Image by Klara Kulikova

Tips before you start ...

Slow Down - Ideally, this practice of guiding lymph fluid to decongest should be slow and relaxed for the full potential benefits. 

Consistency - For those of you who are new to lymphatic drainage, consistency is essential for best results. The thing with lymph fluid is that it naturally comes back. Staying consistent will allow for real rejuvenation, immune health, and defined structure. This will also enable lymph fluid or waste to remain at bay, garnering benefits in the long term.

The Preparation & Tools

Prep - Always prep with your preferred oil. We adore Jojoba oil, as the collagen production to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties alone is just the beginning of the obsession.

The SUNDAY RILEY C.E.O Glow face oil embodies jojoba oil, along with seven additional elite ingredients. The hydration and glow behind this oil prove why this continues to be our main character. 

Image by Kelly Sikkema

Tools: These different tools can be adapted to only ease the repetition of it all.

The everyday must-haves include the Mount Lai Jade Gua Sha, and for travel the Sacheu Gua Sha stainless steel - if you have ever dropped one of these bad boys, you will understand why a stainless steel travel tool is necessary, overall a more secure and solid. 

There is an ocean of lymphatic rollers out there. The loyalty resides with both the Mount Lai Jade roller (our first love) and Skin Gym roller (our new love). The Nurse Jamie UpLift is our obvious hero. The brigade behind UpLift has been consistent and worthy, proving to tone, brighten, and perk up the universal face time and time again. 

Image by Wix

The Kansa Wand is derived from Ayurvedic medicine. This miraculous drainage wand is designed to stimulate blood flow and boost a glowing complexion and pH balance.

Lastly, Jennifer Aniston’s every week accomplice (ours too!), the Jillian Dempsey Gold Bar, is the firming, sculpting, awaking tool in our back pocket. 

How to perform Lymphatic Drainage Self-Massage:

*Quick Note - The body is made up of over 500-800 lymph nodes, 3/4 of those lymph nodes being in the head and neck/ face region, be gentle. Manual lymphatic drainage massage involves two steps, clearing a pathway and movement/drainage of fluid.

Deep breaths are prioritized to encourage relaxation and drainage during MLD.

1. Always start at the collarbones, and neck region, opening up a pathway to properly drain - applying light pressure with gentle tapping and strokes in a circular motion. This manual movement should be performed on both collarbones usually ten times each.

2. Start at the top of the neck (circling to the back of the neck as well) to gently stretch the skin downwards to your collarbone. Make your way to the jawline, you will mimic this movement starting proximal (towards the center of the face) and moving distal (towards your hairline) on each side gliding towards the ears. Climbing up to the cheeks, eyes, and eventually the forehead, continuing the proximal to distal light pressure movement. This concludes the clearing step.

3. In a similar movement, start to work back down for the drainage portion. Forehead, eyes, cheeks, jawline, front, and back of the neck, and finally back to stimulating the collarbones. 

Video by Shutterstock

Following the lymphatic massage, we always pair the routine with a cryo facial set. Speaking truthfully, it’s our favorite part. Jenny Patinkin Cryo and the Beautyology Lab Cryo set have been shown to increase blood flow, minimize pore appearance, contour, and firmness, and reduce puffiness, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Hair trends Cryo set also has a noteworthy status to remarkably revitalize. From our experience, both have been shown to appreciably reduce the symptoms of a hangover at a time or two. 

Stay consistent with the motions, tools, and breathwork - you’ll appreciate the addiction. 

Thoughts? Comment below!

Medical Disclaimer: It’s the legal language. 

The content here is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended for medical advice nor does it take the place of medical advice or treatment from a physician. While lymphatic drainage massage for the face is generally considered safe, talk to your doctor first if you have any health concerns—especially conditions such as congestive heart failure, blood clots, kidney problems, infections, or circulation problems.