Lymphatic drainage body massage is a very effective, not so much a cosmetic, but a therapeutic procedure. The effect of such a massage is amazing. The technique is relatively young: it was invented in the second half of the 20th century. Initially it was used to get rid of edema in the postoperative period. However, over time, lymphatic drainage massage has become popular in sports medicine and cosmetology. It is used for figure correction, rejuvenation, rehabilitation after injuries and surgeries, and recovery after hard training.
How does lymph flow affect appearance?
The lymphatic system is responsible for hydrobalance and removal of toxins from the body. The faster the lymph flow passes, the better the body is cleansed of waste products. A sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, dehydration, and age slow down the flow of lymph, so harmful substances and excess fluid accumulate in the body. This leads to puffiness and dull complexion.
Due to stagnation of lymph, the tissues become loose, and constant swelling leads to stretching of the skin and disruption of the clear contour. A light lymphatic drainage massage can stimulate the functioning of the lymphatic system, speed up the removal of toxins and excess fluid from the intercellular space. Thanks to this effect, metabolism improves, the skin becomes more elastic, fresh, and toned.
About the procedure
Lymph is a clear liquid that plays a large role in many processes in the human body. This component performs many different functions in the body, such as transporting necessary substances into the blood, removing toxins from the body, carrying out lipid metabolism, and metabolism. Lymph is also involved in the healing process of various wounds and abrasions, which is why, when the skin is injured, you can see that very clear liquid that is released onto the surface of the skin along with droplets of blood.
It is important for the lymphatic system to function properly
Interesting! The lymphatic system also plays an important role in maintaining the proper functioning of the body's cells. Therefore, if any malfunction occurs in the lymphatic system, the skin begins to gradually change, which is why the first signs of aging begin to appear.
Lymphatic drainage massage can increase lymph flow, improving the condition of facial skin. The peculiarity of the technique of this massage is that movements during the session are always carried out along the lines of the lymphatic vessels, which causes the lymph flow to accelerate. Thanks to accelerated lymph flow, toxins and waste begin to leave the patient’s body at high speed.
Lymphatic drainage massage improves facial skin condition
Lymphatic drainage massage is currently very popular and in demand, especially among women. That is why the procedure can be performed in almost any cosmetology salon. But if for some reason the patient does not have the opportunity to visit a cosmetology clinic, it is quite possible to learn this massage at home, since this technique does not involve any complex manipulations.
This massage is especially popular among women
Indications for the procedure
Lymphatic drainage massage is especially useful for those who suffer from morning swelling, pastiness, and the first wrinkles. People over 40 years old have every reason to regularly visit a massage therapist to eliminate the following cosmetic defects:
- fuzzy oval face, jowls, double chin, drooping eyelids;
- expression and age wrinkles;
- double chin;
- nasolabial folds;
- dull skin tone.
The procedure also helps relieve the feeling of stiffness in the facial muscles and relieve fatigue.
Regular sessions of lymphatic drainage massage transform your appearance. Even a slight impact can lift cheekbones, reduce cheeks, and slightly correct the shape of lips. The effect on tissue redistributes lymphatic fluid and saturates dermal cells with oxygen.
Despite the fact that the result after a massage lasts for several days, it can be easily maintained with regular visits to the massage therapist. The visual effect comes quickly, so you can come for a lymphatic drainage facial massage before important events and photo shoots, when you want to look great.
Types of procedure
There are many facial massage techniques: from original ones, for example, Japanese Zogan massage, to classical medical ones. Techniques are divided into three types according to the degree of impact:
- superficial – refreshes the skin on the face, removes puffiness, tones;
- deep – stimulates metabolic processes, eliminates age-related lymphostasis;
- projection – aimed at lymph and lymph flow.
In addition to manual massage, there are hardware techniques. Physiotherapeutic devices influence the lymphatic vessels using vacuum, currents, and ultrasound. Hardware techniques include:
- Electrophoresis is a procedure in which a drug applied to the patient’s face is injected into the deep layers of the dermis under the influence of current. Weak discharges are painless. They feel like a slight tickling and tingling sensation. Electrophoresis improves local blood circulation and permeability of cell membranes.
- Galvanization – facial massage with low-frequency current. The method stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, accelerates lymph flow and metabolism.
- Microcurrents are an electrical effect on the epidermis from different sides, accelerating blood circulation and the flow of lymphatic fluid.
- Vacuum hardware massage is an effect on the skin using a compressor with a flask, the pressure inside of which is constantly changing. Soft tissues are drawn into the flask and relax. Vacuum is especially effective for restoring lymph outflow in patients over 45 years of age.
Manual and hardware massage techniques bring the same benefits. The choice of technique depends on the doctor’s prescription and patient preferences.
Methods of facial lymphatic drainage
Lymphatic drainage on the face is carried out in various ways.
Manual and mechanical lymphatic drainage
Manual lymphatic drainage is the most common and perhaps the most effective method. The massage therapist’s hands help the lymph move through the tissues towards the lymph nodes, create additional tissue pressure, and correct the functioning of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles.
Mechanical compression (compressive lymphatic drainage)
Mechanical compression includes wraps, masks, and pressotherapy. All these methods greatly influence the rate of lymph filtration.
Compression wrapping involves the use of film or bandages. Under the influence of tight bandaging, interstitial pressure increases, and the formation (filtration) of lymph is accelerated.
Pressotherapy is a procedure using a special “boot” equipped with cuffs. The cuffs consistently compress the tissue, enhancing the filtration of lymph and moving it through the vessels.
Plasticizing masks - mineral and alginate - increase pressure on the skin gradually as it hardens. The effect of such a mask is similar to the effect of compression lymphatic drainage (pressotherapy) on the limbs.
Hardware lymphatic drainage
Hardware (electronic) lymphatic drainage is carried out using pulsed current devices. Consecutive lymphatic drainage is carried out using devices for myostimulation. It is mandatory to have a sufficient number of autonomous channels of the device (minimum 4, designed for 16 electrodes) and a ring mode of their operation.
The electrodes are fixed in a strict sequence. A series of impulses are applied to the channels in turn, thereby achieving a “wave” of muscle contractions from the periphery to the lymph. It is carried out using electrodes of various shapes (metal balls or cones, electrodes with cotton swabs, glove electrodes).
Since the lymphatic vessels are equipped with valves, fluid moves through them only in one direction - to the lymph nodes. During the procedure, many such drainage “strokes” occur; as a result, the tissues have time to largely free themselves from excess fluid and metabolic products contained in it.
Sliding and microcurrent lymphatic drainage
Sliding lymphatic drainage is also carried out using pulsed current devices in microcurrent mode. The procedure uses a pair of movable electrodes. These can be metal electrodes or glove electrodes. The movements of the electrodes correspond to the lines of lymph outflow.
How does the procedure work?
Before a lymphatic drainage massage session, you need to cleanse the skin of impurities and drink a glass of warm, clean water to restore hydrobalance and prepare the lymphatic system for active circulation.
The massage therapist should have free access to the neck, collarbones, and armpits, so it is better to wear a top or T-shirt that opens these areas. They contain lymph nodes through which the flow of lymph from the facial tissues passes, so these places are also treated.
During the procedure, you need to lie on the couch, take a comfortable position so that your back and neck are in a straight line. The massage therapist applies cream or oil to the skin, gradually warming the skin with smooth circular movements.
The method of performing lymphatic drainage massage is based on several rules:
- all movements go from the central part of the face to the periphery;
- the nose and neck are worked from bottom to top;
- The area of the lower eyelids is massaged in the direction from the cheekbones to the bridge of the nose.
The movements are directed to the main lymph nodes located on the neck, under the collarbones, and in the armpits.
During the massage, it is important for the patient to monitor his condition and sensations. The effect on the skin should not be excessive or painful, so that the fragile lymphatic vessels are not damaged.
At the end of the facial massage, you need to rest for a few minutes and allow the soft tissues to recover. Then you can remove the remaining cream and drink some clean water again.
The frequency of sessions depends on the condition of the patient’s skin and the doctor’s recommendations. Maximum of 3 sessions per week. To maintain the achieved effect, one lymphatic drainage massage per week is enough.
Hardware and manual massage
There are two types of lymphatic drainage massage, each of them has its own benefits.
Manual
Depending on the wishes of the final result, three types of this technique are used:
- Superficial acts at the level of skin capillaries. Circular techniques with light pressure are used. As a result, the movement of lymph accelerates, and the vessels become more elastic.
- During a deep massage, the doctor uses deep muscle layers and lymph vessels. The specialist uses intensive techniques to activate blood circulation. This technique is effective for solving problems in the hip area of the body.
- Acupressure - massage is performed on the areas of the lymph nodes.
Hardware
The mechanical influence on the patient’s body is exerted not by the doctor’s hands, but by special devices. Among other types of hardware massage, the most popular are:
- Pressotherapy is based on alternating intense pressure and periods of relaxation in individual parts of the body. For massage, special cuffs are put on the patient.
- Vacuum massage is performed with special attachments in which a vacuum is created. Pressure increases in the tissues, which activates lymph flow and blood circulation, causing the removal of excess fluid.
- Microcurrent therapy. The pulsed current, which is supplied through the electrodes, has a gentle effect. This type of massage is popular for facial lymphatic drainage.
Often, a specialist takes into account the patient’s indications and prescribes a hardware massage in combination with a manual massage.
How quickly does the effect appear?
In 90% of cases, the effect of the procedure is noticeable immediately. After the massage, swelling disappears, complexion improves, a healthy glow appears, and skin tone evens out. In the process of completing a full course of 6-12 sessions, wrinkles are noticeably reduced, folds are smoothed out, and the facial contour becomes clear.
Due to the fact that lymphatic drainage facial massage activates the natural regenerative forces of tissues, elastin and collagen begin to be actively produced. These are “building materials” for the skin, responsible for its tone, youth, and healthy appearance. With age, their number decreases, but proper care and procedures stimulate production and slow down the aging process.
A full course of lymphatic drainage is comparable in effect to rejuvenating injection techniques. Moreover, the effect is completely painless and does not have a long recovery period. Regular visits to a massage therapist provide a lasting rejuvenating effect and improve skin condition.
Rules and features of facial massage
There are quite a large number of techniques for performing facial rejuvenating massage, and each has its own characteristics and nuances. That is why, first, you should read about the features of various types of massage, and then choose the technique that suits you most.
All nuances must be taken into account
Also, for proper massage, you need to know the location of the lymph nodes, since in this procedure the main impact should be on them. In this case, an anatomical atlas will be a good helper. It is necessary to know the location of all existing lymph nodes in the head area, from the occipital to the cervical.
Interesting! During the massage, all groups of lymph nodes should be affected; in this case, the procedure will be performed correctly, and the result will not be long in coming.
Knowing the location of lymph nodes improves the results of the procedure
Self-massage of the face
On the Internet you can find home lymphatic drainage massage techniques for doing it yourself. However, such procedures can be traumatic, since there are many nerve endings and fragile blood vessels on the face.
Professional massage therapists know the anatomy of the face and the paths of lymph flow. If you massage the skin in the wrong places and directions, you can get bruises, lymph congestion, bumps, rashes, new wrinkles, and creases. Incorrect technique for performing lymphatic drainage increases swelling and pastiness of tissues.
How much does a lymphatic drainage massage session cost in a beauty salon?
Since this procedure has many varieties, the price of a massage will depend on the manipulations that are included in it. The skill of the massage therapist and the credibility of the cosmetology clinic are also taken into account. It is worth recalling that in little-known cosmetology you can find no less qualified specialists than in expensive well-known salons.
We will indicate the cost of such a procedure in different cities of Russia.
| City | Cost of one procedure |
| Moscow | 1500 rub. |
| Saint Petersburg | 1320 rub. |
| Lipetsk | 1460 rub. |
| Vladivostok | 890 rub. |
| Rostov-on-Don | 1090 rub. |
| Makhachkala | 1200 rub. |
| Ufa | 940 rub. |
Combination with other procedures
Lymphatic drainage facial massage complements minimally invasive and non-invasive skin care procedures:
- superficial acid peeling;
- scrubbing;
- meso- and plasma therapy;
- microcurrent therapy;
- radiofrequency lifting.
After the session, not only lymph flow increases, but also local blood circulation, which increases the effectiveness of subsequent care. At the end of the facial massage, you can apply a moisturizing serum to the skin, make a cleansing or toning mask, and apply patches to the area under the eyes.
Effect and reviews of lymphatic drainage facial massage
The procedure has a pronounced cosmetic effect. Due to the outflow of venous blood and lymph, the appearance of the skin noticeably improves. Blood circulation is normalized, subcutaneous structures are tightened and accept oxygen more easily. The face becomes young, radiant and healthy. The circles under the eyes disappear, a perky blush appears.
Reviews about lymphatic drainage massage are excellent. After the procedure, not only your appearance improves, but also your mood. Many patients regain the opportunity to enjoy life.
Contraindications to the procedure
Main contraindications to lymphatic drainage massage:
- rosacea;
- disruption of the lymphatic system;
- ENT diseases, fever;
- pathologies of the respiratory system;
- allergic and other skin rashes;
- thin subcutaneous fat;
- oncological diseases;
- period of exacerbation of herpes infection;
- neuralgia of the facial nerves.
Massages are not performed for somatic disorders of the heart, kidneys or endocrine system. Also, lymphatic drainage is not recommended during menstruation, pregnancy, or lactation.
Before prescribing the procedure, you should tell your doctor about all diseases and possible allergic reactions so that the specialist can determine whether you have indications and contraindications for the procedure.
Contraindications and precautions
Despite the effectiveness of massage and good reviews from users, the procedure is not suitable for everyone. Lymphatic drainage techniques affect the deep layers of the skin; if the recommendations are not followed, the consequences can be very unpleasant. Massage is not recommended for girls under the age of 16, as well as people suffering from low blood pressure.
In the list of contraindications:
- recent rhinoplasty;
- ulcers and boils on the skin;
- psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, eczema in the treatment area;
- face too thin;
- diseases of the lymphatic system;
- cold or flu;
- overwork, depression;
- diseases of the ENT organs.
Intense massage may reduce the effectiveness of mesotherapy or contouring. Before starting home sessions, you should consult a cosmetologist.
After the first sessions, you need to carefully monitor your well-being. Dizziness, headache, nausea and other unpleasant symptoms indicate that this technique is not suitable for you. You should not massage immediately after eating or just before bed. The best time is morning or early evening.
Particular attention is required to problem areas: cheeks, chin, upper neck.
Cosmetology in
Lymphatic drainage facial massage is a pleasant and quick way to improve the condition of the skin, get rid of wrinkles and tension in the facial muscles. With the help of massage, you can improve the functioning of the lymphatic system, get rid of dark circles, bags under the eyes, morning puffiness, and swelling. But it is very important that the procedure is performed by an experienced massage therapist who knows the anatomy of the face and the correct direction of lymph flow.
At the VIP Academy diagnostic and treatment center, experienced specialists practice manual lymphatic drainage massage. To make an appointment for a consultation or procedure, leave a request by phone, email or through the call order form on the website.
Lymphatic drainage massage techniques
There are a large number of techniques used for this procedure. They can be used separately or in combination, combined with cosmetics to restore skin, etc. However, there are several movements that are the basis of lymphatic drainage massage:
- Stroking. They are carried out along special lines to avoid stretching the skin: along the forehead, from the corners of the eyes to the temples, from the line of the nose to the temples, from the middle of the chin to the earlobes, in the neck, shoulders and forearms. After the cycle is completed, it repeats in the reverse order.
- Clicks. Performed with moderate force, but with noticeable pressure to stimulate lymph flow. Manipulations are carried out along the above lines, after which the cosmetologist begins to move back to the forehead using ordinary light stroking.
- Kneading. Used in the area of the back of the head and scalp.
How often should I do this treatment? The decisive factor here is the individual characteristics of the body and the professionalism of the cosmetologist. It is on his skill, knowledge of the anatomy of the skin, the structure of the lymphatic and circulatory systems that 60% of the result and the durability of the effect depend.
