What is a lymphatic drainage facial massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage is a procedure aimed at improving the flow of lymph. This clear yellowish fluid is formed from the blood and returns to the blood after passing through filters – lymph nodes. In general, the composition of these media is similar, but lymph has much more immune cells in the blood. It helps the body fight infections and eliminate harmful substances.
Lymph nodes and blood vessels are an important part of the immune system.
How lymphatic drainage facial massage works
This method originally came about to help cancer patients. During tumour removal, it is often necessary to remove the surrounding lymph nodes as well. As a result, the architecture of the entire system is disrupted, so fluid starts to accumulate in some part of the body.
For example, in breast cancer surgery, the axillary lymph nodes are dissected out if necessary, and the swelling occurs in the arm. It swells, becomes heavy, cold and painful. This is an agonising condition, so doctors look for ways to help such people.
There are other diseases that are accompanied by problems with lymph flow, such as vein diseases.
The effect of the procedure is explained by the fact that we affect the lymphatic vessels, improving lymph flow and blood circulation.
This method has a proven effectiveness, thanks to which it has been taken into their practice by cosmetologists. It should be said that a healthy person does not have as such violations of lymph flow on the face. Nevertheless, massage is able to reduce swelling and improve the complexion.
In addition, it has been found to help fight swelling, for example, after tooth extraction.
How to realise that you need a lymphatic drainage facial massage
The effect of lymphatic drainage massage is most noticeable in people with facial puffiness.
For example, if in the morning you see increased bags under the eyes, which pass during the day, you can try to do this massage.
Who can not do lymphatic drainage facial massage
Contraindications to lymphatic drainage massage are similar to those for any other type of massage:
exacerbation of skin infections such as herpes, staphylococcal and streptococcal diseases (boils, sycosis and other pustules on the face);
damage to the skin where the massage is performed – abrasions, burns, wounds;
acute conditions such as fever, stroke, hypertensive crisis;
recent head injury or other serious trauma;
nausea and vomiting.
Before prescribing a course, a specialist will learn everything about your condition to determine if massage is indicated.
Also, lymphatic drainage massage can be contraindicated for pregnant women (but this is more about body manipulation) and people with oncological diseases, since lymphatic vessels – one of the pathways of metastasis of tumours. Before the procedure, you should consult with your doctor.
Is it possible to do lymphatic drainage massage at home?
Yes, in principle, this is a procedure that you can master on your own. It will not be as effective as an appointment with a professional masseur, but a small swelling will help to remove.
Facial massage should be done strictly along the massage lines, observing the technique and force of pressure. Therefore, of course, the masseur will carry out the procedure better. But this does not mean that it can not be done at home.
