Everything You Need To Know About Lymphatic Drainage Facials, From Experts

Massage work is a fundamental step in most professional facials, as expertly kneading the skin can promote better product absorption, stimulate circulation, and help sculpt the muscles. It's arguably the best part of the lineup (IMO), as it not only improves skin appearance but also ensures a relaxing experience—for many, it's a significant part of what makes a facial such a treat.

However: "The lymphatic system relies on muscle contraction, diet, exercise, and physical manipulation to function normally. Unlike the circulatory system, your lymphatic system doesn't have its own pump. That's where lymphatic massage comes in," says celebrity esthetician Renée Rouleau. See, you have a high concentration of lymph nodes in your face and neck, so specific movements can help encourage flow—an esthetician or licensed acupuncturist might use their hands, a gua sha stone, or facial cupping tools (although, professional facial cupping treatments will likely follow an acupuncture session). 

Of course, every treatment is different, depending on the professional you see. However, the esthetician or acupuncturist will likely begin by applying some sort of serum or oil to avoid any friction. Then comes the specialized movements: Says Akram, your expert might start from the center of the face (near the nose) and work outward, ending at the collarbones.

"You may find your esthetician incorporating the use of a jade roller or gua sha to enhance the draining experience," she adds. "These are great tools; however, when draining the lymphatic systems, the key is a very light and gentle touch. You don't want to drag the skin, which can create lines or wrinkles."

A lymphatic drainage facial is associated with many skin care benefits—but it should not be confused with a basic facial massage. In fact, lymphatic massage has actually been used as a centuries-old medicinal practice, as the lymphatic system is part of the immune system. So if you're immunocompromised in any way, please speak with a doctor before deciding to manipulate this essential network. 

On that note, allow us to reemphasize how important it is to find the right professional. "We suggest finding an esthetician trained in this type of treatment," says esthetician Darya Rzaca, co-founder of Atelier Beauté. "It consists in pressing and rubbing the skin through the use of specific techniques and specialized movements to push the accumulated fluid under it," which requires a very practiced hand. 

As for the service itself, it likely won't require any downtime on the skin care front. "The only thing that comes to my head with lymphatic drainage is that it can leave you feeling exhausted," says esthetician Aneta Zuraw, co-founder of Atelier Beauté. After all, it takes work for your body to flush out all of that accumulated waste! That said, you may need to rest for the day—it might not be best to jump into any strenuous activity. It's more common after a full-body lymphatic drainage massage but an important warning nonetheless for facials, too.