The lymphatic system removes excess fluid from body tissues and deposits it back into the bloodstream. This is a continuous process our bodies carry out that we usually are not even aware is happening. We only become aware of it when it is not working efficiently. While lymphatic drainage of body tissues generally functions efficiently in healthy individuals, drainage of facial tissues can often become sluggish. Facial lymphatic drainage massage helps by encouraging the stagnant lymph fluid back into the lymphatic circulation. Stagnant fluid in the facial tissues can have various unwanted effects:
- Facial Puffiness: Swelling around the eyes
- Loss of Facial Definition: A bloated or fuller look along the cheeks and jawline where fluid pools due to gravity.
- Dull and Tired Skin: A lacklustre complexion caused by trapped interstitial fluid and waste products.
- Dark Circles: Discolouration or shadows under the eyes resulting from localized congestion and slowed microcirculation.
- Breakouts and Congestion: Clogged pores from stagnant fluid that can worsen acne and skin blemishes.
- Facial Heaviness or Tension: An uncomfortable, tight feeling in the skin, jaw, or sinus regions.
How facial lymphatic drainage massage is done
All lymphatic drainage massage involves the use of very light strokes. The tiny lymph vessels that we want to encourage to take the fluid away are situated just below the skin and regular massage pressure would squash them and stop this from happening. In order for lymph fluid to have a clear pathway towards the ducts where they drain into the bloodstream, we need to work backwards. The areas around the ducts are treated first, then the pathway from the affected tissues to the ducts and finally the tissues themselves. In facial lymphatic drainage massage, we first work on the area above the collar bones, which is where the ducts are. Then we clear the pathway from the face down the side of the neck towards the ducts. Finally, we can work on the face itself, encouraging fluid away from the face, towards the nodes around the ear area.
Why you might need facial lymphatic drainage
Stagnant fluid collecting overnight
The lymphatic system does not have a central pump like the heart; it relies entirely on movement, gravity and muscle contraction. When you are asleep, you lie flat for 7 to 8 hours. Gravity stops pulling fluid downward toward the neck, causing fluid to pool across the flat surfaces of the face—especially the thin tissue around the eyes. Fluid that may have collected in other parts of your body overnight will re-enter the lymphatic system as you start to move and your large body muscles assist with lymph circulation. The less powerful face muscles however aren’t as effective at assisting with lymph circulation.
Lymph vessel constriction
The lymph vessels of the face are tiny. They must all drain downward along a specific path towards the nodes of the ear and then the neck. Congestion in the sinuses, allergies, or tight jaw muscles (TMJ) can physically constrict these narrow pathways, slowing the exit of fluid.
Treatments available
Facial including lymphatic drainage massage
A regular facial (see here for description of treatment) with lymphatic drainage included in the face massage step
45 minutes £35
60 minutes £45
Face massage including lymphatic drainage
Face cleanse, then a combination of regular facial massage and lymphatic drainage facial massage
30 minutes £30
Book a lymphatic drainage facial massage
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