We’re all just living our lives at the mercy of the almighty algorithm and if you’re as beauty obsessed as we are, you’ve likely stumbled upon those lymphatic face brushes on TikTok or Instagram.
Lymphatic brushes join the ranks of depuffing tools like gua shas, face rollers and dry brushes, most working to stimulate lymphatic drainage, your body’s natural detoxification process. “Unlike the vascular system, which relies on the heart to pump blood throughout the body, the lymph system doesn't have its own pressure pump,” explains Tammy Fender, holistic practitioner and founder of eponymous skincare line and spa. “Instead, lymph collects the body’s metabolic waste and toxins, then drains based on our movement, like walking or exercise but also through manual movements.”
However, not all methodologies are actually meant to promote lymphatic drainage, says Cecily Braden, an esthetician, spa educator and eponymous brand founder. For example, gua sha and dry brushing are best used to support blood flow and microcirculation, which helps feed the cells nutrient-rich plasma. “Beauty rollers can promote lymphatic flow, but to effectively increase lymphatic circulation, the tissue must be engaged in a precise way that supports the natural function of the lymphatic vessels,” she adds.
According to Braden, the best methods to increase lymph flow to drain fluid and waste from tissue are manual lymphatic drainage (using one’s hands) or using lymphatic brushes. “To manually manipulate the lymphatic vessels, it takes a deeper understanding of the pathways and plenty of patience to consistently gauge and apply the correct pressure throughout your routine. Performing the movements on yourself is very different and often much harder than working on a client,” she explained.
Do lymphatic brushes actually work?
Fender notes that lymphatic brushing can be very effective, but it’s best done consistently and over time to achieve cumulative effects, rather than a one-and-done treatment. “That said, for some who experience very intensive puffiness or whose skin has taken on a dull pallor, the results might be powerful and quick,” she says. Braden emphasises that not all lymphatic brushes are created equally. "Some can be either too hard or too soft and use unknown bristle materials that are reported to scratch the skin and cause sensitivities,” she adds. The right brush will help quell inflammation and promote lymphatic drainage to deliver multiple and lasting benefits.
The benefits of lymphatic face brushes
In general, the benefits of lymphatic drainage far outweigh any drawbacks. “If you think of the skin as a fish tank, it’s easy to understand the importance of keeping the tissue fluid and the immediate environment around the cells clean and pristine,” says Braden. “By supporting lymphatic drainage to filter out cellular waste, it enables the fish (your cells) to get nutrients without obstruction, all while reducing inflammation in the tissue, which is the common denominator for most skincare concerns.” Fender agrees, adding that removing toxins helps your skin (the body’s largest organ, by the way) to shift from “defense mode” to “repair mode.” “This brings a fresh new radiance to the complexion and can help increase a revitalising feeling for the whole being,” Fender says.
The drawbacks of lymphatic face brushes
In most cases, any downsides of lymphatic face brush usage will come courtesy of user error. “The pressure you use with a lymphatic face brush should be so very light, never tugging or pulling in a way that would cause ageing to the skin,” says Fender, noting that when people think ‘detoxification,’ they tend to go overboard. “The lymph layer sits very close to the skin’s surface, and if you use too much pressure you can’t move the fluid. You actually trap it.” Let the tool do all the work. It’s also worth noting that using too much pressure or a lymphatic brush with coarse bristles may irritate rosacea- or acne-prone skin.
Because the lymphatic brush is used regularly, you’ll want to make sure you stroke it across clean, dry skin and quickly clean it with a 70 percent alcohol spray after. You can do a deeper clean with antibacterial soap (like you would a makeup brush) as needed.
What are signs that your lymphatic system is draining?
The two easiest ways to tell if your lymphatic system is draining well is noticing clearer, brighter skin and reduced puffiness around the eyes, says Fender. “Some of the most important signs are also very subtle,” she adds. These signs can include a wide range of sensations and physical changes, notes Braden. This could be everything from improved mental clarity, focus and stress response to a reduction in bloating, gastrointestinal discomfort and headaches.
However, if you’re feeling a little discomfort or nausea immediately after a lymphatic drainage treatment, that’s normal. “As the body processes and drains excess fluid, congestion and the accumulation of wastes, it may cause temporary pain,” says Braden. As the fluid drains and tissues soften, pain should be relieved (with restored mobility, too).
This article first appeared on Vogue.com
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