What is a Lymphatic Skin Tightening mask?
The mask is designed to work with your circulatory system creating reverse osmosis, which is a process to remove contaminants from your skin via the lymphatic system, and nourishing our cells and tissues via our blood supply. When our blood circulates around our body it provides nutrients (such as amino acids), water and oxygen to our cells and tissues. During the capillary fluid exchange (where water, amino acids, and oxygen cross the capillary wall into the extracellular fluid), fluids don’t travel very far into the surrounding tissue, and even less when there are blockages in your skin surface.
What is the science behind Lymphatic Skin Tightening?
Lymphatic Therapy works by applying short-term pressure to increase circulation, oxygenation and lymphatic drainage in your skin cells. Where some cosmetic facial treatments may only act on the surface of the skin, enzyme treatments work with the skin.
What are the results?
Enzyme therapy exercises facial muscles and works to leave the skin feeling firm. The outcomes can include:
- Glowing skin
- Even Skin Tone (Smoother)
- Firmer & Tighter
- More Hydrated (Plump)
- Reduced Fine Lines
Is it safe?
Lymphatic drainage is generally safe. However, check in with your healthcare provider BEFORE your treatment if you have:
- a high risk of blood clots
- congestive heart failure
- an active lymphatic infection
- swelling with no known cause
Expert opinion
Dermatologist Michael Detmar stated the aging process, coupled with sun damage, can result in fewer lymphatic vessels and a deterioration of lymphatic function. (Journal of Clinical Investigation, 2012)
“You might be able to make a case that you could reduce fluid buildup by having a facial to encourage drainage when your skin has fewer lymphatics. So promoting lymphatic flow can have benefits,” he said.
Although some therapists claim facial lymphatic drainage can have face lift like results, the evidence so far is mainly anecdotal, meaning it comes only from those who’ve tried it.
Can I do it myself?
It's best done with trained professionals but if you are looking for a DIY guide, my recommendation is to do a simplified version.
- Start with deep breathing. Rest your palms on your stomach and take a deep breath in through your nose until you feel your stomach pushing into your palms. Breathe out until your stomach is flat and repeat around five times.
- Get comfortable. You can choose to sit, stand, or lie down.
- Apply pressure. Using the palms of your hands, start at your forehead, applying gentle pressure to slowly stretch the skin down toward the lymph nodes in your neck. Keep going, moving all the way down your face.
- Use care around your eyes. For under your eyes, switch to your ring finger and use a rolling movement.
- Repeat. Repeat the process around five times in each area.
But again, for the best results, make sure to consult with your dermatologist or dermal therapist.
