What Does Lymphatic Drainage Do for Skin?
Jul 01, 2025 06:00AM ● By Susan Gonzalez
When considering facial rejuvenation, the term lymphatic drainage is often heard. For many, if a device or technique is said to “promote lymphatic drainage,” it somehow takes on a magical value that’s hard to resist. Why? What is so important about lymph to the face, specifically the skin quality and appearance, that makes it so sought after?
To answer that, it’s important to understand the function of the lymphatic system as a whole, focusing on the head and neck.
- tubules. These are pathways that carry the lymph fluid, connecting the nodes to the lymphoid organs
- lymph nodes. These are small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph fluid and house cells vital to the immune system
- lymph fluid. Composed of water, white blood cells, salts, fats and proteins, this fluid runs through the lymphatic system but is in close communication with the circulatory system.
- lymph organs. The thymus, spleen, tonsils, bone marrow and adenoids each play a role in the lymph system.
There are 600 lymph nodes in the body, and 300 of them are located in the head and neck region. It’s not hard to see why face and neck lymphatic drainage is important.
It should be noted that the lymph system is a closed system and is closely tied to the circulatory system. Fluid from blood plasma—the liquid part of the blood—ebbs and flows in and out of the lymphatic system and into the circulatory system based on need. However, the exchange of fluid is regulated largely by the lymphatic system. The lymphatic flow uses muscular contraction to help push the lymph fluid along through the tubules. There are valves in the lymph tubules that keep the flow heading in the right direction. Muscular contraction is vital for a healthy lymphatic system.
So why is facial lymphatic drainage so important? Healthy, luminous skin relies on the optimal function of all parts of the skin. Skin cells need nutrients, fats and proteins to regenerate new skin cells and create collagen, while waste and toxins need to be removed quickly so cells can function optimally. The lymphatic system does just that. Further, those with acne, eczema or unhealthy skin conditions have an even greater need for the lymph system to bring healing nutrients and remove excess fluid and waste to heal.
The bottom line is that luminous skin requires a constant in-and-out flow of lymph fluid.
CALLOUT: Skin cells need nutrients, fats and proteins … and waste and toxins need to be removed quickly. The lymphatic system does just that.
How to Promote Lymphatic Drainage
There are several effective ways to increase lymphatic drainage from the face and neck. Four key strategies are exercise, hydration, breathwork and manual lymphatic massage.
When it comes to lymph, any exercise moves the fluid. Check out the Mayo Clinic’s head and neck lymph drainage exercises to get started at bit.ly/msk-head-neck. Even activities like walking, yoga, tennis, or anything else that involves movement can help. Vibration plates have recently emerged as a great way to easily keep the lymph fluid moving. Doing simple routines while standing on a specially constructed vibration platform is an easy way to move lymph while also increasing balance, strength and bone density and creating collagen in the face.
Staying hydrated. Maintaining a healthy level of hydration is important for many reasons, and improving lymphatic drainage is a big one. When the body is dehydrated, stress occurs. Dehydration can cause both the blood and the lymph to become thicker, which slows down the flow. (Think of pouring apple juice vs. molasses). Drinking plain filtered water is best compared to drinking sweet beverages or coffee since the body has to break those products down in order to use their water. Easy tips to remember are to drink a liter of water before lunch and drink half your body weight in ounces daily.
Dry brushing. Dry brushing is an Ayurvedic practice that involves a body massage using brushes with stiff bristles. When done properly, it can exfoliate the skin and increase circulation. The gentle movements, done in a specific pattern, help with lymphatic flow and improve lymphatic function and detoxification. This video demonstrates how to dry brush yourself: bit.ly/dry-brushing-0725.
Massage. Manual lymphatic drainage massage can also be performed by specially trained practitioners such as physical therapists, massage therapists, estheticians and other medical professionals. The service is gentle, rhythmic and very relaxing. The practitioner can use their fingers, a light suction device or light suction cups for the service. In some cases, professional lymphatic drainage may be prescribed by a facial surgeon to help with swelling after facial surgery. True facial lymphatic drainage massage is technical and requires special certification in the technique, so be sure to see a qualified therapist.
Skin health and appearance can benefit from techniques that improve and encourage lymphatic drainage. It’s not always necessary to seek out a special practitioner as there are many self-care practices that give great results and don’t cost anything. Topical skincare products are important, but don’t forget to address what’s beneath the surface!
Important: Those with swollen lymph nodes, those being treated for cancer or anyone with serious illnesses should consult their medical practitioner before engaging in any lymphatic drainage techniques. ❧
Susan Gonzalez is a holistic licensed esthetician, author, nurse and owner of MOON Organics, a skincare company providing clean, healthy skincare and personal care products. Reach her on FB, IG and TW:@MoonOrganics or visit MoonOrganics.com.
