Lymphatic drainage, when properly applied, provides numerous benefits to the body, such as: elimination of toxins and liquids that cause lumps and swelling, increased tissue oxygenation, improved blood circulation and healthier looking skin. The technique is performed through massages, which aim to direct the fluid that is trapped between the cells to the capillaries of the lymphatic system, so that it then directs them until their elimination through the urine.
Despite being a simple aesthetic procedure and even recommended in postoperative cases, lymphatic drainage still raises doubts regarding the way it is done, its advantages and disadvantages. Meet eight lymphatic drainage myths:
1 ? Anyone is able to do lymphatic drainage professionally
They are only able to perform the procedure, physiotherapists, beauticians or professionals with technical courses in the area. In addition, it is advisable to go to a dermatologist before opting for lymphatic drainage as an aesthetic treatment, so that the practitioner indicates the most appropriate treatment for the problem.
2 ? Lymphatic drainage alone eliminates cellulite
The technique does help to reduce cellulite since one of its causes is fluid retention. However, drainage works effectively at the beginning of the problem, eliminating excess fluid and breaking the cycle that leads to cellulite formation. Therefore, when seeking specific treatment to eliminate the holes, the drainage becomes adjuvant, being necessary to seek other treatments.
3? Lymphatic drainage with appliances provides better results than manual drainage
Both forms activate blood circulation and tissue oxygenation. However, the manual is most recommended because the practitioner can directly observe the regions with the most lumps, swelling and edema and thus work harder in the affected places. The manual procedure is also recommended in postoperative cases to reduce edema.
4? Pregnant women cannot do lymphatic drainage
On the contrary: the procedure is quite indicated during pregnancy because the fluid retention increases during the period. The increase is because blood volume increases by about 50%, causing the capillaries to overflow and swelling. However, the technique should not be performed without medical authorization. In addition, it is recommended that a pregnant woman specialist perform drainage for special care.
5? Lymphatic Drainage Thins
In reality, drainage helps in weight loss indirectly. The technique promotes the elimination of liquids that are prone to fat accumulation, such as those located in the legs, butt and thigh. However, the body eliminates the liquid but not the fat itself. In this case, it is recommended to maintain a balanced diet and to exercise.
6? Lymphatic drainage is painful
Lymphatic drainage when done correctly should not cause pain or leave bruises on the body. Massage does not require much pressure because lymph (fluid that circulates in the lymphatic vessels or between cells) travels slowly over the surface of the skin. Therefore, it should be performed with little pressure, generating a feeling of well-being.
7? All lymphatic drainage causes urination to urinate
Not always. Some people feel like urinating at the end of the massage because of the large amount of water retention. But this is not a rule and therefore cannot be applied to everyone.
8? Lymphatic drainage ends acne
Drainage can promote an improvement in acne-looking skin because it eliminates toxins from the body. However, saying that drainage is responsible for eliminating blackheads and pimples is a myth. In this case, the most appropriate treatment should be indicated by a dermatologist.
6 Steps to Decongest the Lymph | John Douillard's LifeSpa (April 2024)
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