Lymphatic drainage is starting to become popular again. First, it was the Chinese gua sha tool that took the internet by storm. The jade curved stone would slim faces down by doing a facial lymphatic drainage. Now, a similar massage brush is making the rounds on TikTok while full-body drainage massages get promoted. But what is lymphatic drainage really and where can you get one of these massages? Consider this your nifty guide to the relief treatment.
The ‘Drain’ in Drainage Massage
If you’re wondering what exactly is getting drained in these massages, it is the body’s lymph. Lymph is fluid in your body that supports your overall health. It’s how nutrients get carried across, and it also helps when your body is internally injured. They do this through the lymphatic system and can typically work and drain on their own. But with stress, medical issues, trauma, and other factors, your lymph can get stuck, collecting in your body and making it swell. So, a gentle massage helps to ease it back to its natural state.
The Benefits of a Drainage Massage
Blocked lymph is more dangerous than one would think. The obvious signs of poor lymph drainage are swelling, which can later cause pain, especially when moving naturally. Other issues include poor digestion, bloating, fatigue, brain fog, and skin issues. For skin especially, severe blocked flow can lead to a change in skin texture, making it thick and hard.
So a drainage massage is more medical than it is cosmetic. It can alleviate water retention and bloating, improve digestion and the skin, including cellulite and skin tone, help with congestion and stress relief, and overall detoxify the body.
So, How Does it Work?
A drainage massage usually starts with a consultation to understand the body. Then the massage begins with stimulating the major lymph nodes, which are around the ears, jaws, clavicle, armpits, chest, abdomen, and groin. But stimulating these points, the masseuse is ensuring that the fluid will drain properly. The rest of the massage involves gentle motions along the body’s lymphatic pathways. After the massage, it is encouraged to drink plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated to maximise the benefits of the drainage.
Where to Get a Drainage Massage
So now that you know how a drainage massage works, and are fancying one, here are the spots worth considering:
Anantara | The Palm Dubai Resort
With a range of detoxifying massages to choose from, their Lymphatic Drainage Treatment is by far the gentlest one. After the massage, you can also indulge in their body scrubs or traditional hammam rituals.
RESYNC | Central Park Towers
Hosting a range of therapies to “resync” your body, their drainage massage is a Lymphatic Face Massage that drains the lymph stuck in the face. It helps boost blood circulation and reduce puffiness and breakouts.
SenAsia
With spas all across Dubai, SenAsia’s Maderotherapy delivers a lymphatic drainage massage with wooden tools designed to stimulate the lymphatic system. Also stimulating pressure points in the body, the session will leave you feeling lighter.
The Pearl Spa and Wellness | The Four Seasons, Jumeirah Beach
The award-winning spa offers two distinctive lymphatic treatments depending on your needs. The Lympho Palper Rouler is a quick, 30-minute treatment that uses Dr. Burgener Svelt Body Oil to slim and detoxify. Whereas their Perfect Shaping Ritual is a longer affair, and includes Cryofit bandages to help sculpt and shape the body.
The Hundred Wellness Centre | Jumeira 1
For those looking for a more holistic approach, the Lymphatic Drainage Massage at The Hundred Wellness Centre includes skincare and compression therapy and movement for optimal results and a well-rounded treatment.
Wellbeings Holistic Healing | Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
The holistic spa offers a Lymphatic Facial Drainage treatment along with other organic skincare rituals and massages. Combine them for a customised treatment or indulge in the facial as a quick treat.
