Let’s be honest, you’ve probably been hearing for a while now about the benefits of facial massages, gua sha, dry brushing and other tools that are supposed to drain lymph nodes in both the body and the face and help you to sculpt your features and eliminate flaccidity.

But how do these methods work? And are there studies to back them up? To answer this question, let’s first learn a little about the lymphatic system:

The lymphatic system is a network of organs, lymph nodes, ducts and lymphatic vessels that produce and transport lymph (fluid composed of proteins, salts, glucose and other substances) from the tissues back to the bloodstream, meaning it’s a crucial part of the body’s immune system and plays several important roles in maintaining overall health.

The lymphatic system has two key roles:

1. Immune defense: Lymph nodes filter pathogens and activate immune cells.
2. Fluid drainage: Helps prevent fluid accumulation in the tissues (edema). 

Lymph nodes are small bean-shaped structures that act as “filters,” removing bacteria, damaged cells and other toxins. They are found in strategic points all over the body and face such as the neck, armpits, groin and behind the knees.

Now it’s clear how important the lymphatic system is for our body, right? The thing is, its functioning can be affected by several factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, lack of hydration, stress, poor diet, smoking and even infections or chronic illness. 

Contrary to the circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have a pump (like the heart) and relies on body movement, breathing and muscle contraction to function efficiently. When this flow slows down, it can cause swelling, fatigue, fluid retention and skin problems such as cellulite or acne. That is why it is crucial to actively stimulate it in order to aim for overall good health.

How to activate lymphatic drainage: tools and techniques 

There are a variety of techniques to promote healthy lymphatic flow, many of which you can do at home.  Here are some of the most popular and some scientific research evidence to support them.

1. Gua Sha

Gua sha is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses flat stone tools, usually jade or rose quartz, to massage the skin in long, rhythmic strokes.

• How it works: Gentle pressure and upward movements stimulate the lymphatic vessels, helping to drain accumulated fluids into the lymph nodes for elimination. It also improves microcirculation, reduces muscle tension and helps the skin absorb the following products better.

• Benefits backed by science:
  • A study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that the use of gua sha can improve circulation on the surface of the skin and reduce local inflammation.
  • It has also been shown to decrease muscle soreness, making it an ideal choice for holistic wellness.

How to use:

• Apply an oil or serum to avoid friction.
• Make gentle movements from the center outwards, always in the direction of the lymph nodes (e.g., from the neck towards the collarbone).

Here are some of our favorite Gua Sha tools:

• Amazingy – Gua Sha Stone – Rose Quartz – The Amazingy Team’s favorite ♡

• The Glow – Gua Sha Mushroom – The perfect tool to massage your oils into the skin.

• Loïs Lee – Jade Beauty Gua Sha Stone – A 100% Xiujan Jade wonder!

2. Dry brushing

Dry brushing is a technique that uses a natural bristle brush to massage the skin, usually before showering.

• How it works: The circular, upward strokes stimulate the lymphatic vessels just beneath the skin, improving circulation and helping to eliminate accumulated toxins. It also exfoliates the skin, promoting a smoother, more even texture.

• Scientific evidence: Although direct studies on dry brushing are limited, its ability to improve circulation and skin health is well documented. In addition, it has been noted that it can increase body awareness, promoting a better mind-body connection.

How to use:

• Start at the extremities (hands and feet) and move toward the heart.
• Use gentle, long, circular movements.

Some Amazingy favorites:

• The Glow – Body Brush: A classic, handmade, natural bristle dry body brush.

• Ruhi – The Facial Dry Brush: medium-soft 100% natural bristles and a special shape for gently exfoliating your face? Say no more!

• Ruhi – The Ionic Dry Brush: Copper bristles brush that will take your dry brushing to another level by generating negatively charged ions on your skin – definitely worth a try!

3. Cupping for lymphatic drainage

Cupping involves placing small containers on the skin to create a vacuum that stimulates circulation. Although best known for relieving muscle aches and pains, it can also benefit the lymphatic system.

• How it works: The vacuum generated by cupping mobilizes lymph and improves blood flow. It also relieves muscle tension, which indirectly benefits lymphatic drainage.

• Scientific evidence: A study in Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine highlighted that cupping therapy improves circulation and reduces pain, although specific research on its impact on lymph is limited.

How to use it:

• You can use silicone cups and gently glide them over the skin with an oil, moving them towards the lymph nodes to create a natural lifting-effect.

• Ruhi – The Facial Cups: Handmade face cups made from medical grade rubber, free from harmful substances – and also important,  it’s effective! 

Conclusion — Taking care of your lymphatic health from a holistic approach

Lymphatic drainage tools such as gua sha, dry brushing and cupping are powerful tools for stimulating the lymphatic system, relieving fluid retention and promoting overall wellness. However, it is important to understand that these techniques, while effective, cannot work in isolation. They are complementary,  enhancing the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle – but they cannot replace the essential fundamentals of health.

The lymphatic system depends on constant movement and flow. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, do not hydrate properly or have a nutrient-poor diet, toxins and fluids tend to accumulate in the tissues, making it difficult for the lymphatic system to work. On the other hand, incorporating regular physical activities, such as walking, practicing yoga or even jumping on a small trampoline, is one of the most natural and effective ways to activate lymphatic circulation.

Hydration plays a key role. Without enough water, lymph thickens and its flow slows, making it difficult to eliminate toxins. Therefore, along with the use of these tools, it is essential to maintain a proper fluid intake and a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins and fiber to support the system from within.

Additionally, chronic stress can negatively affect both the lymphatic system and the immune system. Incorporating self-care practices, such as gua sha massages or dry brushing, can not only improve lymphatic circulation, but also provide a moment of relaxation and connection with yourself, helping reduce stress.

So yes, these tools are wonderful allies, but their true effectiveness depends on having aholistic approach to health overall. A balanced diet, an active body, a relaxed mind and proactive habits are the foundation that will make these techniques even more effective. It’s not about looking for quick fixes, but about creating a lifestyle that promotes long-term wellness.

Remember that taking care of your lymphatic system (and your whole body) is not just a superficial act of self-care; it is an investment in your overall health. By taking a holistic approach that combines these tools with an active, mindful lifestyle, you will not only improve the functioning of your lymphatic system, but also your energy, vitality and quality of life. And this is definitely the key to making your wellness a priority. So let us be part of your beautiful self-care ritual and allow your body to function at its best, day after day!

As always, if you have any questions or doubts, do not hesitate to contact our Amazing(y) team – we will be more than happy to help or advise you in any way we can! <3