From the word itself Manual Lymphatic Drainage, it involves the lymphatic system. Most people probably don’t know what lymphatic system is and what does it do for the body. It is part of the circulatory system, consisting network of lymphatic vessels that carry a clear fluid called lymph back to the blood. Unlike blood, which flows throughout the body in a continue loop, lymph flows in only one direction – towards the heart returning the lymph into the blood.
Another main function of it is providing defense in the immune system. It contains lymphocytes and other white blood cells. As we about our daily activities, we come into contact with all types of foreign bodies which have the potential to make us sick.
Manual lymphatic drainage is a highly specialised gentle massage using very accurate hand rhythm, pressure, and sequence applied on the face intended to encourage natural flow of the lymph in the head. Compared to the usual massage, the pressure applied with manual lymph drainage is much lower in strength. The massage works at a skin level manipulating the lymphatic structures located in the subcutaneous tissues to influence the direction and speed of lymphatic flow.
It supports the flushing of toxins from the body, drainage of sinuses, and reduction of fluid retention in the face. This is to re-route the flow of stagnated lymphatic fluid around blocked areas into more centrally located healthy lymphatic vessels which drains into the venous system. Aside from boosting the immune system, detoxification, and relieving congestion, MLD promotes healthy, well hydrated, firm, smooth, and glowing skin especially when paired with aesthetic equipment like dynamic pulsed light, iontophoresis, and radio frequency.
MLD is not just a usual aesthetic procedure; this technique requires knowledge and skills on working on the anatomy of the lymphatic system. This therapy should not be performed to people with medical conditions like heart failure, or kidney failure that is why MLD should be done with an experienced therapist. It requires careful assessment to make sure that it is safe for each patient which can be provided by a trusted medical aesthetic clinic.