Lymphatic massage, done on a regular basis, is the only non-invasive treatment that can reduce cellulite. Self-lymphatic drainage with a body brush is simple to do at home and releases fluid trapped in the skin dermis tissue.
Recent studies suggest that changes in the lymphatic system and the production of substances within the interstitial space may be the physiopathological cause of cellulite. As a result, regional skin lymphostasis leads to their accumulation as this aggravates the mobilization of these substances.
Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as manual lymphatic drainage, is a gentle form of massage used to relieve painful swelling in your arms and legs caused by lymphedema.
Depending on the severity, most cases should begin to see results after 1-2 sessions. Frequency is dependent on the clients goals and how congested the lymph system is.
There's no way to completely eliminate cellulite. Some treatments are available that may reduce its appearance, though. To achieve the best results, work with a reputable health care provider to decide which therapies may be right for you.
The pro recommends massaging the arms, legs, and stomach up to 3 to 4 times a week at home. "However, when done by a professional," she explains, "1 or 2 times a week is enough, but each body is different."
Lymphatic drainage also improves circulation, relaxes the body and combats localized fat. Many clients report a slimmer waist and loss of excess water weight after their massage.
How to know whether it is working? Those who use lymphatic drainage massages may notice that their swelling reduces. At the very least, swelling should not worsen. People who have lymphedema should continue using compression socks or sleeves to prevent swelling.
For your lower leg, place one hand on your shin and the other hand below your knee. Gently massage upward with both hands to encourage lymphatic fluid to flow upward, occasionally moving down a bit lower on the leg.
Massage isn't a cure for cellulite but it might temporarily improve skin's appearance and make cellulite less noticeable. Massage does have many health benefits so it may be worth adding to your wellness regimen.
As fat cells increase, they push up against the skin. Tough, long connective cords pull down. This creates an uneven surface or dimpling, often referred to as cellulite. Cellulite is a very common, harmless skin condition that causes lumpy, dimpled flesh on the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen.
The dead fat cell and its content is absorbed into the lymphatic vessels – whereby it travels through to the venous blood supply, into the liver. The liver processes this and then deposits the waste material (fat cell and lipid) – flushing it out of the body through the natural elimination system.
It was a small study involving around 60 people, but the results do suggest that lymphatic drainage may have firming properties.
Acute inflammation, Malignant tumors, Thrombosis and major heart problems are all contraindications to lymphatic drainage massage. Lets look at these one at a time.
After the Session
You will notice feeling better by about 50 percent, then hours after the massage, 90 percent better. You will also likely feel incredibly rejuvenated, which will last even for days after your session.
Results can last up to 10 days, depending on your metabolism and lifestyle.
Regular physical exercise is a great way to get your lymphatic system pumping and detoxing your system of waste. Jumping, walking, stretching, yoga, Pilates, and other moderate exercises done on a daily basis will really improve the state of your lymph.
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that reduces the presence of free radicals responsible for the breakdown of collagen. Retinol helps maintain skin smoothness and makes cellulite bulges less visible. Look for 100,000 IUs of vitamin A per two-ounce jar.
Processed fatty foods like cheese and sausages are a big cellulite-busting no-no. But good fats, like those found in oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, can actually help to smooth things out. The fatty acids it contains help your body to metabolise fat, including that of cellulite.