Skincare and Your Lymphatic System: Body Exfoliation

Body exfoliation and lymphatic drainage are two practices that work together to improve circulation and detoxification. Body scrubs exfoliate the skin by removing dead cells, which increases blood flow and allows products to absorb into your skin better to reap the maximum benefits. This process stimulates the lymphatic system, which helps move lymph fluid and flush out waste and toxins, leading to reduced swelling and inflammation. To enhance scrubbing properties, try sitting in a steam room for 10-15 minutes before exfoliating.

How they work together

Exfoliation: Scrubs, whether physical like sugar, salt or coffee scrubs, or mechanical like dry brushes, remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.

Increased circulation: The pressure and friction from the scrub stimulate blood flow to the skin, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the cells.

Lymphatic stimulation: The increased blood flow and removal of dead skin help to increase the movement of lymph fluid throughout the body's tissues. Lymph is a clear fluid that carries waste products and immune cells.

Detoxification: The stimulation helps move waste products away from the tissues and toward the lymph nodes, where they can be processed and eliminated from the body.

Reduced swelling: By moving excess fluid and waste, lymphatic drainage can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the tissues for smoother, healthier skin.

Benefits

Smoother skin: Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath.

Improved texture: Regular scrubbing can help improve the texture and tone of the skin.

Enhanced circulation: Both processes boost circulation, which is beneficial for skin health and overall well-being.

Detoxification: Together, they help the body flush out waste and toxins through the lymphatic system.

Reduced swelling: Lymphatic drainage can help reduce puffiness and swelling by moving stagnant fluid.

Coffee Scrub Recipe:

• 1/3 cup ground coffee beans (can use coarse – for body scrub, or fine - for face and body scrub)

• 1 teaspoon honey

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

Mix and store in a glass jar for 2-3 weeks. Use scrub 1-3 times per week.