The lymphatic system is one of the most underrated yet essential systems in the body, playing a vital role in detoxification, immunity, and skin health. Unlike the circulatory system, which has the heart to pump blood, the lymphatic system relies on movement and manual techniques to keep things flowing. When stagnant, it can contribute to puffiness, dull skin, congestion, and inflammation.
At Her Solis, lymphatic health is at the core of my treatments—because when your lymph flows, your skin glows from within. Let’s explore why the lymphatic system matters for your skin and how you can support it with simple, self-care rituals.
What Is the Lymphatic System & Why Does It Affect Your Skin?
Think of your lymphatic system as a fluid network that removes waste, toxins, and excess fluid. It’s deeply connected to your immune system and directly influences how your skin looks and feels. If lymph isn’t moving efficiently, you might notice:
- Puffiness & fluid retention (especially around the eyes, cheeks, and jawline)
- Dull, congested skin (toxins lingering beneath the surface can lead to breakouts and sluggish circulation)
- Inflammation & sensitivity (lymph plays a role in regulating inflammatory responses)
- Slower skin healing (lymph is key in transporting nutrients and immune cells to the skin)
When functioning well, the lymphatic system helps decongest tissues, reduce puffiness, and helps your skins natural health.
The Connection Between Lymphatic Health & TMJ Tension
For those who experience jaw tension, teeth grinding, or TMJ disorder, lymphatic stagnation can make things worse. Fluid can build up around the jaw, temples, and neck, creating a cycle of tension and inflammation. This is why manual lymphatic techniques—such as Buccal Massage, Gua Sha, and Facial Cupping—are so effective in releasing both muscle tension and fluid retention.
I see this often at Her Solis. Clients come in with tight, heavy jawlines or puffiness that just won’t budge. After a sculpting lymphatic facial, they leave looking and feeling lighter, with defined cheekbones and a deep sense of relief.
Simple Ways to Support Your Lymphatic System at Home
Your lymphatic system needs movement, hydration, and manual stimulation to function at its best. Here are a few easy ways to keep things flowing between treatments:
1. Facial Gua Sha & Cupping
Using a Gua Sha stone or facial cups can encourage lymph to drain properly, reducing puffiness and tension. Focus on gentle, sweeping motions along the jawline, cheekbones, and neck.
2. Dry Body Brushing & Wooden Lymphatic Tools
Dry brushing before your shower boosts lymphatic circulation, exfoliates the skin, and supports detoxification. Wooden tools can also be used to sculpt and de-puff the body.
3. Deep Breathing & Movement
The lymphatic system relies on muscle contractions to move fluid. Try diaphragmatic breathing, stretching, or even bouncing on your toes for a few minutes to get things flowing.
4. Hydration & Herbal Support
Lymph needs water to move. Sip on ginger tea, lemon water, or lymph-supporting herbs like calendula and cleavers to keep things light and fluid.
5. Infrared Sauna for Detox & Circulation
Heat therapy (such as an infrared sauna) promotes sweating and lymphatic movement, making it a great addition to your self-care routine.
The Power of Professional Lymphatic Facial Treatments
While daily rituals can make a huge difference, professional lymphatic treatments take things to the next level. At Her Solis, I use a combination of:
- Sculpting Buccal Massage (to release deep tension & encourage drainage)
- Lymphatic Facial Massage (to de-puff, detox & brighten skin)
- Facial Cupping & Gua Sha (to stimulate circulation & sculpt contours)
- Manuka Honey Masks & Herbal Oils (to nourish & support healing)
Regular treatments don’t just improve skin texture—they also help with sinus congestion, TMJ pain, and tension headaches.
Your skin is a direct reflection of what’s happening beneath the surface. By supporting your lymphatic system with movement, hydration, and the right treatments you’ll notice a visible difference.