Pittwater Life August 2018 Issue

Hair & Beauty
Your lymphatic system:
the mirror to skin health
with Sue Carroll
The science of anti-aging
has always been at the
forefront of human
endeavour. Anti-aging has been
linked through the lymphatic
system, which is also known as
the ‘Elixir of Life’. The lymphatic
system is a vital component
of our immune system and is
one of the most intriguing and
dynamic relationships the body
possesses.
The lymphatic system is the
body’s drainage mechanism
for collection and disposal of
unwanted waste products. It
is a network of tissues and
organs that help rid the body
of toxins, waste and other
unwanted materials. As part
of the circulatory system
and a vital component of our
immune system, the lymphatic
system comprises a network
of lymphatic vessels that carry
lymph – a fluid containing
infection-fighting white blood
cells – throughout the body.
From an aesthetic
perspective, one of the most
famous practitioners of
lymphatic drainage is Danish
physician Emil Vodder, M.D., and
his wife Estrid who developed
the famous Vodder method and
philosophy of manual lymphatic
drainage (MLD). The Vodders
developed a light, rhythmic
massage with stretching
movements to stimulate lymph
flow throughout the body. In
The Local Voice Since 1991
1936, this technique started
to become recognised by the
medical community when
the Vodders presented their
findings to the public at a health
and beauty congress in Paris.
Since then, many physicians
and lymphologists have come
up with their own techniques
for stimulating the lymphatic
system, most of which involve
many of the same basic
principles used in the Vodder
method.
Another form of lymphatic
drainage is pressure therapy.
This is where specialised
equipment is programmed
with compressed air to actively
massage the lymphatic
system. The system may be
used alone or in conjunction
with a wrapping technique,
using cosmetic-rich active
ingredients to enhance the
drainage process. Both MLD
and pressure therapy may be
used for treatment on the legs,
abdomen, buttocks, and arms
for both men and women.
A well-functioning lymphatic
system will influence the tone,
colour and clarity of the skin.
As a consequence of the aging
process, our lymphatics become
less active and facial oedema
may occur. Inadequate lymph
activity is directly attributed to
puffiness and dark circles under
the eyes, as well as swelling of
the face and ankles.
Other physical areas of
concern where lymphatic
drainage may be of use are:
n To assist with reducing
puffiness after a long flight;
n To treat acne and rosacea
where the facilitation of
unwanted bacteria and
cellular debris will be drained
away from the pustulous
region;
n To reduce the effects of
bruising after surgery;
n To reduce the appearance of
cellulite;
n To assist with weight loss
programs;
n To reduce the lactic acid after
a strenuous exercise session;
n If water retention is a problem
this will assist to reduce
puffiness along with a good
health/lifestyle program; and
n In conjunction with a doctor
to treat lymphodema.
The vitality of the lymphatic
system mirrors the skin’s health
and ultimately, one’s overall
health. Lymphatic drainage
remains one of the most effective
methods to assist in the
management of problematic
and congestive skin and health
conditions.
Sue Carroll of Skin
Inspiration has been a qualified
Aesthetician for 33 years.
Sue has owned and
operated successful beauty
clinics and day spas on
the Northern Beaches.
info@skininspiration.com.au
www.skininspiration.com.au
AUGUST 2018 51
Health Hair & Wellbeing Beauty