Self Lymphatic Eye Massage for Puffiness

What's that?
This SELF manual lymphatic drainage massage uses gentle, rhythmic circular motions to manipulate the lymphatic system in order to detoxify and remove waste from the body more quickly. As it relates to your eyes, it removes excess lymphatic fluid that can pool excessively around the eyes and create puffiness or bags. Gentle stimulation is often needed because the lymphatic system lacks a pump. (ie. circulatory system has the heart to pump blood)

Really, detoxify?
Well, the lymphatic system removes water, waste and congestion that could otherwise build up and result in edema, swelling due to stagnant lymphatic fluid. The lymphatic system is, in part, a waste removal system so when you are doing lymph massage you're basically taking your eye bags to the trash! ;)

I've never heard of the lymphatic system, where's it at?
The initial lymphatics are located just underneath the skin. They are only one cell thick, so gentle pressure is key. When you stretch your skin with this massage (or with anything, like walking or yoga) you are creating an opening in the superficial lymphatics that allows fluid to enter the vessels. The lymph vessels are similar to the digestive system and self propel throughout the rest of the system. So gently stretch your skin and your work is done!

So, that's all?
In addition to this self lymphatic massage I recommend using a corrective eye product for eye puffiness. If you do not notice results in 3 months, you may want to consult with a doctor about getting a medical procedure like a blepharoplasty or dermal filler. Here are my favorite eye products for puffiness and bags:

Epicuren Eye Alive Serum
(This one is nice if you do not like eye cream. It is a light weight serum you can use alone or underneath an eye cream you might already be in love with. Win win!)
Eminence Cucumber Eye Gel
(This one is nice and light weight, my clients love it!)
Babor Ultimate Perfecting Eye Cream
(This one tackles everything including eye puffiness. It really is the end all be all eye cream. It is definitely a luxury, but worth every penny!)

I recommend doing this self lymphatic eye massage whenever you can. Daily or even just a few times a week. This is an abbreviated version and only recommended on skin that does not have any contraindications. If you have any of the following conditions please see your doctor before trying this massage: recent surgery or injury, active cancer, open wounds, rashes, inflamed skin conditions, fever or infection, heart kidney or liver diseases, asthma, severe allergies, hyperthyroidism and phlebitis.

Thanks for reading! If you have any questions, comments or requests, please feel free to leave them below.

Anesia Overlund
Licensed Esthetician
Certified Medical Aesthetician
AnesiaOverlund@gmail.com