We may earn commission from the affiliate links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. We promise!
TikTok just keeps on giving! I swear it has been a helpful resource for hacks, thanks to experts and professionals who provide free information as TikTok content.
Lately, my fyp has been showing ladies doing lymphatic drainage facial massages using a gua sha. I became curious, and tried it myself. But first, let's have a quick lesson on what lymphatic drainage massage does to us, and what are its benefits:
What can lymphatic drainage massage do for me?
A lymphatic drainage massage stimulates the lymphatic system to help promote the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. ICYDK, the lymphatic system is like the drainage or garbage disposal of our bodies. It is where we dump our excess fluids and toxins! Our body is amazing, right?
Here are just some benefits you can enjoy when you do it regularly:
-
By promoting the proper flow of lymphatic fluid, this type of massage removes excess fluid and metabolic "waste" from the body. You'll look less swollen and puffy. If your concern is edema, aka manas, you should lymphatic drainage massage a try.
(Side note: I was lucky to get a lymphatic drainage facial, and I was surprised with the results. My face looked more lifted and slimmer.)
- Each stroke during a lymphatic drainage massage will relax your tense muscles. It's one thing you'll want to get to de-stress physically and mentally.
- Doing it often will drain lymphatic fluid and improve blood circulation. The results? A legit glow-from-within, healthy complexion. Estheticians suggest using a nourishing face oil when doing a lymphatic drainage massage to further boost this benefit.
- Did you know the lymphatic system plays an important role in the body's immune system? A lymphatic drainage massage can help stimulate lymphocyte production and increase lymphatic flow. This process can help to boost the immune system. Yay!
How to do a lymphatic drainage massage?
Now that TikTok and science-backed benefits have convinced you to try it, here's a tutorial on how to do a lymphatic drainage massage on yourself. For this lesson, we're focusing on a facial massage.
The first thing you need is a gua sha tool. You can opt for a jade, rose quartz, or stainless steel one. Any of these three can help ~*push*~ the fluid towards the lymphatic nodes, aka the "trash cans" of the body.

MIJEP Rose Quartz Gua Sha, P599, Lazada

Salorie Stainless Steel Gua Sha, P245, Lazada
Then, prepare a face oil. This will help the gua sha glide smoothly on your face, instead of dragging your skin. Like any other type of facial, starting with a freshly washed face is key. A clean face can help your skin absorb all the good benefits of the face oil.

Human Nature Overnight Elixir, P995, Lazada
This is by far, the most helpful TikTok tutorial I've followed at home:
(Keep in mind to only use light pressure on your face! Be gentle. This massage should never cause you pain.)
@michaelascott20 Have a super bad cold rn so here is what I do to drain my lymph???? #esthetician #guashatutorial ? original sound - Michaelascott
Where can I get professional lymphatic drainage massages?
If you want a full-body lymphatic drainage massage, book your appointment at these spas:
Timeout Sports and Medical Body Works
Location: Paseo de Magallanes, Makati. Message them at 0906-5028818.
MassageMNL
Rate: Starts at P600
Location: They provide home service massage! Book your appointment via their IG page.
The Spa
Rate: Starts at P1,540
Locations: TriNoMa, The Podium, Shangri-La Plaza, Power Plant Mall, Greenbelt, BGC, and Alabang. You can book their massages via their website.
Links are updated regularly and as much as possible but note that products can run out of stock, discounts can expire and listed prices can change without prior notice.
Follow Ira on Instagram.
