When it comes to bodycare, this is a treatment celebrities are head over heels for.
Enter the lymphatic drainage massage, which I had to try after it reached cult-favorite status on TikTok with more than 65,000 posts and 76 million views.
It's also a beloved treatment among Hollywood stars for its ability boost the body's lymphatic system, part of the immune system that protects against infection and disease.
So, what do you need to know about the full-body procedure? Well, massage therapist Flávia Lanini—who frequently works with Dua Lipa, Selena Gomez, Paris Hilton and Karol G—is ready to share the secrets behind the beloved body treatment.
"My celebrity clients have experienced the widespread benefits of my technique," Lanini told E! News in an exclusive interview. "Whether to enhance their physical appearance, reduce bloating, support overall wellness, aid in post-surgical recovery or provide pregnancy and post-pregnancy benefits, these advantages cater to their high-demand lifestyles."
And even if you don't need to be red carpet ready, that doesn't mean you can't elevate your self-care routine at home.
Below, read my experience with the lymphatic drainage massage, as well as Lanini's best advice about the treatment.
What is a lymphatic drainage massage?
"Lymphatic drainage is a specialized massage to enhance lymphatic fluid circulation throughout the body," Lanini explained, adding that it "significantly benefits the lymphatic system, promoting immune function, toxin elimination and fluid equilibrium for overall well-being."
The lymphatic system, according to the Mayo Clinic, is part of the immune system, which protects the body against infection and disease. Since the massage creates movement in the lymph fluids, it's believed to help detox the body.
What should I expect during a lymphatic drainage massage?
Admittedly, when I went in for my massage I was dealing with allergy-related congestion and felt lethargic. I hadn't exercised or ate the healthiest leading up to my appointment either. So, both my immune system and body needed help.
The massage therapist started the treatment with my legs, using sweeping, circular motions (almost like twisting bread dough) going from my ankles to my thighs. She then worked on the center of my stomach before massaging the sides, and later moved on to the arms and armpits.
She focused on the stomach area the most, going back to it again after finishing my arms. And this is where the stomach rumbling kicked into high gear, as she pressed her hands into my lower abdomen.
"The massage stimulates the movement of water and food in the stomach," Lanini said of the rumbling, "interacting with the muscles in the stomach and gut, directly contributing to improved digestion. My technique focuses on reducing gut inflammation."
In terms of how the massage feels? Well, I wouldn't necessarily describe the treatment as painful, but you can definitely feel the vigorous motions of the massage therapist. Plus, I had moments of uncomfortableness. After all, my stomach rumbled a lot and I could feel the fluids swooshing inside.
But fortunately, the results were instantaneous for me. I noticed a significant difference in how de-bloated my torso appeared and, overall, my body looked refreshed and renewed.
What are the possible benefits of lymphatic drainage?
Because the treatment helps the lymph fluids move around the body, Lanini explained why it can make you feel good from the inside out—even helping in the bathroom.
"Our lymphatic drainage sessions are designed to reduce swelling," she said, "target edema in fluid-retention areas, enhance immune function by improving circulation, aid post-surgical recovery through tissue regeneration and facilitate toxin elimination through the renal system."
And because this is a massage, after all, there's an added perk to giving your body some extra T.L.C. As she put it, "It provides stress relief for individuals."
What are some potential risks of lymphatic drainage?
There are potential downsides to consider that might not make it a relaxing experience. Due to the temporary toxin release, Lanini stressed the importance of drinking water.
"Individuals with specific health conditions," she added, "such as congestive heart failure or active infections, should consult a healthcare professional before pursuing this massage. Patients with significant circulatory issues or other severe medical conditions should also consult a healthcare professional."
What are the best post-treatment tips for lymphatic drainage?
First, expect to flush the fluids out immediately following the massage. In fact, before I even finished my session, the massage therapist asked if I needed to use the bathroom since it's a normal (and expected) side effect. Suffice to say, I took her up on it, dashing out the door in a robe and slippers.
Now, when it comes to aftercare, it's important to avoid certain foods because it can defeat the purpose of the body treatment.
"I recommend abstaining from alcohol, carbs and sugars for four to five hours following the massage," Lanini advised. "Additionally, maintaining hydration is crucial. Consider consuming water or tea."
Following my massage, I was treated to Lanini's Deblo-Tea—which is a mixture of hibiscus, green tea, açaí, rosemary and ginger—to help my digestion system.
And if you're hoping to keep your body moving post-treatment, the skincare guru suggested "complementing the massage with Pilates or yoga to enhance the overall experience."
How can I do lymphatic drainage massages at-home?
Although Lanini noted that training is required for lymphatic drainage massages in her clinic, she recommended a few techniques and products to use at home.
"I recommend incorporating the Nativa SPA Quinoa body lotion and oil for at-home practices," the beauty mogul shared. "This collection is designed to firm the skin, making it ideal for dry brushing—gently brushing it toward lymph flow before showering. Additionally, massage with gentle, sweeping motions toward lymph nodes, especially in areas with swelling."
To further reduce swelling and bloating, Lanini once again emphasized the importance of hydration.
"Water intake is crucial to support lymphatic function," she said. "Swelling and bloating can [be caused by] thousands of reasons, but generally speaking, one should elevate legs to reduce lower extremity swelling, adopt a healthy diet by minimizing sodium intake and pay particular attention to gut health."
What are the takeaways?
I noticed the biggest difference in my stomach—I wasn't as bloated or swollen following the treatment. But the results didn't last long, since I felt back to normal by the next day (usually, the physical effects of the massage last up to 6 hours).
However, I was a lot more mindful (and motivated) to eat healthier foods, exercise and stay hydrated throughout the week.
Most of all, it felt good to treat my body when I often neglect it in my skincare routine. To me, the massage is worth trying if you want to enhance your self-care regimen and need help changing a few lifestyle habits—even if it's just feeling encouraged to drink more water.