What is Your Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system lies just below the surface of your skin. It is made up of lymphatic vessels, lymph fluid, and lymphoid organs. It works alongside your circulatory system to transport lymphatic fluid, which contains immune cells, proteins, dead skin cells, and waste. When this system isn't functioning properly, it can contribute to lymphatic acne and other problematic skin conditions.
Here’s what the lymphatic system does for you:
- Helps remove toxins, pathogens, and cellular debris.
- Aids in the absorption of dietary fats & fat-soluble vitamins.
- Lymph nodes act as filters, trapping harmful substances and initiating an immune response when necessary by functioning.
- Supports the body's immune system defenses and helps maintain proper fluid balance.
The Connection Between Lymphatic Acne and the Lymphatic System
When the lymphatic system is sluggish, this can lead to lymphatic congestion and stagnation. Stagnation is when toxins build up in the lymph nodes, leading to breakouts in areas such as the ear, jaw, and neck area. This can contribute to lymphatic acne, chronic acne, and other skin issues over time.
A poorly functioning lymphatic system can also contribute to hormonal imbalances, which are a common trigger for hormonal acne. This is because the system is responsible for helping carry hormones like progesterone throughout the body. When it doesn’t function properly, it can cause progesterone deficiency, which can further contribute to acne. Maintaining a healthy diet plays a crucial role in supporting the optimal function of your lymphatic system and preventing lymphatic acne.
What to Do
If you're dealing with acne or looking to improve your skin health overall, there are several practices that can help boost the flow of lymphatic fluid and improve lymphatic drainage, which can, in turn, help prevent clogged pores and enhance the health of your lymphatic system.
- Exercise: The lymphatic system relies on muscle movement (or manual stimulation) to move lymphatic fluid throughout the body, which aids in eliminating toxins that can lead to acne, particularly hormonal acne.
- Invert Your Body: This allows lymph flow to travel more easily to its drainage points, bringing the toxins with it! This step alone can help keep the lymphatic system moving efficiently, reducing breakouts.
- Manual Stimulation: Incorporate lymphatic drainage techniques such as lymphatic drainage massage, lymphatic massage, dry brushing, and using tools like a gua sha to help stimulate lymphatic drainage further. Regularly practicing manual lymphatic drainage or lymphatic massage can prevent lymphatic congestion and lead to clearer skin, free from acne-causing impurities.
- Staying Hydrated: When dehydrated, lymph fluid becomes thicker, making it harder for the lymphatic system to push toxins throughout the body. Drink enough water daily to keep that fluid moving.
- Hydrotherapy: A fantastic practice to increase blood circulation and support detoxification by enhancing lymphatic drainage and helping your skin health stay on point.
What to Eat
Certain foods can help promote lymph flow and maintain the integrity of your lymphatic vessels, supporting your body's overall lymphatic health. Here are some key foods and herbs that you can include in your diet:
Foods to Promote Lymphatic Health:
- Beets
- Cranberry
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Leafy Greens
- Pumpkin Seeds
- Seaweeds
- Turmeric
Adaptogenic Herbs:
Incorporating adaptogenic herbs such as the following can optimize your hormonal and lymphatic health, supporting the proper function of your lymph nodes:
- Goldenseal
- Astragalus
- Echinacea
Citrus Fruits:
- Lemon
- Lime
- Grapefruit
Certain foods can help promote lymph flow and maintain the integrity of your lymphatic vessels, supporting your body's overall lymphatic health. Pairing a balanced diet with an effective skincare routine can further enhance your skin's appearance. Here are some key foods and herbs that you can include in your diet:
Thank you for reading!
This article of the Skinsider Scoop was graciously written by Holistic Acne Nutritionist, Katie Stewart and edited by the Clean Skin Club team. If you're interested in more from Katie, please shoot us an email, and follow her Instagram - @katiestewartwellness