Your lymphatic system is one of the most important yet overlooked systems in the body. It helps move waste, toxins, and immune cells throughout your tissues, playing a vital role in your immune function, hormonal balance, and overall well-being. But unlike your circulatory system, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a central pump, which means it relies on movement, hydration, and manual support to keep flowing well.
Two simple and effective ways to support lymph flow at home are lymphatic massage and dry brushing. In this post, I’ll walk you through both methods, when to use them, the risks to be aware of, and how to incorporate my Circulate + Soothe Massage Oil and contoured dry brush into your routine.
Why Focus on the Neck, Chest, Breasts, and Underarms?
These areas are full of lymph nodes that help drain fluid from the head, face, arms, and upper chest. Supporting flow here can:
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Reduce puffiness and swelling
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Ease breast tenderness, especially before your period or postpartum
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Relieve sinus congestion and tension headaches
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Improve immune support and detoxification
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Promote better circulation and skin tone
Whether you're postpartum, cycling, perimenopausal, or just feeling sluggish, these areas are key drainage points that deserve gentle attention.
What Is Lymphatic Massage?
Lymphatic massage is a gentle technique using soft, rhythmic strokes to encourage the natural movement of lymph fluid. You can use your fingertips with just a bit of pressure. Think feather-light rather than deep tissue, or use my Circulate + Soothe Massage Oil to help your hands glide more smoothly over the skin.
How to perform lymphatic massage at home:
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Start at the neck base
Lightly stroke downward at the sides of the neck above your collarbones. Do this 10 to 15 times to “open up” the main drainage pathways. -
Underarms and chest
Sweep gently from your armpit toward the center of your chest and vice versa. Flat hands work best for this area. -
Breasts
Use circular, outward motions moving toward the underarm area. This is especially helpful for breast congestion or tenderness. -
Jawline and behind ears
Use upward strokes toward your ears, then sweep down the side of the neck. Always finish by draining downward toward your collarbone.
Take a few deep breaths and follow up with water and gentle movement, like walking or bouncing lightly on your toes.
What Is Dry Brushing?
Dry brushing uses a firm, natural-bristled brush on dry skin to help exfoliate, increase circulation, and support lymph flow. It’s usually done before a shower, using long strokes toward the heart.
My contoured dry brush was chosen specifically for curves like the chest and underarm areas, making it easier to reach tricky spots while staying gentle enough for sensitive skin.
How to dry brush properly:
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Always brush toward the heart
Start at your feet and work your way up the legs. When brushing your chest, underarms, and neck, brush gently toward your collarbone or center of the chest. -
Use light to medium pressure
It should never feel painful or scratchy. Let the bristles do the work. -
Keep it short and consistent
Two to five minutes is enough a few times a week. -
Follow with a shower, then apply Circulate + Soothe Massage Oil to lock in moisture and enhance your results.
Benefits of Dry Brushing
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Gently exfoliates dead skin
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Boosts circulation and energizes the body
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Supports lymphatic drainage
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Can reduce the appearance of bloat or swelling over time
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Promotes a grounding self-care ritual
Risks and When to Avoid
Both lymphatic massage and dry brushing are generally safe when done gently, but there are times you should skip or modify:
Avoid if you have:
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Fever or active infection
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Inflamed skin, open wounds, or sunburn
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Active cancer or undergoing treatment (check with your doctor first)
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History of blood clots or uncontrolled health conditions
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Very sensitive or broken skin in the area
Avoid dry brushing:
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On eczema, psoriasis flares, or very dry cracked skin
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Immediately after shaving or waxing
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If your skin becomes irritated, back off and try less pressure or a smaller brush
Bring It All Together
Supporting your lymphatic system doesn’t require a fancy spa day or complicated routine. Just a few minutes with your fingers or a brush, a little oil, and intentional touch can make a big difference in how you feel.
Shop the essentials at Careha + Co:
Circulate + Soothe Massage Oil
Contoured Dry Brush
These tools are intentionally selected for moms and women like you, looking for natural support in their wellness routine. Use them on their own or pair them for an easy at-home ritual that feels just as good as it is for you.
Enjoy,
Carley