What's really going on in lymphatic drainage beauty videos?
Fans of these massages claim they "depuff" and "define" their stomach - but what's actually happening to their bodies?
Abbey Alexandra, who suffers from endometriosis, has incorporated lymphatic drainage massages into her routine for its perceived benefits of reducing bloating and creating a more sculpted appearance. She shares her experiences and results on social media platforms like TikTok, where many users also promote this technique. However, experts caution that the physical changes seen in videos might be misleading or exaggerated, and there is limited scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of these massages for healthy individuals.
Dr Xand van Tulleken, a medical expert, explains that the lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance and supporting the immune system. While manual lymphatic drainage can help alleviate symptoms of conditions like lymphoedema, he advises against unnecessary home treatments for healthy individuals. The practice can provide temporary relief and relaxation, but it is not a solution for fat loss or a promise of lasting benefits.
Dr Ella Guest, a health psychologist, emphasizes the importance of questioning the realism of such images and the potential negative impact on self-esteem when striving to meet unrealistic beauty standards.
Written by urgent.news from BBC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
