It’s that time again—it’s Met Gala Monday! Our social media feeds are about to be flooded with glamorous celebrities strutting up those iconic stairs, looking, frankly, absolutely stunning. You know, as a beauty editor, I can’t help but think these stars don’t just wake up looking like that. There’s a whole pre-event routine, right? They undergo popular cosmetic treatments before such big occasions—think Botox, fillers, laser treatments like Fraxel, and RF microneedling like Morpheus8 to make sure their skin is smooth, light, and looking tight.
Now, while I’ve covered these treatments extensively, there’s one that’s kind of taken the spotlight recently—lymphatic drainage massage. It’s not entirely new or invasive, but celebrities seem to be embracing it more than ever right before major events, including the Met Gala.
Tatiana Vianna is an expert in this treatment and runs the Brazilian Beauty Bar in Los Angeles. She notes that back in 2017, when she first started offering lymphatic treatments, they weren’t in high demand for events. Nowadays, though, it’s like she’s become a key player in the glam squads of her clients—after all, makeup artists and hairstylists are pretty much standard for these A-listers. She’s been working with big names such as Kim Kardashian and the Jenner sisters, providing that extra boost of confidence just before the big day.
Ahead, Vianna spills the beans on lymphatic drainage—why it’s favored by celebrities and how you might incorporate it into your own special occasion prep.
How does lymphatic drainage massage work?
Alright, so let’s get a bit into the science here. The lymphatic system, as it turns out, is crucial for filtering out waste and bacteria—a key player in keeping our immune system functioning well. It collects excess fluids from tissues, processes it through lymph nodes, and ultimately returns it to the bloodstream. The waste, meanwhile, gets handled by the liver and kidneys, exiting through urine and bowel movements.
But here’s the thing: unlike the circulatory system, which has the heart to pump blood, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a central pump. Instead, fluid moves naturally due to muscle contractions and deep breathing. However, a slow lifestyle, poor diet, or not enough exercise can lead to congestion.
Lymphatic drainage massage involves applying firm pressure in a specific sequence to move lymph towards the major drainage points in the body: mainly the neck, groin, and armpits. Think of it as using a mop to guide water in a flooded room toward a single drain for faster cleanup.
What does lymphatic drainage massage do?
By helping to move stagnant lymph through specific massage techniques, you promote better filtration and elimination of excess fluids. This can lead to less puffiness and bloating, making both the face and body look more toned. Plus, the massage increases blood circulation, resulting in skin that appears more radiant and smooth.
For event prep like the Met Gala, Vianna customizes her massage techniques for more focused contouring. “I take into account what they’re wearing,” she explains. “That way, we highlight the features that will pop with their gowns.”
Who is lymphatic drainage massage for?
You don’t need to be headed to a life of red carpets to benefit from lymphatic drainage. “Everyone has lymph nodes, so it’s something everyone can enjoy,” Vianna assures. It not only supports the immune system and reduces fluid retention but also offers added benefits for those dealing with health issues related to their lymph nodes, as long as they have their doctor’s nod first.
How long do the effects of lymphatic drainage massage last?
Clients often notice immediate results after a lymphatic drainage massage, but they continue to see improvements for a few days as the body processes waste naturally. Vianna mentions that results usually peak around three days post-massage and can last up to ten days, assuming you maintain some healthy habits. She suggests avoiding sodium-rich foods, alcohol, and sugary snacks right after the massage to prevent swelling. Drinking green tea and eating protein-rich foods and hydrating veggies like spinach and cucumbers can help, too.
For those preparing for a big red carpet moment, Vianna’s clients might schedule lymphatic drainage sessions once or twice a week in the lead-up to the event, or just a few sessions the week prior. It really varies by individual preference and time constraints.
Can you DIY a lymphatic drainage massage?
You bet! Some lymphatic drainage techniques can easily be integrated into your routine without needing a specialist. “I often guide my clients to do a mini version of my session at home,” Vianna explains. If you only have a few minutes to spare, here are some simple moves she recommends:
For the face
To help define your jawline, pinch your chin with the thumb and index finger, then glide your fingers up towards your ear along the jawline. After that, move your fingers down the side of your neck to promote drainage. Repeat five to ten times on each side. “A little motion here can really refine how your jaw looks,” Vianna notes.
For the body
For a quick abdominal massage, stack one hand on top of the other starting at your ribcage. Press down gently and glide your hands toward your hip bones. Repeat this five to ten times on each side to help reduce bloating.
Meet the expert:
- Tatiana Vianna is a lymphatic drainage specialist and the founder of Brazilian Beauty Bar, where she focuses on advanced manual drainage methods from Brazil.
Why trust Cosmopolitan?
Sam Neibart is a freelance editor and writer with nearly ten years of experience covering beauty in both digital and print formats. She’s deeply involved in the continuously changing trends and innovations in the industry and enjoys helping friends discover the right beauty products for them. Previously, she has held editorial roles at NYLON and Harper’s BAZAAR, and currently lives in Manhattan where, twice a year, she feels an urge to switch up her hair color.
