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If you’ve spent any amount of time on social media lately, it’s possible you’ve stumbled on reels that promote treatments aimed at “snatching” the face, detoxing the organs, and delivering a radiant glow—all by “flushing” the lymph. The Cleveland Clinic explains that the lymphatic system produces immune cells that help protect against viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi; helps the body absorb nutrients; and filters out excess fluid from tissue. It’s the third function on this list that typically draws interest for the aesthetic effect, as fluid can create puffiness in the face (as well as fluid retention in the abdomen or limbs, which clinicians may refer to as “edema”). But how can you tell what’s actually good for you…and what’s just online buzz? Ahead, a multi-specialist medical doctor with expertise in aesthetics and cellular medicine highlights the lymphatic draining tools that are worth the hype, plus what you should consider before starting. About the expert Azza Halim, MD, is a board-certified physician and anesthesiologist specializing in regenerative medicine and aesthetics. She has practices in Florida, California, and Illinois. Infrared Light Dr. Halim says while methods like jade rollers, gua sha tools, cupping, wooden paddles, and foam rollers can mimic the gentle, rhythmic pressure used in clinical manual lymphatic drainage therapy, her own favorite method is an at-home LED or infrared device. A 2017 randomized controlled trial conducted by a team of doctors in Italy and China led to these observations on the effect of red light therapy on swollen limbs, as reported by the physician researchers: “After therapy, a significant decrease of limb circumference measurements was noted … Laboratory examination showed the treatment can also decrease the deposition of fluid, fat, hyaluronan, and protein, improving the swelling condition.” In other words, Dr. Halim’s favorite lymphatic drainage tool is informed by existing science that supports it. She says these next few may help move lymph fluid toward lymph nodes, especially after surgery or prolonged immobility. They work best when pressure is very light—”more is not better,” she says, and cautions that “poor technique can be ineffective or counterproductive.” Dry Brushing Tools Dr. Halim suggests dry brushing—explained by the Cleveland Clinic as using a dry, stiff-bristled brush to massage your skin—may encourage superficial lymph flow and improve circulation. Note she also stresses that evidence for “detoxification” is limited, though many people may notice a temporary reduction in puffiness, smoother skin, and a sense of invigoration. She recommends the avoidance of dry brushing on broken skin, eczema, or active rashes, as it may damage the skin barrier or causes “irritation, inflammation, and infection.” Best for: People looking for a simple, inexpensive ritual. Vibration Plates Vibration plates stimulate muscles through rapid oscillations, which can indirectly promote circulation and lymph movement by activating muscle pumps. While not designed specifically for lymphatic health, Dr. Halim notes that short sessions may help with lower-extremity swelling in otherwise healthy individuals. Experts at the MD Anderson Cancer Center also suggest that some studies have shown this type of low-intensity vibration could be helpful for cancer patients as a way of maintaining or stimulating bone and muscle growth. Dr. Halim cautions that anyone who is pregnant, prone to blood clots, or has implanted medical devices should avoid using such devices. Best for: Sedentary individuals or those with mild leg edema Compression Garments Compression stockings and sleeves are among the most evidence-supported tools for lymphatic support, according to Dr. Halim. For example, a 2024 review published in the Medical Oncology journal found that compression garments could be beneficial for the prevention of lymphedema in cancer patients, especially for those with breast cancer. “By applying graduated pressure, they prevent fluid from pooling and encourage lymph return,” Dr. Halim says. “These are standard in medical management of lymphedema and venous insufficiency.” She adds that medical-grade compression should be prescribed and the correct sizing of clothing is critical. Best for: Long flights, standing jobs, post-surgical swelling Pneumatic Compression Devices Pneumatic compression devices are inflatable sleeves used to apply sequential pressure, effectively “pushing” lymph fluid toward central drainage points. Dr. Halim says they are clinically used in certain lymphedema patients and post-operative care, and cautions that these devices are not appropriate for casual wellness use without supervision because they must be prescribed by a physician. Best for: Diagnosed lymphedema under medical guidance Finally, Dr. Halim stresses that the best lymphatic drainage options will depend on whether an individual is experiencing medical lymphedema versus cosmetic swelling, and that proper assessment is necessary for an appropriate treatment plan in cases of medical lymphedema.

Scroll through social media and you’ll likely see lymphatic drainage framed as a cure-all, promising detoxification, flatter stomachs, clearer skin and even immune boosts with the swipe of a tool or a quick massage. From gua sha and dry brushing to compression boots and supplements, lymph-focused wellness has exploded into a full-blown trend. But what does the lymphatic system actually do, and where does science end and marketing begin? According to Azza Halim, M.D., a multi-specialist physician, much of what’s being promoted online oversimplifies a complex and essential body system. The lymphatic system plays a vital role in immune defense and fluid balance, but it is not a stand-alone detox organ. Misunderstanding that distinction can lead patients toward ineffective or even unsafe practices. In this Q&A with The Educated Patient, Halim breaks down the true medical role of the lymphatic system, explains why interest has surged in recent years and clarifies which lymphatic drainage approaches are evidence-based versus overstated. She also shares simple, low-risk ways patients can safely support lymphatic health without falling for misleading detox claims. Lymphatic drainage has become a major wellness trend. What is the lymphatic system actually responsible for, and why has it suddenly gained so much attention? Azza Halim, M.D.: Let’s define lymphatic drainage with medical facts versus social media hype. The lymphatic system is not a detox organ — it’s a circulatory and immune support system. Therefore, its main responsibilities include balancing fluid via transporting excess interstitial fluid back to the bloodstream as well as immune cells and filtering pathogens via lymph nodes. It also moves cellular byproducts toward the liver and kidneys so these organs can perform detoxification. It does not have a central pump and therefore relies on movement, muscle contraction, breathing and pressure gradients. Why has it been such a common focus? Unfortunately, increases in sedentary lifestyles and in postsurgical aesthetics (liposuction, body contouring) have raised awareness of inflammation, edema and immune health, along with social media reframing lymph as a “beauty and detox” shortcut. The interest is understandable but often oversimplified, as “detox” claims are misleading or overstated. Promoting lymphatic products that claim that simply stimulating lymph flow will remove toxins directly is not accurate nor safe. Many products and tools claim to “detox” the body through lymphatic drainage. From a medical perspective, what claims are misleading or overstated? AH: Medically speaking, beware of any claims that say a product does the following: “Flushes toxins from the body” “Cleanses the blood” “Removes heavy metals” “Detoxes organs” This is very misleading and confusing to many readers, and we should be educating the masses on medical facts. Lymphatic movement helps transport waste and detoxification, and occurs in the liver, kidneys, lungs and gut along with real evidence techniques for proper lymphatic drainage. Which lymphatic drainage techniques have the strongest evidence behind them, and who is most likely to benefit? AH: Lymphatic drainage that is evidence-based is great for lymphedema, postsurgical swelling and postoncologic care. However, it must be performed by trained therapists. We also emphasize the importance of walking, light resistance training, rebounding and diaphragmatic breathing. We have options such as compression therapy that is medically prescribed for edema and venous/lymphatic insufficiency and postsurgical patients, along with sedentary individuals with dependent swelling. Certain inflammatory or autoimmune conditions are case-dependent and need medical diagnosis. What role, if any, do supplements play in supporting lymphatic health, and which ingredients are worth paying attention to? AH: There aren’t any supplements that “drain lymph.” We do know that hydration and electrolyte balance are necessary, as well as magnesium for muscle relaxation and lymph movement facilitation. For someone curious but overwhelmed by options, what simple, low-risk steps can they take to support lymphatic function safely? AH: If something sounds like a cleanse, it probably isn’t physiology. Simple ways to support lymphatic function include walking daily (even 10-20 minutes helps), hydrating consistently, diaphragmatic breathing (5 minutes/day), gentle stretching or yoga, and avoiding prolonged sitting (stand up every 60-90 minutes). This interview was edited for clarity.

Your delicate neck and décolleté are just as exposed to UV rays, pollution and other external skin stressors that ultimately have an aging effect on the skin, which is why you shouldn’t delay adding a neck cream to your routine. After all, your skin care shouldn’t stop at your jaw, and using a cream, oil or serum targeted for the neck area can help keep these thinner-skinned areas hydrated and healthy. “Whether you are already seeing signs of aging or not, use skin care on your neck daily,” Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Dr. Loretta skin care, said. “I find that neck skin care is too often overlooked, with the net effect being that, for many of us, our necks show our age before most of the face (with the exception of thin eye skin, which is often the first to show visible unwanted aging changes).” Fortunately, adding a neck cream to your anti-aging skin care routine is a simple, one-step process. You won’t need to layer on as much product as you might your face, since the skin in this area is thinner. Apply your neck cream once in the morning and once at night, and remember to apply your daily SPF to your neck and chest as well before heading out the door. How to choose the best neck cream Ciraldo said to look for products that have hydrating glycerin, firming peptides and botanical antioxidants. Glycerin “is great for all-day moisture,” while peptides assist with filling fine lines and wrinkles (which manifest as tech neck) and antioxidants support collagen to tackle the tightening and toning of the area. Other dermatologist-approved ingredients that help maintain a youthful-looking neck include niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and retinoids. Related articleThe best anti-aging products to add to your routine, according to dermatologists King also stressed that you should never forget your SPF. “Sunscreen will be the most effective ingredient over time,” she said. Robinson agreed, adding, “The most common pitfall I see with the neck and décolletage area is lack of consistency with sunscreen application. It is important to incorporate treatment products but arguably more important to start early with protecting the area with SPF.” And while neck cream can be used to prevent and reverse signs of aging, the dermatologists we spoke to acknowledged that skin care can only go so far. Especially when those with mature skin are looking to treat severe skin sagging and wrinkles, a more aggressive treatment such as injectables, noninvasive tightening procedures and surgery options might be necessary, depending on the desired results. In the meantime, though, adding a neck cream to your regimen can certainly give your skin a boost. Plus, with a plethora of options on the market, you can find something that fits into your routine and budget. FAQs The following FAQs have been answered by dermatologists Dr. Brendan Camp, Dr. Marisa Garshick and Dr. Dara Spearman; board-certified physician Dr. Azza Halim; and double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Akshay Sanan.

Women’s health has come a long way. Conversations around perimenopause and menopause have exploded on social media and in group chats everywhere. But painful sex is still one of those topics many women whisper about, if they talk about it at all. Maybe it started after having a baby or crept in during perimenopause. Or maybe sex has always been uncomfortable, and you’ve assumed that’s just how it is. The advice women often get doesn’t help: Have a glass of wine. Try to relax. It’s part of aging. But experts say pain during sex isn’t normal — and it isn’t something women are meant to live with. More often, it’s a sign that something specific is going on: hormonal, muscular, structural, or deeper in the pelvis. And once the cause is identified, it’s usually treatable. It’s not in your head: Why sex hurts The clinical term for painful sex is dyspareunia, and doctors estimate it affects anywhere from 10 to 30 percent of women, with some research suggesting the number may be closer to 50 percent, particularly after menopause. “The rates are probably underestimated, because many women don’t report it to their physicians,” says Dr. Shieva Ghofrany, an OB/GYN and co-creator of Tribe Called V, a platform focused on removing stigma around women’s health. Unless pain is brief, resolves with a position change, and doesn’t return, you should bring it up with a clinician. For many women, one of the most frustrating parts of painful sex isn’t just the discomfort; it’s being made to feel like the problem is psychological. “Women come into my office already blaming themselves,” says Rachelle Bojer, a pelvic-floor physical therapist and founder of Lotus Physical Therapy in New York. “They’ll say, ‘I feel into it. I feel aroused. But it still hurts.’ That disconnect makes them think something is wrong with them, when there’s often a very real physical reason.” Here are the main causes of painful sex. When hormones change, sex can too Declining estrogen is one of the biggest contributors to painful sex. “The vagina loves estrogen,” Bojer says. It helps keep vaginal tissue thick, elastic, and well lubricated. When estrogen levels drop — after pregnancy, during perimenopause, or in menopause — that tissue can become thinner, more fragile, and more sensitive. Estrogen drops sharply postpartum, especially for women who are breastfeeding, which can temporarily mimic menopausal symptoms. Some women notice tearing or spotting after sex or say they suddenly need far more lubrication than they used to. According to Dr. Azza Halim, a board-certified anesthesiologist and physician with a focus in aesthetic medicine, anti-aging treatments, and regenerative medicine, estrogen affects more than moisture. It also influences muscle tone and how the nervous system processes sensation, which helps explain why pain can show up even when arousal is present. What helps: Treatment often focuses on improving tissue quality. Topical vaginal estrogen works directly on the tissue and can be highly effective. For women who prefer nonhormonal options, vaginal moisturizers and lubricating gels can improve comfort. If pain persists, pelvic-floor physical therapy may also help. “When hormonal therapy alone isn’t enough, that’s often a sign there’s muscle involvement as well,” Halim says. “Addressing both is what leads to real improvement.” It’s not your desire — it’s your muscles In many women, painful sex turns out to be a muscle issue, specifically the pelvic floor. Instead of weakness, the problem is often excessive tension: Muscles stay contracted and lose the ability to fully relax. “Some studies suggest 60 to 70 percent of women with painful sex have some degree of pelvic-floor involvement,” Halim says. That tension can show up in different ways. Some women feel sharp pain with penetration or a sense of restriction; others notice pain that lingers afterward. “Some women also have pain while sitting or exercising,” Bojer says. “Then they’ll tell me, ‘When I’m with my partner, it just hurts — before, during, and after.’” In younger or very active women, this pattern is often diagnosed as vaginismus (spontaneous contraction of the vagina). Bojer says she’s seeing it more frequently in athletes who train intensely. “Athletes and women in their 20s who are lifting and training every day are having pain with sex because their pelvic floor is so tight,” she says. “They’re healthy and active, but those muscles forget how to relax.” She compares it to a familiar injury: “It’s like sleeping wrong and waking up with a stiff neck. You press on it, and it hurts. The same thing can happen in the pelvic floor.” What helps: When pelvic-floor dysfunction is the source, doctors often refer patients to pelvic-floor physical therapy. Treatment focuses on retraining the muscles to relax and lengthen through internal manual work, breathing techniques, and guided stretching. “Diaphragmatic breathing helps down-train the pelvic-floor muscles,” Bojer says. At-home tools like dilators provide gentle stretching, while pelvic wands help release tight spots. “The dilator is something you insert and leave in place,” Bojer explains. “With the wand, the patient is finding the tight areas and stretching them.” When therapy isn’t enough, pelvic-pain specialists may prescribe vaginal suppositories with muscle relaxants. In persistent cases, Botox injections can help reset muscle tension. “For some women, one round is enough to reset the muscles,” Bojer says. This isn’t just motherhood For some women, painful sex traces back to childbirth — even if everything seemed to heal normally. Tears, episiotomies, forceps deliveries, and stitches can lead to scar tissue and adhesions, bands of fibrous tissue that form as the body heals and can limit movement at the vaginal opening. This pain doesn’t always show up right away. “Some women will have no pain, and then it creeps up later,” Bojer says. “Over time, that scar tissue can become more restricted and less flexible.” As movement becomes limited, the surrounding muscles often tighten to protect the area, which can add another layer of discomfort. Because postpartum care tends to focus on whether tissue has closed, and not how well it moves, these issues are easy to miss by physicians. What helps: Treatment focuses on restoring flexibility and