Different types of lymphatic drainage massage – manual vs Brazilian vs sculpting

When it comes to choosing a lymphatic drainage massage, we have three treatments that fit the bill. But they each have their differences, and your choice of treatment will heavily depend on what you want from the massage.

To celebrate the launch of our new treatment – Brazilian lymphatic drainage – we thought it’d be helpful to run through the different types of lymphatic drainage massage we offer so you can suss out the perfect one for you.

What is lymphatic massage?

Your lymphatic system is a crucial part of your body's immune system. These tissues, also known as lymph nodes, sit just below your skin's surface and have the job of protecting you against infections and diseases. They do this by filtering out unwanted toxins and waste.

Lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage technique designed to improve the flow of these lymph fluids to help your body get rid of anything that could harm you. Not only does it support your immune system, but it also reduces swelling, improves circulation, and leaves you feeling refreshed and revitalised.

Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage – best for body contouring and improving the skin’s appearance

Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage is our latest treatment and combines the best of lymphatic techniques with a main focus on body contouring. Using rhythmic cupping, strokes and soft circular movements, it aims to help reduce swelling, water retention and cellulite. It's especially great for post-cosmetic surgery and for anyone looking to relieve bloating.

It uses stronger pressure than manual lymphatic drainage

Think of the Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage as a blend of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) techniques with added rhythmic cupping, strokes and soft circular movements. MLD uses gentle pressure, whereas some Brazilian techniques are a bit firmer (though should never cause pain, as excessive pressure could affect your recovery).

Your therapist will use some massage oil or cream in a Brazilian massage to facilitate smoother, firmer strokes, whereas the manual version doesn’t use anything.

Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage focuses mainly on cosmetic benefits

• Reduces swelling and water retention after a cosmetic surgery

• Contours the body

• Decreases cellulite appearance

• Provides a relaxing effect

• Aids in the healing process

Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage is ideal if you’re looking to contour your body, reduce water retention and cellulite, or manage post-cosmetic surgery swelling. It’s also great for relieving bloating.

Book multiple sessions for best results

We recommend booking multiple Brazilian lymphatic drainage sessions over six to 12 weeks to get the most out of the treatment. Your Urban pro will work with you to put a treatment plan together so you can reach your goals.

Therapists who offer this treatment are trained in the lymphatic system, recovery after cosmetic surgeries and the specific techniques needed for this treatment.

Manual lymphatic drainage massage – for a gentle immune boost

Lymphatic drainage massage is known for its ultra light, feather-like touch. Developed by two pioneering doctors, the Vodders, the treatment uses gentle movements to activate your lymph (the fluid that gets rid of harmful toxins and waste) so it can move more freely. It uses a much more delicate approach because lymph sits just beneath the skin's surface. 

Your pro will use slow movements to move lymph fluid along

The treatment will usually start with your pro working on the neck area to open up the lymph nodes. Once these nodes are activated, they’ll move fluids towards them from various parts of the body.

Using their hands to form a circle or V shape, the pro will then move upwards towards the core with long, slow and steady motions. Using constant contact with the body, they gently guide the lymph fluid along its path.

Unlike Brazilian lymphatic drainage, this treatment is a “dry” treatment with no massage oil or cream used. This is because it only uses a light touch.

You might feel an urge to pee – but that’s normal!

It’s completely normal to feel the urge to pee during or after your lymphatic drainage session. That's just your body getting rid of toxins.

Manual lymphatic drainage focuses on the health benefits

• Supports your immune system

• Flushes out unwanted waste and toxins

• Helps with lymphedema and swelling

• Aids in post-surgery recovery

• Promotes overall well-being

• Is widely used to manage conditions like lymphedema, post-traumatic edema and venous insufficiency

If you're looking to give your immune system a boost, manage lymphedema, or reduce swelling in your legs or arms, this is your go-to treatment. It’s also a favourite for those recovering from general surgery or simply in need of a relaxing wellness experience.

Book a longer treatment for best results

To get the full benefits of this treatment, we recommend booking for at least 90-minutes, with two hours being the sweet spot.Therapists on Urban that offer lymphatic drainage massage are trained in the lymphatic system, as well as the gentle techniques used in this treatment.

Sculpting massage – for firmer skin and reducing the appearance of cellulite

This body sculpting massage, also known as anti-cellulite massage, is your go-to treatment for a firmer, more toned appearance. It tackles cellulite with strong, deep techniques including circular motions, pounding, kneading and skin-rolling – perfect for those who want smoother, firmer skin and a more contoured body shape.

Expect much stronger pressure than MLD

Unlike lymphatic drainage, a sculpting massage doesn’t work with the body’s lymph. Instead, it targets the appearance of cellulite which is why it needs much firmer pressure and uses some of the deepest techniques designed to redistribute fat cells and smooth the skin’s surface, improving the appearance of cellulite, but not eliminating the fat cells.

Your therapist will change the pressure based on the type of cellulite they're working on. For fat-based cellulite, expect a strong pressure as your pro works to boost blood flow to the area. When it comes to water-based or combination cellulite, the process is typically more comfortable, with a medium pressure that effectively targets the problem area.

A sculpting massage focuses on the skin’s appearance

• Visibly reduces cellulite

• Firms up the skin and makes it smoother

• Improves circulation and relieves muscle tension

Choose this massage if your main goal is to reduce the appearance of cellulite and achieve a more toned, smooth skin and body shape.

Book regularly for visible results

We recommend weekly sessions over 10–12 weeks if you’re after visible results. Urban pros offering this massage are trained in recognising different types of cellulite and using the right techniques for each.

Which type of lymphatic massage is right for you?

When choosing the right type of lymphatic massage for you, think about what you’d like to get from the treatment:

• For a gentle, health-boosting massage: Go for the manual lymphatic drainage massage

• For body contouring and post-cosmetic surgery care: the Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage is your best bet

• For reducing cellulite and firming your skin: opt for the sculpting massage