Lymphatic drainage meets the future

Lymphatic drainage has been around as a recognized massage technique since the 1930s, and I’ve been a fan for years. So when I had the chance to try a mechanized version, I had to give it a go.

SleekSculpt is marketed as a body-contouring programme, but I feel that expecting a machine to loose weight for you is like using an anti-aging serum a few times and expecting to look younger. It might help with water weight, and will help reduce cellulite, as it eliminates toxins, but all of these will be temporary if you don’t change your lifestyle.

Your lymphatic system is responsible for removing metabolic waste, microorganisms and other waste from your body, as forming part of your immune system. It also helps with eth absorption of fats and fat-soluble nutrients. So, it’s pretty important that you have an effective lymphatic system if you want to stay healthy. Lymphatic drainage gently moves the lymph along, helping to eliminate any blockages and make it work at its optimum efficiency.

The traditional method involves a series of soft, sweeping motions, done towards the heart to encourage waste elimination. SleekSculpt basically does the same thing, but in a more effective, if hysterical way.

The session starts with the application of the brand’s Body Peel, an enzymatic exfoliator, creating a healthy canvas for the Slimming Gel. It’s a stimulating gel that is cool when applied, but soon warms up, encouraging circulation. You are then wrapped up in cling film to ensure you don’t lose any of the gel in the comical trousers you have to get into next.

The compression trousers, although funny, are the smartest ones you’ll ever wear. You get zipped into them, and lie back while they do their thing. They are programmed to apply sequential pressure, just like a massage therapist would do. Once the cycle is over, a rich body moisturiser is applied to nourish the skin and bring the pH back to normal after the peel.

I loved the feeling of the trousers expanding and squeezing my legs and torso, but if you are in any way claustrophobic, then give it a miss. But if you aren’t, definitely give it a try. I had the very beginnings of a cold, which disappeared through the course of the day and I felt my energy levels are noticeably higher for a week afterwards. My skin was softer, too, thanks to the Body Peel and my skin was definitely more hydrated for a few weeks afterwards.

If you are lacking energy or your body is feeling sluggish, I highly recommend giving this a try.

I went to SleekSculpt in Plumstead, Cape Town, and their pricing is R2900 for 10 sessions, and then R250 per session for maintenance. If you have any questions, feel free to give them a shout here.

Holding image: Shutterstock