If you're dealing with deep, cystic, and often painful spots along the jawline or down the neck (sometimes called "neckne"), it’s likely not just a skin issue.
Many people invest a lot of time and money on skincare products, hoping for relief, only to find that the problem persists. The key thing to understand here is that the skin in these areas sits above some of our main lymph drainage pathways and clusters of lymph nodes.
The Lymphatic System's Role
The lymphatic system is a crucial part of our body’s waste removal process. It transports lymph fluid throughout the body, where it's filtered by lymph nodes before the waste is eliminated via the kidneys and liver. Unlike blood circulation, which is powered by the heart, the lymphatic system has no central pump. Instead, it relies on muscle movement to circulate fluid.
The Real Culprit: Tension in the Head, Neck, and Shoulders
A major, often overlooked, factor contributing to persistent breakouts under the jaw, along the neck, and even on the upper back is muscular and fascial tension. Tightness in these areas restricts the proper flow of lymph, causing waste to be expelled through the skin instead.
This type of tension is extremely common. The muscles that control jaw movements, stabilise the head, and assist in shoulder movement can easily become overworked due to poor posture, lack of stretching, prolonged computer use, and constant phone or tablet use. When these stabilising muscles are forced to act as strength muscles, they quickly tire and become tight, leading to issues like headaches, brain fog, and neck and shoulder pain.
Why Treating the Skin Alone Won’t Help
Applying topical treatments may seem like the logical solution, but when the root cause lies in impaired lymphatic drainage, they often prove ineffective. The skin is simply acting as a backup detoxification organ when the lymphatic system isn’t functioning optimally. To address these breakouts effectively, we need to release the tension in the fascia of the head, neck, and shoulders, allowing proper lymph flow.
Steps to Support Lymphatic Health
If you’re struggling with these breakouts, consider incorporating the following practices:
- Release Tension with Targeted Exercises: Incorporate gentle stretches and mobility exercises for the neck, jaw, and shoulders to encourage lymphatic flow.
- Reduce Added Sugar Intake: High sugar consumption can exacerbate inflammation and impede detoxification.
- Stay Hydrated: Increasing your plain water intake helps support lymphatic circulation.
- Try Epsom Salt Baths: These can aid in muscle relaxation and support detoxification. [Link to our blog post on Epsom salt baths].
- Review Your Skincare Products: Ingredients in non-natural cosmetics (those containing synthetic chemicals) may irritate the skin, causing it to produce more oil as a protective response. While this isn’t the root cause, it can worsen the issue.
Need More Support?
If you have any questions or want to learn more about this topic, feel free to leave a comment or email us at info@lieblinghealth.com. We’re here to help!
