The lymphatic system is a system of vessels beginning just under the surface of the skin, which serves to remove waste from around tissue, and forms part of the body's immune system.
"Lymphoedema is a swelling that develops as a result of an impaired lymphatic system. This may be as a result of the lymphatic system not developing properly, or through damage or trauma ... It can affect any part of the body but is most commonly seen in an arm or a leg. Although thought to be relatively uncommon, a recent study has estimated that at least 100,000 people in the UK may be affected by this condition."
~ From the Lymphoedema Support Network, UK reg. charity 1018749
My mother was diagnosed with lymphoedema following surgery and treatment for breast cancer, and it was through her experiences that I first developed an interest in natural skincare.
Initially, a chemotherapy nurse suggested that my mother try an organic diet to help her tolerate the treatment better, and this was such a success (and also so beneficial for my Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) that we began to look into other ways in which we could eliminate more chemicals and toxins from our daily intake. One of the main areas for concern was skincare, so I began to learn how to make lotions and creams at home, and was staggered - not just by how easy it can be - but how much better we felt the natural, organic products were compared to commercial versions that often contain potentially harmful ingredients like aluminium hydroxychloride, SLS and parabens.
If you'd like to know more about some of the controversial ingredients used in commercial skincare products, why they're thought to be dangerous, and the available alternatives, take a look at my blog entry: 'What the heck are you putting on your face? : Potentially Harmful Ingredients in Skincare'.
The skin may become very dry, thickened and itchy, and can crack, leading to infections like cellulitis, in which the limb becomes very red, hot and painful, and will require immediate antibiotic treatment. For this reason, good skincare is vital in the treatment of lymphoedema.
Most recommended for use by lymphoedema patients are mild, unscented products that help keep skin supple, hydrated and protected. As lymphoedema treatments often involve compression therapy, with cuffs or garments being worn on the affected limb, or bandaging to help maintain pressure, it can be doubly difficult to tackle skin dry, itchy skin, but here are a couple of suggestions we have found useful:
1.) Apply a good, hydrating lotion twice a day, ideally as part of a Manual Lymph Drainage massage (your local clinic can advise you on how to do this, or try a factsheet from LSN). I formulated my Unscented Day Lotion recipe specifically for this, using thistle oil and avocado butter to hydrate, and pumpkin seed and macadamia nut oils to nourish and tone skin.
2.) For very dry skin, apply a rich moisturiser as needed, and try to incorporate a rich cream into a weekly massage routine. MLD massage will not only help lymphoedema, but is great for keeping skin healthy and supple. I offer a rich cream made with Juniper Berry, Geranium & Frankincense essential oils; this blend was recommended to me by an aromatherapist friend to help encourage lymph flow, and we have found this is a fantastic addition to my mum's skincare routine. However, you may wish to check with your lymphoedema specialist, GP or other healthcare professional before using products containing essential oils, and do a patch test before using.
3.) Lastly, for very dry skin, or if you have been prone to infections, try using a soap, cream or lotion with neem oil. Neem is a very strong, quite pungent oil traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat skin inflammations and diseases. It has up to 54% Omega 9 content, and is thought to be excellent for protecting and regenerating skin. I am currently working on developing a recipe using Neem and Lemon, to be healing and gently medicated. If you would like further information, or suggestions on where to find good quality neem products, please email me and I would be happy to help.