© Gustavo Fring
March 22, 2026
Marianne Waldenfels
How the lymphatic system affects skin, energy, and well-being – and what helps to support it, explained by Ilumaa Lymphatic founder Sigrid Kopp
The lymphatic system is one of the most underestimated yet crucial systems of our body. It detoxifies, regulates fluid balance, and plays a central role in our energy levels, skin appearance, and overall well-being. When this natural flow is disrupted, it often shows quickly – through fatigue, swelling, or a feeling of heaviness.
Unlike the circulatory system, however, the lymphatic system requires active support: through movement, targeted impulses, and conscious care. This is exactly where ILUMAA LYMPHATIC comes in.
Founder Sigrid Kopp brings over 20 years of experience in sports, nutrition, and coaching. With her brand, she pursues a holistic approach that combines modern lymphatic techniques with intuitive self-care. Her goal: to develop products that can be effortlessly integrated into everyday life – and support the body in rediscovering its natural flow.
In the interview, she explains why the lymphatic system is so crucial, what throws it off balance – and how we can specifically strengthen it in our daily lives.
Why is the lymphatic system so important for the body?
For me, the lymphatic system is one of the most fascinating systems of our body because it is simultaneously responsible for cleansing, balance, and regeneration. You can think of it as a kind of internal transport system. It collects excess fluid, metabolic products, and waste products, bacteria from the tissue, and brings them back into the bloodstream so they can be excreted.
When this flow is functioning well, you often feel automatically lighter, more energetic, and balanced. However, when it slows down, you often notice it very quickly – for example, through swelling, heavy legs, fatigue, or even skin that appears dull.
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Sigrid Kopp, founder of ILUMAA LYMPHATIC. The health expert has over 20 years of experience in the fields of sports, nutrition, and coaching.
Why does the lymphatic system often get stuck?
The lymphatic system is heavily dependent on movement and lifestyle. Unlike the heart, it doesn't have its own pump. It is activated by muscle movements, breathing, and changes in pressure in the body.
In our everyday life, many people sit a lot, move too little, experience stress, or don't get enough sleep. Hormonal changes, travel, long flights, or heat can also cause lymph circulation to slow down. This quickly leads to a feeling of heaviness or water retention in the tissue.
How do Ilumaa Lymphatic treatments differ from medical lymph massage?
Classical medical lymph drainage is a form of therapy primarily used for medical indications such as lymphedema. It follows very strict therapeutic protocols.
At Ilumaa Lymphatic, I work with a modern, Brazilian-inspired lymph technique that combines gentle drainage with more dynamic shaping movements. This not only activates lymph flow but also improves tissue metabolism and skin appearance.
Our treatments are therefore more of a holistic beauty and wellness treatment aimed at reducing congestion in the body, defining the silhouette, and simultaneously improving body awareness.
What effects can be expected after an Ilumaa Lymphatic Massage?
Many clients report feelings of lightness and a defined body feeling immediately after the treatment. We often also see that swelling is reduced and the tissue becomes firmer.
In the long term, regular treatments can contribute to the skin appearing firmer and contours becoming more visible overall. Many women also come during and after pregnancy or following surgical procedures.
What should be observed following the treatment?
After the treatment, it is sensible to support the body. I always recommend: drink plenty of water, engage in light movement, such as going for a walk, and avoid alcohol and very heavy meals immediately afterwards. This allows the body to continue the stimulated metabolic process optimally.
Can you tell us something about your background?
Movement and bodywork have actually accompanied me my whole life. I was involved in competitive dance sports at an early age and have always been interested in the body, movement, and health.
Later, I completed numerous trainings in fitness, nutrition, anatomy, and personal training, which led me to become a speaker and presenter in these fields. In my 30s, I opened studios and fitness schools in Germany and also in Estonia. Through the topic of fascia, I came to the lymph system.
A special chapter was also my work as a coach and trainer at 'The Biggest Loser', where I saw how much a body can change when it is properly supported.
From all these experiences and from the 'need', my Functional Beauty Brand Ilumaa Lymphatic was eventually born. I wanted products that combine natural ingredients and lymphatic support to help people feel lighter, more energetic, and more comfortable in their bodies again.
How do your body and face oils support your treatments?
Our oils were developed precisely from the experience in treatments. They are meant to optimally support the skin during massage and at the same time allow for a small ritual at home that can be intuitively implemented.
The body oil is suitable for daily intuitive use and is wonderful for a short self-massage, for example, after showering or after dry brushing. Due to its water-free formulation, it has particularly high bioavailability, supports the skin, and provides it with natural ingredients.
The face oil is my daily companion, whether in winter or summer. I also use it intuitively as a rich care or gladly in combination with gentle drainage movements or the Gua-Sha. It is free of water or other preservatives and gives a wonderful instant glow.
What is special about your magnesium spray?
Magnesium plays an important role for muscles, nerves, and relaxation. Many people only perceive it as a supplement, but using it on the skin is my absolute insider tip.
Our magnesium spray contains pure Zechstein magnesium from one of the oldest sources, along with natural ingredients like bergamot and aloe vera, which soothe and care for the skin.
I especially recommend it in the evening or after a long day – for example, sprayed on the legs, shoulders, or back. Many people report that it helps them relax faster and sleep better.
Tip: apply 1-2 sprays to the soles of the feet before sleeping.
What can I do in daily life to support a healthy lymphatic system?
Often, it's the small everyday things that make a big difference.
Exercise is probably the most important factor – even a walk can help stimulate lymph flow. Conscious breathing, sufficient water, and regular exercise are also very helpful.
I also recommend simple rituals such as dry brushing, light self-massages, or contrast showers. They can help the body activate the natural flow in the tissue.
