Water retention: how to recognise and relieve it in the salon

What is water retention?

Water retention is a build-up of fluid in the tissues. When exchanges between the circulation and the tissues slow down, some of the water stays there instead of being eliminated. The body then looks more swollen, especially at the end of the day.

It most often affects the legs, ankles, thighs and stomach. It is not linked to body fat: you can have water retention whatever your figure.

Warning signs

• Swollen ankles or feet at the end of the day
• Marks from socks, rings or clothing
• A feeling of heavy or tense legs
• Softer cellulite that varies from day to day
• A figure that “swells” depending on the time of the cycle or the heat
• A finger that leaves a small dent after pressing the skin

These signs vary during the day, with the weather and with activity. That is what distinguishes water retention from an increase in body fat, which is more stable.

Why do we retain water?

Several factors, often combined, contribute to water retention:

1. Standing or sitting for long periods

Without movement, the calf muscles are less effective as a pump and fluids stagnate in the lower body.

2. Heat

Heat dilates the vessels and encourages water to pass into the tissues. This is why ankles swell more in summer.

3. Diet

Too much salt retains water in the body. On the other hand, drinking enough helps the body eliminate better.

4. Hormonal changes

The menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause can make water retention worse at certain times.

5. Lack of physical activity

Walking, cycling or swimming activate venous return and help limit fluid stagnation.

Good everyday habits

• Walk regularly and move your ankles when sitting
• Drink water throughout the day
• Limit very salty dishes and processed foods
• Raise your legs in the evening
• End your shower with a stream of cool water on your legs
• Avoid clothing that is too tight around the waist and legs

Relieving water retention in the salon

Professional draining treatments complement good everyday habits. Their goal: to help fluids circulate and bring back a feeling of lightness.

PSX Active Wave® Pressodynamie® applies dynamic, rhythmic and enveloping pressure, with up to 12 times more stimulations than conventional pressotherapy. The feeling of lighter legs is often felt from the very first session.

For water retention associated with watery cellulite, Pressodynamie® can be combined with Stretching Cellulaire®, which mobilises the tissues. A STARVAC DIAG® body assessment distinguishes water retention, dehydration and body fat so you can choose the right protocol.

Conclusion

Water retention is common and usually harmless, but it affects comfort and the figure. By combining movement, hydration, a lower-salt diet and regular draining treatments, it is possible to regain lighter legs and a more defined figure.

Frequently asked questions

How do you know whether it is water retention or fat?

Water retention varies during the day: swelling in the evening, sock marks, a figure that changes with heat or the cycle. Body fat, on the other hand, stays stable. A body assessment such as the STARVAC DIAG® helps tell them apart.

Does drinking more water help get rid of water retention?

Yes. A well-hydrated body eliminates better. Cutting back on water to “de-bloat” is a false good idea.

Which in-salon treatment helps water retention?

Draining treatments, in particular Pressodynamie®, are the most suitable. They are part of a programme of several sessions, followed by maintenance.

When should you see a doctor?

If swelling appears suddenly, affects only one leg or comes with pain, redness or difficulty breathing, see a doctor without delay.

Find out more

• Water retention: in-salon treatments
• Pressodynamie® with PSX Active Wave®
• The STARVAC DIAG® body assessment