Dry brushing has many potential benefits, from smoother skin to helping with lymphatic drainage.

So what is it and why should you consider doing it?

Dry brushing is exactly what it sounds like… using a dry brush on dry skin in a particular pattern, before showering.

The pattern is not complicated – the skin is typically brushed toward the heart, starting at the feet and hands and brushing toward the chest.

Benefits of Dry Brushing

I’ve been dry brushing my skin for years, mostly because it feels great and makes my skin softer, but there are other benefits as well:

1. Exfoliation

This is commonly thought of as the sole benefit as it the most obvious. The process of running a firm, natural bristled brush over the skin helps loosen and remove dead skin cells, naturally exfoliating skin. I noticed less dry skin and much softer skin in the first few days and weeks after dry skin brushing.

2. Lymphatic Support

The lymphatic system is a major part of the body’s immune system. It is made up of organs and lymph nodes, ducts, and vessels that transport lymph throughout the body. Many of these lymph vessels run just below the skin. Dry brushing helps stimulate the normal lymph flow within the body and helps the body detoxify itself naturally.

3. Clean Pores (& Smaller Pores!)

The added benefit of exfoliating the skin is clearing oil, dirt, and residue from the pores. Use a smaller, gentler dry brush for the face (don’t use the stiffer body brush here… ouch!). I notice that my face is softer and my pores are much less noticeable.

4. Reduces Cellulite

There are lots of people saying their cellulite has reduced. This is probably due to the lymphatic and circulatory stimulation.

Selecting a Dry Brush

The main point here is using a natural bristle brush. Look for one with a long handle, that allows you to reach my entire back and easily brush the bottoms of my feet and the backs of your legs.

When I started dry brushing, my skin was much more sensitive and I preferred the softer one, and now I much prefer the firmer brush.

How to Dry Brush.

Dry brushing can be done daily over the whole body, preferably in the morning before showering. Start with a gentle brush and soft pressure. Work up to a firmer brush and more firm pressure over time.

Here’s How to Dry Brush the Skin:

1. Starting at the feet, brush the bottoms of feet and up the legs in long, smooth strokes. Try to brush each section of skin 5 times. For lymph flow, always brush toward the heart/chest area where the lymph system drains.
2. As a good rule of thumb, always brush toward the centre of the body.
3. Repeat the same process with the arms, starting with the palms of the hands and brushing up the arm toward the heart.
4. On the stomach and armpits, brush in a circular clockwise motion.
5. Continue the process on your back.
6. Some people include their face – but with a much softer brush.

Note: Don’t brush too hard! A soft and smooth stroke often works best. Your skin will be slightly pink after brushing, but it should never be red or sting. If it hurts at all, use less pressure!

After brushing and showering don’t forget to use a natural moisturiser to hydrate and protect your skin.

It is also recommend washing the brush every few weeks to remove dead skin cells.

  

 

 

 

 

 

 
Does Skin Brushing Actually Work?

I have personally dry brushed for years and noticed that my skin is softer (and possibly firmer, though this is hard to measure) from dry brushing. Skin brushing is very invigorating, easy, and a low investment of time and money, so why not give it a try?