If you are having issues with dry skin that is flaking or painful, or have rough areas of skin then dry skin brushing may be for you. It is also great if you just want to look after your skin and give your body a regular boost.
It is a simple technique and requires only minimal equipment. Not only that, it has a lot of benefits apart from improving your skin.
Below is all you need to know about dry skin brushing. I’ll take a look at the what it is, why you should do it and how to do dry brush skin properly.
What Is Dry Skin Brushing
Dry skin brushing is a method of exfoliation that is natural and mild. It is also very simple.
All you need is a non-synthetic or natural bristle brush (like these). You then use the brush all over your body to remove dry skin.
As the name ‘dry’ suggests, there is no need for lotion, soaps, or even water. Simply brush your body gently making sure to get every part and then take a shower (or bath) straight after.
The Benefits of Dry Skin Brushing
There are several benefits to dry skin brushing other than exfoliation. Some of these you can’t get from other dry skin removal methods.
Stimulate Lymphatic System
One of the key benefits of dry brushing occurs to the lymphatic system by helping to remove cellular waste. The dry brushing technique helps open the cells and system to cycle the waste out. This in turn helps to rebuild the skin and cellular system.
Improved Circulation
Poor circulation can cause many problems with the skin including a build up of dry skin cells and fat in certain areas.
Dry brushing increases circulation which stimulates your cells. This removes metabolic waste from the body and helps the skin distribute natural oils. Your skin will be softer and smoother over time without the need for over the counter lotions.
Stress Relief
Another leading benefit to dry brushing is the ability to add a new level of stress relief to your routine. The act of dry brushing can stimulate the skin and help release tension throughout the body without the need for a hard or deep tissue massage.
It can also be relaxing and help if you are having a sensory overload. It is especially good if you need a calming feeling to help reduce the stress from your day.
Following dry brushing with a hot shower can help relieve even more tension and stress. Ideally, you would follow all that with some relaxing alone time or meditation.
Cellulite Reduction
With improved blood circulation and waste removal, cellulite is also reduced with dry brushing. The brushing breaks down trapped toxins in fat cells (cellulite) and allows the body to easily eliminate them.
What Brush To Use For Dry Skin Brushing
Use a brush with natural bristles as synthetic bristles can cause damage to your skin and may be too harsh. A soft bristle brush will be gentler on your skin.
When you think of the softness and quality of the brush, think of something like a makeup brush and how it feels if it is too coarse. It can hurt and it feel like it is actually cutting into your skin.
A high quality brush made of natural bristles will not have this same effect. It will be gentle enough to use daily if you need to.
There are brushes specifically for dry skin brushing, many under $20. Ideally get one with a long handle so you can also do your back.
If you can’t find one of these, consider a natural brush suitable for sensitive scalps or children and toddlers. This would be soft enough to get you started.
How To Do Dry Brush Skin Properly
So, now you know all about dry skin brushing including what the benefits are and how to make them work for you.
It’s time to put it into practice. Here are the basic steps for how to dry brush skin properly and get the most from your brushing routine.
1. Get Your Skin Ready
Before getting started, it is important that your skin is dry and has no lotions or sweat. Don’t do it straight after a workout!
The best time is first thing in the morning before you shower.
2. Get in the Shower (or Bath)
When you start your dry skin brushing, make sure you are doing it in the shower or bath. You don’t want to do it in the bathroom, bedroom, or other part of the home.
In the shower or bath the dry skin is contained and easily removed from the area.
This way the dry skin will go down the drain and not be on your clothing, household items, or anywhere in the room. This is for sanitary reasons, but also to help you get in the routine of bathing following your dry skin brushing.
3. Brush Your Entire Body
No skin should be left unbrushed! Make sure to brush your entire body. Don’t avoid areas like breasts and other sensitive areas of the body. All you need to do is brush lighter in these areas, but do not avoid them.
Start at your feet, move up your legs with upward strokes towards your heart. Once the lower body is done, move from your hands and up your arms with a similar movement towards the heart.
Now, do your back (hopefully you have a long handled brush). If you can’t reach it, get your partner to help out here.
Last, work on your abdomen, chest and neck in a clockwise direction. All up, it should take less than 5 minutes.
4. Turn on the Shower (or Bath)
Showering or bathing straight after brushing removes any remaining skin. It will also serve to clean the pores and rejuvenate the cells.
One suggestion is to start with hot water (as hot as you can stand) and gradually decrease the temperature.
The hot water will open your pores and help with further cleansing. As the water cools, the pores will tighten and firm up the skin.
5. Towel Off and Oil Up
Now you are done, time to pat yourself dry with a soft, fluffy towel. You can apply a natural oil (such as coconut, jojoba or almond oil) or lotion (like this one) afterwards.
Though you can add several steps into your dry skin brushing, these are the basic steps to get you started. In time, you may want to make this part of a spa and relaxation routine and add some essential oils.
These are all my tips and tricks you need to get started with dry skin brushing. The key point to keep in mind is to be gentle and work with what your body needs.
Start slow, decrease or increase depending on your skin’s needs and enjoy the way it makes your body feel.