top of page
Frame 6.png

Easy Plant-based Cuisine

Embark on a flavourful journey

Writer's pictureEvelin Bandeira

Why Brush the Body — and How To Do It! (Dry Brushing)

If you’re looking for a natural way to exfoliate and rejuvenate your skin, dry brushing could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Find all you need to know in this article!


dry brush the legs

Let's dive into this ancient practice, understand how to do it correctly and what areas you need to avoid, and the benefits it can offer your body and skin.


What is Dry Brushing?

Dry brushing consists in using a stiff-bristled brush to massage your skin, typically done before showering. It's a very ancient practice that has gained traction for a reason.


How To Dry Brush Your Skin

Here's a little manual for you to follow when dry brushing your skin:


  • Start from your feet and work your way upward with long, fluid and gentle strokes on your limbs towards your heart.

  • Do the same when you start on your arms, begin at the hands and work upward using firm, small strokes or work in a circular motion.

  • Use circular motions on your torso and back, adjusting the pressure for sensitive areas.

  • For the stomach, brush in a clockwise direction.

  • Avoid brushing over moles, warts, or raised bumps, and never brush over broken or irritated skin.

  • Dry brush once a day before showering to remove any loose dry skin.and moisturise after.

Always be gentle: harsh exfoliation is not the point; be sure to use a brush that’s not too stiff and dedicate between three and five minutes to dry brushing when you can to really see the results.


Benefits

This practice helps to remove dead skin cells, increase circulation, detoxify the body, aid digestion, and it's believed to even improve the appearance of cellulite. Let's break it down below:


  • Detoxification: by unclogging pores and promoting lymph flow, dry brushing helps detoxify the skin and enhance its natural cleansing process.

  • Stimulates the Nervous System: dry brushing can invigorate your senses and leave you feeling refreshed, similar to the effects of a massage. In Ayurveda, it is traditionally used to rid the body of ama (toxins built up in the body) and stimulate the lymphatic system.

  • Radiant Skin: Regular dry brushing can help reveal smoother, softer skin and give it a brighter appearance.

  • Gentle Exfoliation: Unlike scrubbing in the shower, dry brushing exfoliates without stripping away moisture, making it gentler on the skin.


What about cellulite? Let's debunk this myth:


Some people talk about the effects of dry brushing on cellulite, but there is no scientific evidence to substantiate that claim. Yes, you might see a temporary improvement, but it's due to blood flow in the region.


Choosing the Right Brush

To reap the benefits of dry brushing, it’s essential to use the right brush. Look for a natural stiff-bristled bath or shower brush with a long handle for those hard-to-reach areas.

The products above might contain affiliated links.


Is it for everyone?

Beneficial for most skin types? Yes! But if your skin is sensitive, you should proceed with caution - maybe even consider using a dry washcloth instead. The results ill be almost the same.


Consistency is Key

Dry brushing alone doesn't make miracles, but it can improve circulation and lymph flow, which contributes to a smoother skin. Consistency is key, so aim to dry brush daily for optimal results, always thinking of it as part of your skincare routine.


This routine offers numerous benefits for your skin and overall health when done correctly. By following the techniques we told you and using the right brush, you can enjoy smoother, radiant skin and support your body’s natural detoxification process. So why not incorporate dry brushing into your beauty routine and experience the difference for yourself?



Comments


bottom of page