How To Dry Brush: Benefits, Risks And Everything You Need To Know
This beauty ritual has been around for centuries, however it has just recently gained popularity. Dry brushing is a part of the Ayurvedic medicine. But it is quite common in many other cultures as well, such as Japanese, Greek, and Egyptian. Throughout history, it is believed that dry brushing has a lot of health benefits. So, if you’ve been wondering how to thoroughly exfoliate your body and achieve beautiful glowing, rejuvenated skin, you may want to include this method into your self-care routine. This, plus many more benefits can be achieved with just a bristled brush and the right movements. In order to reap all the advantages of this ancient technique, you will first need to learn how to dry brush. That’s why today we will be taking a look at everything you need to know about dry brushing. This includes all the benefits, possible risks and the proper technique.
Dry brushing is a part of the Ayurvedic medicine
What Is Dry Brushing?
Okay, but what really is dry brushing? This is a form of skin exfoliation that is done manually with a soft-bristled brush. And as you guessed by its name, it is done on dry skin. You take the brush, and you gently massage your skin in an upward motion towards the heart. That’s the general gist of it. A perfect addition to your self-care Sunday ritual, if you ask us.
Dry brushing is a form of skin exfoliation that is done manually
Benefits Of Dry Brushing
Now that we know what dry brushing generally is, let’s talk more about all of these amazing benefits we keep on mentioning.
There are all kind of brushes
Exfoliation
As we mentioned, the main benefit of dry brushing is exfoliation. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin. Within this layer, oil and dirt gets trapped. On the face, this causes blackheads. With the brush, you brush these cells away. This leaves the skin feeling smoother, softer, improves its appearance and helps topical treatments become more effective.
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells
Encourages Circulation
You’ll notice that after dry brushing your skin may appear a bit red. This is a type of inflammation, but don’t worry! It’s just the result of increased blood circulation withing the areas you’ve been brushing. Your body is pushing more blood there.
Brushing encourages circulation
Lymphatic Drainage
Just like doing a Gua Sha face massage, dry brushing also helps with lymphatic drainage. Blood carries lymph fluid. This fluid filters through lymph nodes. By using the dry brushing method you help speed up the blood pumping rate. This helps the lymph get through the body as fast as possible. Consequently, this detoxifies the body and removes any pathogens.
Dry brushing helps get rid of toxins within the body
Skin Plumping
While this benefit has yet to be scientifically proven, many women swear by it. After dry brushing, people report that their cellulite is much less noticeable. This may be because of the brush’s pluming effect on the skin. Not only that but this technique may also help with the appearance of sun damage.
Enjoy vibrant, soft and beautiful skin
Stimulates Nervous System
The act of dry brushing may help you feel better mentally and physically. This is because it stimulates the nervous system. This leaves you with a nice, clean, satisfying feeling. Just like going to a massage, but at home!
Dry brushing stimulates the nervous system
Self-Care
While there are plenty of health benefits to dry brushing, one that’s not often talked about it’s mental impact. It is a form of self-care, just like skin care. By doing this method, you are encouraged to take a second to yourself and focus on your body. The few extra steps put into your self-care routine can help you feel energized and invigorated.
Who doesn’t love a good self-care routine?
How To Dry Brush?
Dry brushing feels amazing to the skin. That is, as long as you are doing it the right way. You shouldn’t feel discomfort while dry brushing but rather like an enjoyable scratch. That’s why today we are going to show you how to dry brush properly.
- Find the right brush. Make sure you use a natural, soft bristled brush with a long handle. Make sure the bristles feel comfortable on your skin.
- Start from your feet. Apply some gentle pressure and start to sweep upward with the brush. After you’ve finished brushing the legs, move up to your upper body.
- Once again brush upwards, however this time in circular motions.
- Move onto the neck and décolletage. However, here start at the jaw and brush towards tour chest.
- After you are done brushing the whole body, hop in the shower. This will help remove any dry skin.
- Once you have showered, make sure to apply some moisturizer, a body butter or some oil. This will help nourish the skin.
Make sure you’re not applying too much pressure
Tips and Tricks
- Dry brushing is most effective when it’s done before showering.
- Make sure your skin is dry before starting.
- Do it in the shower (without water on) as it will be easier to clean up.
- Use circular, wide, clockwise motions.
- You can dry brush every day, however do what feels best for your skin.
- Do long strokes.
- As a general rule brush towards the direction of the heart.
Video Tutorial
Check out this video tutorial
Risks Of Dry Brushing
Since people are different, dry brushing may not be for everyone. It’s best to avoid dry brushing if you have eczema, psoriasis, sensitive or inflamed skin. It’s also important to not dry brush over an open would as that can introduce bad bacteria. If you also brush too hard you may cause skin damage which will lead to irritation, scratches, soreness, and dryness. Also follow the right technique and be gentle.
Get a long handle brush to be able to reach everywhere
