I’ve been dry brushing for a few years now and it’s great! It can be really hard to struggle with skin issues like stretch marks, cellulite or dry skin but a natural remedy that might just be your new best friend is dry skin brushing! This is when you use a dry bristle brush on different areas of your skin, preferably on a daily basis. Like anything in the wellness realm, consistency is key, right? Plus, there are several benefits of dry skin brushing. But first, let’s talk about how to dry brush…

How to Dry Brush

Dry skin brushing really is a simple enough method. All you need to do is use a non-synthetic or natural bristle brush on your body to remove dry skin. This brushing technique is done all over your body and with no lotion, soaps, or water. (Although, I find slathering on a good, natural moisturizer afterwards really seals in the deal!)

You simply brush the body gently but firmly in long strokes towards your heart making sure to get every part of your body, going over it two or three times. At your belly, you brush in a clockwise motion. Dry brushing is typically done before showering that way you can simply rinse off any dead skin. Easy enough, right? What I love about dry brushing is that it’s considered to be a more natural and milder form of exfoliation than using over the counter and chemical exfoliating methods that can actually cut or damage the skin.

What You Need for Dry Brushing

The main tool of dry skin brushing is the brush itself. That’s it! You can also use a soft towel that is specifically for the days that you do dry skin brushing as well. This does help at the beginning when your skin is still very sensitive to the entire dry skin brushing process. You will need a brush with natural bristles. Synthetic bristles can cause damage to your skin and will be too harsh.

Also finding a nice, soft bristle brush is optimal! There are two styles of brushes you can choose from: one with a long handle, and one without a handle. I find the handled versions a little more practical and easier to work with. Natural health stores and spa supply shops will have just the type of brush you need, usually for under $20! Once you get used to the technique, you can always level up your game and purchase a nicer brush or a brush with higher quality bristles.

Why Should You Try it?

There are several benefits to dry skin brushing. One of the main benefits is, of course, the removal of dry skin from the body. I also find that it’s super energizing so I like to dry brush first thing in the morning. Some of my clients find it to be relaxing and help with a sensory overload when they’re feeling stressed. Here are some other benefits to consider when adding a new dry skin brush to your routine

Benefits of Dry Brushing

Lymphatic System

One of the key benefits of dry brushing occurs to the lymphatic system. This is an important benefit because this system helps remove cellular waste. The dry brushing technique helps open the cells and the system to cycling the waste out and to rebuilding the skin and cellular system. It helps prevent blockage in this system as well. Think of it as opening up blocked pores and making sure that things are cycling out properly and allowing the area to be cleaned properly as well.

Circulation

Poor circulation can cause a number of problems with the skin including a build up of dry skin cells and a buildup of fat in certain areas. The increase in circulation that is caused by the dry brushing technique can help stimulate your cells just like with the lymphatic system. This increased circulation helps with the removal of metabolic waste from the body which can help the skin distribute natural oils making the skin softer and smoother over time without the need for over the counter lotions that can have harmful chemicals and ingredients.

Reduction in Cellulite

Some people swear by dry brushing for cellulite! Cellulite happens when pockets of body fat gets pushed against the vertical connective tissue surrounding fat cells. That puts pressure on your connective tissue, which ultimately pushes the fat against the top layers of the skin. Dry brushing helps promote circulation and lymphatic drainage, which in turn can help reduce inflammation, strengthen your connective tissue, and minimize the appearance of cellulite.

A Few More Dry Brushing Tips

Get in the Shower

One of the first steps you need to take to dry skin brushing is to get in the shower. You want to be in a place where the dry skin is contained and can be removed from the area easily. You will also be showering right after the dry skin brushing in order to remove the extra skin that the brush may not have removed. It will also serve as a method to clean the pores and rejuvenate the cells. If you do not want to shower, you can choose to take a bath instead. As long as one or the other follows the dry skin brushing.

Brush Your Entire Body

One thing that you may be questioning is what part of your body you should dry brush. The truth is you should be brushing your entire body. You may be wondering how to handle 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. You need to remove the dry skin from every area of your body to keep your skin cells moving and to keep the skin health in good standing. So, the answer is brush your entire body – avoiding nothing!

Healthier Skin Awaits

I recommend dry brushing at least once a day before showering for optimal results. If you have sensitive skin, it’s okay to work your way up to that! Start with twice weekly and slowly increase your frequency.

Dry brushing is a simple way to improve your wellness routine with minimal time, money, or effort required on your end. Give it a try and see the benefits for yourself! After all, there’s really nothing to lose – besides a little dry skin, right?