How to Dry Brush Skin for Health & Detoxification

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One of the more underrated tools present in almost every daily beauty/personal care regimen is the brush (and no, they’re not just for hair!). Brushes have multiple other purposes, ranging from improving oral health to applying cosmetics. While Americans are very familiar with these common uses, there’s another lesser-known brush technique touted for a range of health benefits: dry brushing.

Although dry brushing has gained recent popularity, this health and beauty ritual is by no means new to the wellness world. From Ancient Greece to Japan, skin exfoliation has been practiced across cultures for centuries using materials such as crushed seashells, sand and even corn cobs. In India, Ayurvedic dry massage (called garshana) is traditionally performed using linen gloves or raw silk. For those of us without raw silk at our disposal (darn!), a natural bristle body brush will do the trick.

WHAT IS DRY BRUSHING?

So what is this trending wellness practice really? Well... it’s exactly what it sounds like—the process of brushing the skin with a firm bristled brush. Pretty simple, though there’s a little more to it (and we’ll get to that soon). 

But first, why bother? 

While there is limited scientific evidence of the health benefits of dry brushing, many swear by this technique and cite numerous positive results. Here are just a few:

HEALTH BENEFITS OF DRY BRUSHING

EXFOLIATION

The natural brush bristles exfoliate skin by removing flaky, dead skin cells. A single dry brush session buffs and softens skin, improving its appearance. Yay, smooth, radiant skin!

CIRCULATORY & LYMPHATIC SUPPORT

A major part of the body’s immune and circulatory systems, the lymphatic system transports lymph (a clear fluid containing white blood cells) throughout the body and helps rid it of toxins and waste. Because many lymph vessels are located directly beneath the skin, dry brushing works similar to massage therapy by stimulating lymph flow and drainage (a natural process sped up by a little help from our brush friend!). 

The stiff bristles also clean skin pores, opening detox pathways for the body to release toxins through sweat. 

CELLULITE REDUCTION

In addition to supporting the lymphatic system, dry brushing increases circulation to the skin, helping to repair and strengthen tissues. One of the most sought after benefits of dry brushing is a reduction in cellulite...you know, those swollen fat deposits many of us would rather go without? By encouraging circulation and lymph movement, regular dry brushing is thought to flush toxins (stored in fat tissue) out of the body, reducing the appearance of these not-so-popular bumpy areas. 

For more information on cellulite (and how to say goodbye to it!), check out this Four Wellness Co. post: Cellulite: What It Is, Why We Get It & How to Reduce It.

ENERGIZING SELF-CARE

Whether due to increased circulation or the benefits of extra self-care lovin’, many people find the practice of body brushing invigorating. For this reason, some prefer to incorporate this wellness practice into their morning routines to take advantage of the extra boost of energy. Add dry brushing into your daily morning regimen as a pick-me-up before your cup of joe. (And if you’re interested in exploring more self-care activities, here are a few Four Wellness Co. favorites!)

DOES DRY BRUSHING REALLY WORK?

With limited formal studies to back up these claims, sources are divided as to whether dry brushing actually works. It’s important to be realistic about the results you’re expecting and find what works for you. Dry brushing isn’t a cure-all, but it can certainly provide noticeable benefits (if you do it right!).

HOW TO DRY BRUSH

Ready to try it out for yourself? Dry brushing is a full body routine and can be practiced once daily, preferably in the morning and prior to bathing. First, purchase a proper dry body brush (this is a good one). Brushes can also be found at most health food stores. If you have sensitive skin, consider starting with a gentle bristle brush and working up to a firmer brush and increased pressure. Replace brushes every 6-12 months and wash them every few weeks.

Now, let’s get to the fun part and start brushing!

  • Start at your feet and work your way up. Brush the soles of your feet, moving up the legs in long, gentle strokes. Work each section of skin with several strokes.

  • Always brush towards your heart (the center of your body), encouraging lymph flow toward the main ducts of the lymphatic system.

  • Continue moving up the body (front and back) to the mid-section, chest, and back. Use long, fluid brush strokes on your limbs, and circular motions in the torso region and midriff.

  • Finish with your arms, brushing the palms first and working up towards the armpits.

Some areas may be sensitive, and it’s okay to use lighter pressure in these spots. Just make sure not to ignore warning signs such as redness (slight pinkness is to be expected), itchiness or pain. Many avoid dry brushing their face (ow!) but if you’re interested in exfoliating facial skin, use considerably less pressure and a gentle facial brush. After dry brushing, take a shower or bath to wash off flaky skin and shed dead skin cells. Apply body lotion or oil to damp skin. 

And voilà—happy brushing!

This post was originally published on Four Wellness Co.