Dry body brushing has gained significant popularity in recent years, but it’s actually an age-old practice. Ancient Japanese used to brush their skin before bathing, and Greek athletes did the same to boost circulation after workouts. More recently, in the past 30 years, a Finnish doctor recommended dry brushing to his patients to detoxify, exfoliate, and invigorate their skin.

With all the attention we give to our facial skincare, isn’t it time we extend the same care to the rest of our body?

What is Dry Brushing?

Dry brushing involves using a coarse, dry brush to scrub the skin in specific patterns to enhance skin quality and overall health. While scientific research on dry brushing is limited, it’s a favorite among naturopaths and beauty experts. Many enthusiasts claim it can:

1. Remove Toxins
Our lymphatic system is our body’s waste removal network. It collects waste from tissues and transports it through the blood for elimination. If the lymphatic system is sluggish, waste and toxins build up in the tissues, potentially leading to inflammation and disease. Dry brushing is a great way to boost lymphatic drainage, keeping everything moving and preventing toxin buildup.

With exposure to countless toxic chemicals daily, adding dry brushing to your routine is a wise move.

2. Boost Circulation
Dry brushing stimulates blood flow, increasing circulation and promoting overall wellness. Poor circulation can cause a variety of symptoms, such as a weakened immune system, cold extremities, swelling, numbness, varicose veins, and fatigue. Regular body brushing can help avoid these issues.

3. Reduce Cellulite
About 98% of women experience cellulite, which creates dimpled skin on thighs, knees, and buttocks. Despite the booming anti-cellulite market, most products are ineffective. Experts suggest cutting out high-sugar foods and sticking to a Mediterranean Diet, along with stimulating circulation and lymphatic drainage through massage and dry brushing, to help reduce cellulite by eliminating toxins that break down connective tissue.

4. Improve Digestive Function
The detoxifying effects of dry skin brushing may support a healthy digestive system. The lymphatic system works with the digestive system to absorb dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins before transporting them into the blood.

5. Beat Bloating
Dry brushing can combat bloating by stimulating the lymph nodes to remove excess water and toxins that cause a swollen feeling. Follow your brushing session with warm water to stay hydrated and help your body release the excess water.

6. Exfoliate the Skin
Our bodies shed thousands of dead skin cells every minute. As we age, this process slows down, causing old cells to build up and leave skin looking dull and dry. Regular exfoliation is crucial, and dry brushing effectively removes these old cells to reveal fresh, glowing skin underneath. Don’t forget to moisturize afterward with coconut oil or shea butter to nourish the new skin.

7. Reduce Acne & Blackheads
Exfoliating isn’t just for a radiant look – it can also reduce blackheads and acne caused by clogged pores and excess oil. While facial dry brushing isn’t typically recommended, using a delicate brush can help reduce acne and blackheads on the rest of the body.

8. Get Rid of Keratosis Pilaris
This common, painless skin condition results in tiny bumps usually on the upper arms, thighs, cheeks, or buttocks. Regular body brushing and moisturizing can help reduce or eliminate these bumps. Ensure adequate vitamin C intake to prevent this condition.

9. Relieve Tension
Taking time to brush your skin can promote relaxation. The repetitive motion can be soothing, easing sore muscles and reducing overall body tension.

10. Boost Energy
Dry brushing gets the blood flowing, which many proponents say gives them an energy boost. It’s best done in the morning to kickstart your day.

How to Dry Brush Your Skin

Choose a Quality Brush
Select a dry brush made from natural fibers, which are gentler on the skin. A brush with a handle is ideal for hard-to-reach areas.

Pick the Right Time
Always brush dry skin before showering to remove the most dead skin cells. Most people prefer to brush in the morning for an energy boost.

Learn the Correct Technique
Start at your feet and brush toward your heart using long, sweeping motions. On your stomach and armpits, use a circular motion. Begin with gentle pressure and increase over time. Brush each area multiple times, overlapping as you go. Spend 10 to 15 minutes on this routine before showering. To boost circulation further, alternate between hot and cold water in your shower. Repeat daily.

Dry Brushing Tips and Aftercare

Dry brushing might leave your skin feeling sensitive initially, but this will diminish over time. Avoid brushing over cuts, wounds, eczema, or psoriasis. After showering, hydrate your skin with natural oils like coconut, sweet almond, avocado, or argan oil. These oils can penetrate more effectively now that the old layer of skin is gone. Drinking hot water with lemon juice can further boost your digestion and skin health. Clean your brush weekly to remove dirt and bacteria.

Dry brushing is a simple yet effective way to enhance your skin’s health and your overall well-being. Give it a try and enjoy the benefits!