You may have heard of dry skin brushing and you may know it’s good to do it as part of your skincare routine.
What you may not know is what the overall benefits are of dry brushing.
The first obvious thing is it removes dry skin, but did you know what dry skin brushing offers that you don’t get from other dry skin removal methods?
Here are some of those benefits to consider regarding implementing a dry skin brushing routine.
Lymphatic System
One of the key benefits of dry brushing happens with the lymphatic system. This is an important benefit because this system helps remove cellular waste.
The dry brushing technique helps open the cells and helps the system to cycle out the waste and to rebuild the skin and cellular system. It also helps to prevent blockage in this system.
Think of it as opening up blocked pores over your body and ensuring things are cycling out properly, whilst allowing the area to be cleaned properly as well.
Circulation
Poor circulation can cause a number of problems with the skin. This includes a build up of dry skin cells and a build up of fat in certain areas.
The increase in circulation as a result of the dry brushing technique can help stimulate your cells just like with the lymphatic system. The increased circulation helps to remove metabolic waste from the body. This, in turn, can help the skin distribute natural oils which makes the skin softer and smoother over time without the need for over the counter lotions that can have harmful chemicals and ingredients.
Stress Relief
Another leading benefit to dry brushing is an additional way to bring stress relief. Dry brushing can stimulate the skin and help release tension throughout the body without a hard massage or deep tissue option.
Having a hot shower after dry skin brushing can also help relieve even more tension and stress. Ideally, you would follow all of that with something equally relaxing like alone time or reading a book.
These benefits can help people with mild to moderate skin irritation and issues. If you have more serious issues, you may want to consult a doctor before starting the dry brushing technique in your routine. They can guide you to how often you should be doing it and if there are any additional steps you need to take in your routine.
How to Dry Brush your Skin
Using a natural-bristle brush is best. When you first start it’s best to use one with softer bristles and then build up to a stiffer one if you feel it’s right – but not too stiff as that can hurt and do more harm than good!
Brushing should be done upwards in the direction of the heart or the centre of the body. Start at the feet and brush the soles of your feet. The brushing should be done gently at first and then you can apply more pressure as you get used to it. Use 2 or 3 strokes on each part of your body.
Brush upwards on your legs, one at a time. Move to your buttocks and brush upwards. Use a circular motion over your stomach – be extra gentle here especially if you have stretch marks.
Repeat with the hands and arms and chest. If you have a brush with a long handle then also brush your back.
It’s best to do dry brushing earlier in the day rather than before bed because it can actually stimulate your circulation which could prevent you from sleeping.
Enjoy!
