A brush? For your body?
Yes! A brush for your body!
The idea of dry body brushing may seem like a lot of extra effort, but it can be enormously helpful on your quest for soft, healthy skin all over. Allow us to explain.
What Are The Benefits Of Dry Brushing?
Dry body brushing clears pores and physically exfoliates your skin, removing dead skin cells from the surface in the process. Just like how your face exfoliants give you a smooth, even canvas that allows the rest of your skincare to absorb better, so too will dry brushing. Which means those lovely body lotions and oils you use will be able to sink in deeper and work better.
Dry body brushing may also assist in boosting your circulation and lymphatic system while discouraging fluid retention. While dry body brushing won’t replace lymphatic massage, it can be effective as a home remedy to get the lymph fluid flowing.
Your lymphatic system (made up of your lymph vessels, nodes and organs like the spleen and thymus) is responsible for keeping lymph fluid moving around our bodies. That lymph fluid carries and delivers lymphocytes (white blood cells that are able to fight infection) all throughout our body which, in turn, will help keep our immune systems firmly in check. The lymphatic system will also filter out toxins and waste from our bodies and aids in the absorption of fats. Put simply: It’s important.
How To Use A Dry Body Brush
- First things first, you need to find your Dry Brush Of Choice. Hunt around for one that’s firm but not too harsh (this will help prevent any broken or irritated skin).
- Make an effort to add dry body brushing into your AM routine, as its energising effects are far better suited to the morning.
- Always brush upwards, towards the heart.
- Optional! Add in a lush body oil if you feel like it.
- Start at your feet and move your brush clockwise. Once you reach the arms, begin at your hands first and continue working your way up.
- Try your best to achieve a rhythmic quality with the motions, keeping each stroke firm and long, except for over your joints (knees, elbows, etc.) where you should adjust your movements to be short and swift.
- Don’t stress about overlapping. It’s actually encouraged so go for it.
- Make sure you don’t skip the areas with lymph nodes (i.e. your armpits, groin, or under your jawline).
- Take extra care around your chest and neck (where skin is more delicate). When you’re ready to wrap it up, finish it all off with a few circular motions across your heart.
Important! You must make sure to clean your brush regularly (with a mild, antibacterial liquid soap and give the bristles a good rinse) then pop it in the sun to dry out every now and then.
Is Dry Brushing Okay For All Skin Types?
Most skin types should have zero issues adding dry body brushing into their routine. But! If you have body acne or ultra sensitive skin, best to steer clear to avoid any irritation. And as always, if you’re ever in doubt, check in with your derm or a trusted skin specialist!
A Few Of The Best Dry Brushes For Your Consideration
Goop’s G.Tox Ultimate Dry Brush
Available from Mecca
Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Body Brush Medium
Available from Net-A-Porter
Black Chicken Remedies Garshana Dry Body Brush
Available from Adore Beauty
Got a Q about dry brushing? Pop it below for an answer and imaginary gold star!
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