Girl’s, I’ve got your full guide to Dry Brushing! Full disclosure: I used to avoid dry brushing because it exfoliated my spray tan off. (Silly girl) I decided to commit to it for a few weeks, and I have to say, I am living for dry brushing & more bath time! Read on to learn how this beauty ritual can soften your skin, brighten your spirit, and detoxify your body.
The Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is a major part of the body’s immune system. It is made up of organs and lymph nodes, ducts, and vessels that transport lymph throughout the body. Its primary function is to help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. Additionally, it functions to remove excess fluids from body tissues & produces immune cells such as antibody producing cells called plasma cells. Many of these lymph vessels run just below the skin. Our Lymph system does not have a way of circulating itself on its own. It relies on the movement of smooth muscles to transport fluid through the lymph vessels. Many believe that brushing the skin regularly helps stimulate the normal lymph flow within the body, further, helping the body detoxify itself naturally.
Exfoliation
This benefit is often noticed the first time a person dry brushes. The process of running a firm, natural bristled brush over the skin helps loosen and remove dead skin cells, naturally exfoliating skin. It is not uncommon to notice less dry skin and much softer skin in the first few days and weeks after dry skin brushing. My husband even noticed the difference!
Improve Appearance of Pores
The added benefit of exfoliating the skin is clearing oil, dirt, and residue from the pores. Use a smaller, gentler dry brush for the face (don’t use the stiffer body brush here… ouchie!) I notice that my face is softer and my pores are much less noticeable. #winning
Reduces Appearance of Cellulite
Though the evidence is anecdotal, I’ve found many accounts of people who claimed that regular dry brushing greatly helps to reduce cellulite. I can’t seem to find much medical research to back the cellulite claims, but dry brushing feels great and makes skin softer, so there isn’t really any downside to trying it!
Natural Energy Boost
Dry brushing always gives me a natural energy boost. One theory is that because it increases circulation, it also increases energy. I don’t know anyone who couldn’t use a little extra energy.
Selecting a Dry Brush
I have 3 different dry brushes. Go big or go home, right?! I use this Gentle Dry Brush for most of my body (I prefer this to many of the cheaper, coarser options available), and this Body Brush with Handle, which allows me to reach my entire back. My husband loves when I use this one on his back. Lastly, I use this Facial Dry Brush, which has softer bristles, making it perfect for our delicate facial skin.
How often should you dry brush?
While dry brushing can be done daily, I usually only brush 2 or 3 times a week. I brush over the whole body with very soft pressure. The pressure should only be enough to hold the brush and glide it along the skin. ** Prime your body dry brushes with your favorite essential oil for an even more luxurious treatment. Place a few drops of your oil into your palm, and then glide your dry brush over the oil. Then rub your hands together and inhale the whispers of essential oil that remain. Take a long deep breath in, and slowwwwwly exhale……Ahhhhhhhh. If you want to be extra, put some music on that moves your soul, and make this a self loving ritual that celebrates you & your beautiful body. Pro Tip: Dancing while you are doing your dry brushing also helps balance your chakras! (That is a separate Blog Post in itself)
Let’s get to Dry Brushing:
- Starting at the feet, I brush the bottoms of my feet and up my legs in long, smooth strokes. I typically brush each section of skin 3-5 times. For lymph flow, I always brush toward the heart/chest area where the lymph system drains.
- As a good rule of thumb, always brush toward the center of the body.
- Repeat the same process with the arms, starting with the palms of the hands and brushing up the arm toward the heart. Again, I brush each section of skin 3-5 times.
- On the abdomen and underarms, brush in a circular clockwise motion. Brush VERY gently on the underarms, and only 1 or 2 passes, as this area is very delicate. I then repeat the process on my back.
- Lastly, with a cleansed and dry face, I use my Facial Dry Brush. Do half of your face first, for example the left side. Start at the forehead and brush out and down. Follow the “out & down” technique and take it all the way down your neck. Be sure to get the spot directly under your ear and brush down towards your shoulder. Follow the same process for the right side of your face.
Your skin should be slightly pink after brushing, but it should never be red or sting. If it hurts at all, please use less pressure.
Most people like to do dry brushing before a shower or bath. I brush before taking a bath and use a natural moisturizer & oils after my bath. You will find your products absorb much nicer after dry brushing. I am in love with how soft my skin has become. It really is a divine ritual. Happy dry brushing Gorgeous!
You might also like my post all about Palo Santo and how to utilize it in your spiritual practices 😘
The information and other content provided in this blog, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. You should always consult with a physician prior to starting any therapy or device.
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