Dry Brushing
What is it?:
A technique used before showering to help exfoliate dead skin cells. This is considered a mechanical (or physical) form of exfoliation.
When did it originate?:
There is no exact date to be found for when this technique was created, but it dates back to ancient Egyptians, Indians, Greeks, Romans, Chinese, Japanese, Scandanavians, Russians, Turks, and Native Americans. Chinese would use fibers from dried fruits and vegetables to attach to a sponge in order to create one of the earliest versions of the dry brush.
What is this technique good for?:
It helps to exfoliate dead skin and enhances blood flow. Also known to help open the pores (which allows for better absorption of products), develops muscle tone, relaxes muscle tension, refreshes the nervous system, and also aids digestion. It has also been said that this technique can help with lymphatic drainage and cellulite, and while this has not actually been proven, blood circulation has been shown to increase from dry brushing, which can then improve blood flow to the lymph nodes and help with the bodies natural detoxification process, thus aiding in lymphatic drainage. This technique can also help to speed up the cell renewal process and “plump” the skin, giving the illusion of a reduction in cellulite.
Dry brushing also helps to stimulate sensory nerves, a.k.a your nervous system, giving you an energetic boost, which is why it’s recommended to do this first thing in the morning!
How is it done?:
With a dry brush and dry skin, begin at your feet or ankles and move the brush in an upward motion (think towards your heart). In order to avoid irritation, do not repeat this process in the same area more than two to three times, and make sure you are using light pressure. You’ll want to do the same when you move on to your arms, starting at your hands and moving upwards. Once you reach your torso, you’ll want to begin moving the brush in a circular motion, still aiming in the direction of your heart.
When you get to your neck area you’ll want to begin using a stroking motion again, this time pulling from the chin or very top of your neck, downwards.
If you’re using this technique on your face, you’ll want to make sure you’re using both a different and smaller brush— one that is meant for use on the face, as the bristles will be much softer. Unlike dry brushing on your body, you’ll want to cleanse your face before beginning. This is not to be confused with a cleansing brush as those serve a different purpose. You’ll want to use similar movements on your face as you would with dry brushing your body, but instead of moving towards your heart, you’ll want to pull from the center of your face, outwards. Using this technique can also be seen as preventative for the usual effects of aging (sagging skin, lack of elasticity, wrinkles, etc.) and is therefore great to utilize a couple times a week in your nightly skincare routine. Just be sure to always maintain light pressure and to not over-do it!
Helpful Tips:
Make sure both your skin and the brush are dry
Do this process before showering, as you’ll want to be able to wash away any dead skin that is exfoliated off
Make sure to clean your brush at least twice a month in order to remove any build-up of dead skin
Avoid dry brushing more than one to two times per week (Doing this excessively can cause irritation, sensitivity, and even tearing of the skin)
Use a brush with a longer handle for hard to reach areas such as your back and feet
Natural bristles are best as these will be more gentle
Always make sure to follow up with a hydrating lotion
Discontinue use of this technique if your skin feels dry or irritated afterwards. This may be a sign that it is not right for your skin type