Dry brushing is something I had heard about decades ago, but never actually knew anyone who did it. Over the years, however, I kept seeing it in magazines and I would see the brushes for sale in health stores – long handled ones for the body, small super soft ones for the face, so eventually I took the plunge about a year ago and started giving it a go. I have to say I wish I’d started earlier. On my face particularly, I love the effect. No need for exfoliation anymore, my skin is super soft and it is super simple to do.
For the body, a firm bristled brush is used to basically sweep the skin from toe to head, always brushing towards the heart. Some people do choose to use a little body oil on the brush as it can make your skin very dry. I prefer to add the oil to my skin afterwards as I find it easier to keep the brush clean a hygienic that way.
Part of the beauty of the practise is that it takes up no more than a few minutes each day, which makes it easy to become part of your daily routine. It’s like a mini-spa treatment every day!
Its origins are believed to come from Ayurvedic medicine, but many cultures have used skin brushing to cleanse and beautify the skin, including the ancient Greeks and the Japanese.
Many experts agree that dry brushing has many benefits. First of all it is gently exfoliating, removing that top layer of dead skin cells on a daily basis. After a dry brushing session your skin will feel softer and smoother. It also increases circulation, leaving skin looking more radiant. Finally, it is also said to be invigorating and energizing, which could be due to the increased circulation effect
It should be pointed out that is not the right option for everyone – you should never dry brush over eczema, psoriasis, rashes, wounds, sunburn or any other skin irritations.
Equally, if your skin starts to get irritated by the process of dry brushing either scale back the frequency and the rigorousness or stop altogether. The most usual problem is brushing too hard OR using a brush with bristles that are too stiff. Both of these issues can be remedied very easily, of course.
The nice thing about dry brushing is you don’t need much to get started—just a brush. And since dry brushing has become fairly popular, brushes are easily found. Try your local health food or beauty supply store, or search online.
Most dry brush experts recommend a natural bristle brush.1 These are made from plant sources like jute, sisal, even cactus fibers.
Don’t be tempted to buy a brush with super stiff, hard bristles. Firmer bristles don’t mean better dry brushing. If it feels like you’re running a wire grill cleaner across your skin, get a different brush. Your brush should never leave red marks, abrade the skin, or feel uncomfortable.
The brush you use for your body won’t work for the face. Instead, you’ll need a smaller brush with much softer bristles. If even soft-bristled brushes are too abrasive for your face, consider using a soft washcloth instead.
Keeping your brush clean is also critical to your skin health. Keep it dry in between uses, clean every few days. You can use a mild soap and water, just be sure to let it dry out completely before using again. Or you can use corn starch – rub it into the bristles well and shake out excess. A small amount of rubbing alcohol can also be used.
The dry brushing process isn’t complicated, so don’t be too worried about getting doing it “right.” Once you’ve done it a few times, you’ll develop a technique that works for you.
Some proponents suggest doing your dry brushing in the morning, rather than before bed, because of its stimulating and energizing qualities. Do whatever is convenient for you.
Use light smooth strokes, working from your toes up to your head. Do the front and back of each part of the body in turn, but do not brush any one spot more than twice. Remember the whole process should take just a few minutes. If you are doing your face as well, do this at the end (or some days I just do my face) and remember to switch to the face brush.
The frequency of repetition is up to you, whatever you feel comfortable with. Maybe start with once a week and build up to once a day if you feel that’s right for you. Whatever you choose, you should feel good when doing it and afterwards your skin should feel soft and smooth.