An Education in Dry Brushing
originally posted July 13th 2016
I heard about dry brushing a little while ago but didn't pay too much attention to it. I was happy with my regular loofah and sugar scrub, and obsessed with coffee scrubs (still am). But then I started noticing dry brushing becoming more and more popular in the beauty world. Ok, so I looked deeper into it. I am blown away! The incredible benefits of dry brushing, and the relatively easy and quick results (not to mention it's basically free; your only cost is what you pay for a brush) have my head spinning. This wellness trick has historical roots that runs deep around the world. It helps to cleanse the body; inside and out.
How to buy a dry brush
You'll want to look for a natural bristle (NOT synthetic) brush with a long handle. This will help with reaching your back and legs etc. The bristles should be firm so you can achieve maximum results. However, the brush that you use on your face should be more delicate. There are quite a few options for dry brushes, you can find them in local stores or online.
How to dry brush
Your skin should be dry and you'll for sure want to do the brushing inside your shower or in the tub. Begin at your feet and work your way up to your heart with long sweeping strokes. Repeat several times in each area, and overlap as you go. If you feel more sensitive in certain areas (i.e. lady parts) be easy on them. Your skin will become less sensitive the more you do it. Your first time dry brushing might take you a little longer, but if you keep up with it you'll breeze right through it like it's second nature. Avoid any areas that have cuts or wounds. Results are only achieved with consistency. Don't skimp you guys! Once you've brushed your whole body, shower and moisturize as usual. If you're brave try and alternate between hot and cold water in the shower. This apparently helps with circulation as well and will help shut your pores. Pat yourself dry with your towel and proceed with your fav creams and lotions. I know you've all read my post with info on what ingredients to avoid (Common Tan Stripping Ingredients), it's not just for the life of your spray tan it's also for the health of your skin. While it is suggested to dry brush everyday, I do suggest avoiding any sort of extra exfoliation while you have your tan. It will fade faster than if your were exfoliating naturally. As always, moisturize moisturize moisturize! That will never change!
How you will benefit
Exfoliation: it removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores very effectively. Instant gratification for even the first time users. Dry brushing seems to be the simplest way of exfoliating (and the cheapest too!)
Cleans pores: as mentioned above, dry brushing daily exfoliates your skin, unclogging your pores. It clears the residue dirt and oils that block your skin from absorbing nutrients effectively. Plus with a clean smooth canvas your spray tan will be applied that much more flawlessly.
Helps with cellulite: ok, what now?? So with the stimulation dry brushing does for your skin, it is also working it's magic inside your body. It helps break down trapped toxins and helps your body eliminate them through its natural channels. Now its not a wonder cure, and you won't rid your body entirely of the pesky dimples (basically because there are multiple reasons cellulite occur). BUT with regular dry brushing you are helping your body's largest organ cleanse itself. Should your cellulite reduce, it's a win win!
Stimulates 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. Many of these lymph vessels run just bellow the skin and proponents of dry brushing claim that brushing the skin regularly helps stimulate the normal lymph flow within the body and helps it detoxify itself naturally. (wellness mama.com)
Stimulates blood flow: the increased stimulation you are providing your body to cleanse and detoxify itself with dry brushing increases blood flow. This is said to increase energy as well.
I'm ALL for a natural exfoliation/detox that doesn't break the bank! Do you think you'll try dry brushing?