Have you ever experienced the effects of running a dry, stiff bristled brush over your skin? According to Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center, dry brushing your skin using stiff bristles boosts blood circulation and exfoliates dead skin cells, thereby oxygenating the skin so it can breathe and be most receptive to nourishing body creams.
It’s called dry brushing as this practice of gently brushing and massaging your skin with a body brush with stiff, natural bristles is done without the use of water – both your skin and the brush should be dry.
What are the benefits?
Exfoliates the skin
Boosts blood circulation
Stimulates the lymphatic system
Improves the appearance of cellulite
While the bristles brush off dead skin cells and boost blood circulation, the pressure of the brushing movement is said to stimulate the lymphatic system which drains excess tissue fluids and contributes to monitoring of the immune system and the transportation of fatty acids. Lymph, the fluid which flows through the lymphatic system, plays a role in cell survival and carries immune cells and metabolic waste (toxins).
Unlike blood, which is pumped through the body by the heart, lymph moves in the body according to a person’s movements. Thus, the gently pressure and massage of dry brushing can easily boost the lymphatic system. One resulting benefit is the reduction of the appearance of cellulite.
How to dry brush
Invest in a natural stiff-bristled dry brush with a long handle. Just how stiff the bristles should be should depend on your skin’s sensitivity.
Gently start dry brushing by making long strokes moving upward on your skin, directed towards your heart to get your lymphatic system going. Pass the brush an average of three times over each body region. On the belly, a clockwise application of the brush is recommended. Apply as much or as little pressure as is comfortable for you.
When to dry brush
Most people dry brush before they shower and, after showering, apply a moisturizer enriched with vitamins. This helps the skin to absorb the cream’s nutrients and to hydrate during sleep.
The recommendation is to do this once a week, provided you have no skin problems. It is generally not recommended for anyone with sensitive skin as it may cause irritation and over-dryness. In extreme cases, it may lead to the appearance of acne, rosacea, and eczema.
Once a week, why not take a few minutes before taking your shower to dry brush your skin? It’s like a massage, but one that will leave your skin exfoliated and ultra-soft and offers a few health benefits to boot!
