I first learned of dry brushing about two years ago, and I have been hooked ever since. The idea was completely foreign to me, but I was very excited and intrigued to try it out. So, what is dry brushing exactly? It’s actually just what it sounds like – you are literally brushing your skin. Since your skin is your largest organ, it’s important to take care of it!
BENEFITS FOR YOUR HEALTH:
Dry brushing has a myriad of incredible and surprising internal and external benefits for your health. In terms of internal benefits, dry brushing stimulates your lymphatic system—the system in your body that eliminates toxins from your cells. When the lymphatic tubules—which transport waste from your tissue cells to your bloodstream for elimination—are congested, your health suffers. Dry brushing is important in helping the lymphatic system release waste and detoxify your body. Some doctors also believe that the practice of dry brushing improves digestion and kidney function, both of which are also linked to releasing toxins from the body. Lastly, dry brushing increases circulation to your skin, which aids in flushing waste from your body.1
The external benefits are slightly more obvious. Dry brushing removes dead skin cells, which unclogs your pores and allows your skin to breathe. It also improves the softness and appearance of your skin. Many people have found that dry brushing areas with cellulite has helped break down the hardened fat deposits, making their cellulite less noticeable. It has also been known to help heal ingrown hairs. Dry brushing can also be a meditative, relaxing routine before showering that can help relieve stress.2
BENEFITS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT:
Dry brushing is an excellent way to receive all of the benefits mentioned above without having to take medication or use toxic skin products. That being said, those with serious health problems should always consult a doctor. However, in my case, I do not have any serious health problems, so the skin brush is the perfect solution for me. Instead of continuously buying body scrubs that are made of harmful ingredients, I only have to buy one skin brush! Make sure that your brush is made out of natural bristles instead of synthetic ones, because they will hold their firmness over time while still being gentle on your skin. My particular skin brush is made out of natural Tampico fibers from the agave plant, and I have been very happy with how it feels on my skin, while also knowing it was produced in a sustainable manner.3
BENEFITS FOR ANIMALS:
By using a sustainably made skin brush instead of medications or products, you avoid accidentally supporting animal testing. For more information on animal testing: .
Cost: Low. My skin brush was only $7.
Time and Effort: Low. It’s very easy to buy a skin brush—I bought mine at my local Whole Foods, or you can order them on Amazon. The actual practice of dry brushing is also fast – I usually only dry brush for five minutes. However, you can dry brush for as long or as short as you would like.
Materials needed: 1 skin brush
Instructions:
- Buy a skin brush. Again, I recommend one made with natural bristles and a long handle, so that you can reach your back.4
- I recommend dry brushing before you get in the shower. Once you strip down, begin brushing your skin with firm, but gentle strokes, always in the direction of your heart. I like to start at my feet (you can even do the soles of your feet!).
- For the stomach and armpits, brush in a circular clockwise motion.
- Continue brushing for as long as you would like, focusing extra attention on areas with cellulite. Avoid brushing your face and other areas with sensitive skin. I usually brush for about five minutes. Your skin should be pink but not red and irritated. This should not be a painful experience!
- Shower with cool water (or alternate hot and cool water).5
- Repeat daily! As your skin gets used to the brushing, you will be able to brush with firmer strokes. 6 You can even brush twice a day if you’d like ☺