The first time I heard about dry skin brushing, I really didn’t think it was worth a second look. Dry skin brushing is recommended for lists of ailments, and simply brushing the skin couldn’t possibly be that wonderful, I thought. Find out why I was wrong!
By Sara Baker, Contributing Writer
Dry Skin Brushing…Why?
Dry skin brushing has been said to help with all the following:
- brushing away dead skin cells
- increasing circulation
- getting rid of cellulite
- detoxing the body of toxins
- clearing and stimulating the lymphatic system
- allowing the body to sweat more effectively (thus eliminating more toxins)
- better-looking skin
So I decided to give it a try. I was blown away by it, and would love to share with you!
I have explored the claims that dry skin brushing is majorly detoxifying, and I am not sure where on stand on this issue. But whether or not you are detoxifying your body, the other claims make dry skin brushing worth your while!
Dry Skin Brushing…Some Points to Remember
1) You will want to purchase a brush that is specifically for your dry skin brushing. Do not buy a brush with synthetic bristles…it will hurt the skin instead of help it. Buy a natural bristle brush with a long handle and wash it every few weeks with soap and water. Let air dry completely before use.
2) The skin must be dry.
3) The idea is not to brush hard…remember to just stimulate the skin by lightly brushing. If your skin turns red, you are brushing too hard.
4) It is a good idea to take a shower after brushing to wash off dead skin cells. After your shower, apply a natural lotion. Enjoy some great-feeling skin!
The How-To!
Use sweeping motions to brush and always brush towards the heart. Be sure to not rub or scrub. Start with the bottoms of your feet, then the tops of your feet and working up the legs. Don’t forget behind the knees…a major lymphatic area. Brush the buttocks, back and torso…still brushing towards the heart.
Brush the palms of the hands, back of the hands, and arms. Next, brush the underarms (another major lymphatic area) and shoulders. Brush the throat and neck, downwards. The breasts can be brushed but lightly, but not the nipples (I have heard conflicting information on whether or not to brush the breasts at all, so use your best judgement). It has been said that you should brush downwards on the chest and upper part of the stomach.
Try to brush each part of the body each time you dry skin brush. Start to finish (once you are familiar with the process) takes 5-10 minutes!
Effects of Body-Brushing
The first time I dry skin brushed, my skin felt amazing!! It was tingling and my heart was rushing for about an hour afterward (attests to better circulation). My skin felt rejuvenated and I was wide awake (perhaps shouldn’t have done it before bed!) and refreshed.
Sometimes, if I am slightly congested, I notice blowing my nose becomes more productive after dry skin brushing, and clears the mucus out. Also, sometimes when beginning dry skin brushing, you may notice a change in bowels for a short time (mucus in the stool or a large stool). This would attest to detoxification happening. This should be short-lived, and the benefits are most definitely worth it!
I love your articles, but it would be really helpful if you were able to include links to the best places to buy ingredients, tools, etc. needed for the featured item. Some of these things aren’t easily found in local stores.
What would a natural bristle brush be made from and where would I find one?
I have been very interested in brushing. I’d love if you would share your post with us at Eco-KIds Tuesday!!
Sarah, thanks for sharing. I hope you don’t mind answering a few questions I have.
Is it safe to do this will pregnant? How often should it be done? And if it is daily, do you have to shower every time you do it.
Thank you so much.
I was just wondering how often you brush? Once a day? Every other day…?
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