Dry Brushing 101

Why Dry Brush?

Imagine a simple routine that only takes minutes, has health benefits, makes your skin glow and is cost effective! Dry brushing has been around for centuries but is not practiced or very well known in today’s society.

Our skin is considered an organ, and as such, it’s the largest organ of the human body. One-third of the body’s toxins are excreted through the skin, meaning our skin needs daily attention. Directly beneath our skin, we have a delicate network of lymph nodes, ducts, and vessels which play an important part in the removal of toxins. Our lymphatic system not only detoxifies but is also crucial in delivering nutrients and hormones throughout our body. All hormones, waste products and nutrients going to and from cells must pass through the extracellular and interstitial matrix. If they cannot move across properly then toxins will not be released and no nutrients or hormones will work properly - resulting in waste stuck in the body’s tissues. Nobody wants that.

Lymph fluid does not flow on its own, therefore, it’s crucial to get movement throughout the day. This will stimulate fluid flow and support your skin’s detoxification process. Dry brushing is a great way to achieve this!

Benefits

Remove/exfoliate dead skin cells
Cleanse pores
Improve the appearance of cellulite
Stimulate the lymphatic system (improve circulation)
Stimulation of the nervous system
Assist in removal of toxins

Directions

Purchase a natural bristle brush (try to avoid the synthetic brushes) that has a long handle so you can reach all areas of your body. I recommend a soft fibre, plant based brush for those just starting out and who also have sensitive skin (like myself). The brush should never break the skin and it should never hurt.
Strip down to your birthday suit and jump into the shower (but do not turn the shower on because your skin needs to be dry before beginning - hence ‘dry’ brushing). Being in the shower while dry brushing allows the dead skin flakes to easily be cleaned/rinsed away after the process (I know this is gross, but it happens).
Starting at the bottom of your feet, move in long, sweeping motions toward your heart (stroking away from the heart can cause varicose veins and ruptured lymph vessels). Don’t brush too hard! Using soft stokes often works best. Your skin may be slightly pink after brushing, but it should never be red or sting. If it hurts then use less pressure.
Try to brush each section of skin several times, overlapping as you go.
Be sure to brush your entire body and do not to miss a spot (this can take a few minutes). It is important, for women especially, to target breast tissue and lymph nodes under the arm, but be extra gentle over these sensitive areas. Your skin will become less sensitive the more you dry brush.
Once you’ve brushed your entire body bathe as you normally would, to remove any excess dead skin. Sometimes, I like to alternate from the hottest water I can handle to the coldest water I can handle, repeatedly. This helps to stimulate blood circulation, bringing more blood to the top layers of the skin.
Pat yourself dry with a towel (but not completely dry) and apply a natural oil (I love rose hip) to dewy skin. It is best to do this after immediately exiting your shower because your pores have opened up to allow your body to absorb maximum moisture.
Try to do this once a week or as needed. I enjoy dry brushing in the morning because it helps me to feel more energized and gives me a boost to start my day.
Enjoy the amazing results!
As an added step: throw away those in shower loofahs and body scrubs - dry brushing will ensure you have silky smooth skin all year round!

Things To Consider

Sensitive Skin: If you’re like me and have sensitive skin, try to consider purchasing a gentler brush that will not be rough on your skin - be sure to test a small area first.
Be Gentle: You do not want to break your skin and cause any more inflammation. Making sure your brush has soft bristles will ensure this. The skin should be stimulated and invigorated, but not irritated or red.
Brush Towards Heart: This will avoid any pressure put on the valves in the veins and lymph vessels which can result in ruptured vessels and varicose veins.
Clean your Brush: Clean your brush with a gentle soap and rinse with water at least every couple weeks to remove dead skin cells. Allow the brush to air dry on a clean, sunny spot to avoid any mildew build up.
Store your Brush: Do not store your brush in the shower. Make sure to store it away from standing water otherwise it will get wet and be exposed to mildew.