While we enjoy good health habits, we also want to make sure we’re spending our time and money on something good. actually Effective. Touted by influencers and celebrities as the secret to glowing skin, dry brushing is said to remove dead skin, stimulate the lymphatic system, reduce cellulite, relieve skin congestion, and more. But you’ve probably heard all of its benefits by now. Today, we’re going to dive into how to dry your brushes so you can achieve smooth, shiny, detoxifying results.
Holistic beauty expert explains how to dry brush
We spoke to facialist, acupuncturist and Chinese medicine expert Brooke Taylor to get all the lowdown on dry brushing. Taylor incorporates dry brushing into some of her delightful and incredibly restorative indoor products, and she shares amazing insights into how dry brushing can be the perfect ritual to incorporate into our daily at-home self-care routines. We loved her suggestions for making the experience a complete and in-depth therapeutic practice.
Keep scrolling to learn all the ins and outs of dry brushing, how to do it, and some proven products to incorporate into your practice.
The history behind dry brushing
Dry brushing continues to gain popularity for its effects, but the concept is far from new. Some say it originated from Ayurvedic medicine, a 5,000-year-old Hindu traditional medicine, where it was known as Garashana. Typically performed in the morning before bathing using silk or linen gloves, the technique is considered suitable for Kapha body types, those with a sluggish lymphatic system. Other ancient cultures that practiced dry brushing include the Japanese, ancient Greeks, Romans, Scandinavians, and Native Americans, and some consider the ancient Egyptians to be the pioneers of dry brushing.
Taylor’s personal love affair with the benefits of dry brushing began when she explained to a savvy spa director in Vail, Colorado, that she couldn’t warm her hands and feet while living in the mountains. “Why don’t you dry brush every day,” declares this guru. It turns out there’s good reason to make it a regular ritual, as it improves circulation. The spa director’s advice dovetailed with her later education in traditional Chinese medicine, which historically used loofahs, better known as loofahs, to soften the skin.
What is dry brushing?
Modern technology has evolved to rely on natural bristles for optimal results. Brushes often vary, with long, strapped or short handles, fiber materials ranging from boar hair to vegan, and with or without massage knobs. These brushes are used on the body in a gentle yet forceful manner to exfoliate, soften and smooth dry skin, and stimulate circulation and help move fluid for a firmer appearance.
Benefits of dry brushing
- Gentle exfoliation. With regular practice, the physical action of the bristles on dry skin will remove surface skin debris, revealing smoother skin.
- Improve blood circulation. This movement helps slow blood circulation as the pressure of the bristles stimulates blood circulation.
- Get ready for deeper hydration. The exfoliating action of dry brushing can make your moisturizer more effective.
- Lymphatic Movement and Gentle Detoxification. While detox may be popular, the effects may be somewhat limited and temporary. However, brushing can move fluid, thereby changing the appearance of your skin, as brushing along lymphatic pathways is thought to improve circulation, stimulating nodes and blood vessels while traveling toward the heart.
- Clear clogged pores. Dry brushing can help prevent clogged or ingrown hair follicles and can help treat keratosis pilaris, especially when used after a shower or bath with a super nourishing balm or oil.
- The skin is plump. Many women use dry brushing to improve the appearance of cellulite. While this benefit may be anecdotal, some people are convinced that it can reduce the appearance of dimples, especially when combined with other beneficial treatments and lifestyle choices. Choose a brush with massage nodules to increase effectiveness in these areas, and plan for regular maintenance.
- Stimulate the meridians. In Chinese medicine, you can’t skip the hands and feet. Meridians (energy pathways that run up and down the body) intersect here, and stimulating these areas can help the system improve sleep and digestion, as well as help warm the extremities.
Dry brushing steps
- Dry brushing is usually done before showering on dry skin.
- Press slightly harder. It may feel slightly worn, but it shouldn’t be uncomfortable.
- Gently brush your hands and feet, covering the meridians of your limbs.
- Gently but firmly, starting at the toes, work your way up, lengthening the stroke and taking your time to circle around the joint.
- Brush in a clockwise direction on the abdomen and décolletage.
- Lift your arms into the air and move them from your elbows to your armpits, and then from your waist up to your armpits.
- Brush fingers, palms and upwards. As long as you move inward toward your heart, you are already determined.
- Follow with a soak, cold rinse and application of nourishing body oil.
- Take your time, breathe, and enjoy.
Tips for getting the most out of your dry brushing session
You can increase the physical and mental benefits of dry brushing by developing a practice habit. If you brush your teeth too often or too hard, your body will let you know. It should not irritate the skin. Just be careful to choose a brush based on your skin sensitivity or texture.
The modern approach to dry brushing is to combine it with other self-care treatments. Practice breathing exercises and mindfulness while brushing, take a cold shower/soak after brushing, and use a nourishing oil blend containing active substances like CBD or vitamins to repair tissue, strengthen skin, or promote fluid flow.
How often should I dry brush?
Twice a week is a good amount to see results. It may take a few times to get used to the feel of the bristles, but you’ll usually grow to like the process and results.
Dry brushing risks
Do not touch sensitive areas with cuts or abrasions, or right after shaving. If you have eczema, psoriasis, or other serious skin conditions, avoid dry brushing as it may irritate them. Going too vigorously can damage the skin – gentle but firm is best. Do not use body brushes on the delicate skin of your face. Finally, don’t share your brushes!
What to look for in dry brushing
- Natural fibers. Plant or animal hair is best. Don’t choose one that’s too hard or too rough.
- A short-handled brush or a handheld brush with a strap is great for grip and ease of use. You can also try using a long-handled brush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Brush care
- Keep dry brushing dry.
- Shake, tap, or wipe with a cloth to remove dry skin.
- If washing with soap and water, be sure to drip dry side down to prevent mold or spoilage.
Best products for dry brushing
From our favorite dry brushing to the most luxurious body oils, if you’re wondering how to dry brush, start with these products.
Our favorite dry brushes have medium-hard bristles that aren’t too dense. Depending on your needs and goals, you can choose a longer handle to help you reach difficult areas like your back. Bonus points for a brush that looks great on your bathroom counter!
Taylor’s storage tip: If you place the bristles down, the weight may crush the fibers over time. I might try hanging this securely somehow so it doesn’t slip and break.
The best body oils for dry brushing have a lovely lightweight texture and complexity for a sensory journey. Use daily morning and afternoon, massaging oil into dry skin. Before showering, use a dry brush to exfoliate, or pair with lotion after showering for a boost of moisture. This ritual feels very luxurious and leaves skin incredibly soft.
It’s always nice to receive!
To experience Taylor’s treatments, book the Oriental Facial Firming Treatment with Body Dry Brushing and choose dry brushing. I can speak from experience: Astonishing Incredibly rejuvenating. Classes include dry brushing and gua sha with warm body oils, followed by gua sha and cupping to contour the face. According to Chinese medicine, dry brushing in this treatment has the amazing effect of increasing blood circulation and softening the skin from head to toe, while also working with the Qi phase. For me, she focused on acupuncture points on the body for energy, as well as liver and digestive support, and I felt energized and soothed after the treatment. She will be happy to tailor a treatment plan for you, just drop her a message.
Many spas offer dry brushing as part of their body treatments, either as part of a specific treatment or as an upgrade to a massage. If you’re an Austin local or one of their other locations, try a treatment from Milk + Honey for a dry brushing experience with a little pampering. This is a great way to experience these technologies first-hand
