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A Note to Our Readers: Our health blog sometimes features articles from third-party contributors. We share ideas and inspiration to guide your wellness journey—but remember, it’s not medical advice. If you have any health concerns or ongoing conditions, always consult your physician first before starting any new treatment, supplement, or lifestyle change.

The Body Brushing Guide: How to Use a Dry Brush & Experience the Benefits

  • Writer: Monica Pineider
    Monica Pineider
  • Apr 14, 2020
  • 6 min read

Updated: Dec 11, 2025

Read our Step-By-Step Guide to master brushing the body. Learn about its 5 Biggest Benefits & how to choose the perfect dry brush for your skin type.


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HOW TO DO BODY BRUSHING


DRY SKIN BRUSHING


What Is Dry Brushing?


It is indeed as simple as it sounds! It is brushing the skin with a dry brush, following a particular sequence, usually before showering.


Dry brushing is one of the simplest DIY holistic beauty treatments for achieving a radiant look. We dry brush the skin toward the heart and the lymph nodes, starting at the feet and hands and then toward the chest.




What Are The Benefits Of This Dry Brush Technique?


1. Exfoliates The Skin


It removes dead skin cells. As a result, you can get naturally softer, less dry skin.


2. Supports & Cleanses The Lymphatic System


It increases circulation and removes toxins. As a result, it is a simple DIY way to boost the immune system and reduce fluid retention.


3. Dry Brushing Clears Your Face


It helps to remove oil, dirt and residue from the pores, thus resulting in radiant skin.


face complexion


4. Brushing The Legs May Help To Reduce Cellulite


Consistency is key. But Dry brushing may contribute to softer and smoother skin and, therefore, a reduction of cellulite.


Indeed, board-certified dermatologists endorse the consistent practice of dry brushing for cellulite reduction.


5. Improve the Appearance Of the Skin


It may also improve stretch marks.


6. Generally Safe In Pregnancy


Dry brushing can be a great complementary self-care practice during maternity, alongside pregnancy workouts! Here's why:


  • Improved Circulation: Pregnancy can lead to sluggish circulation. Dry brushing helps stimulate blood flow, energising you and reducing swelling in your legs and ankles.


  • Exfoliation: It buffs away dead skin cells, leaving your skin smoother and promoting a healthy glow.


  • Potential Stretch Mark Reduction:  While evidence is limited, some believe dry brushing may help improve skin elasticity, potentially reducing the appearance of stretch marks.


SO WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW FOR A SAFE DRY SKIN BRUSHING ROUTINE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN.



Choose The Dry Body Brush Right For You


Firstly, You may choose a softer brush if you are new to dry body brushing or have very sensitive skin. When your skin becomes used to it, try to use a firmer brush.


I generally prefer natural bristle brushes with a long handle because they allow me to reach my entire back. I can also easily brush the bottoms of my feet and the backs of my legs.


DRY SKIN BRUSHes


Choosing the right dry body brush is certainly essential for a practical and pleasant dry brushing experience.


Since various brush types are available, we will explain each with specific benefits. As they cater to different preferences and skin types.


Therefore, here’s a guide to help you explore the options. Then, you can Make an informed decision on the ideal dry body brush for you.


Material Of The Bristle


You can opt for natural dry brushes of boar hair or vegetable fibres with gentle but effective exfoliation.


Otherwise, you can choose synthetic bristles that provide cruelty-free options. Their touch is softer, so we recommend them to anyone with sensitive skin.


Alternatively, some brushes combine both natural and synthetic bristles. In summary, These present a balanced exfoliation experience for a broader range of skin types.


Brush Shape And Size


So Here you have two options.


Long-handled brushes are generally better for reaching areas like the back and are very easy to use independently.


On the other hand, Palm-Held brushes allow to target an area with more control. This is evident when you see the effect on your stomach before and after dry brushing. They are also great for travel.



palm held skin brush


Texture


At first, we recommend Soft Brushes for anyone learning how to drybrush or anyone suffering from a skin condition because they offer a milder exfoliation experience.


Instead, Choose medium to firm bristles if you prefer brushing the body with more vigour. These brushes are certainly excellent for increasing blood circulation and promoting lymphatic drainage.


Handle Material


Again, you can find options using more natural materials, such as wood, or more synthetic, such as plastic.


The wooden ones are certainly more durable, while the plastic ones are easier to clean and light.


Additional Features


In addition, you may opt for a brush with massage nodules. You can get a soothing massage effect on the skin when brushing the body with this type of brush.


There are also some brushes with Detachable Heads. It is undoubtedly the perfect choice if you want to have a brush with a long lifespan. Thus, they’re easy to clean and allow for optimal hygiene.



dry brush with massage nodules and essential oils



How To Do Body Brushing


So, are you looking to incorporate dry brushing into your wellness routine? First, Start with gentle, upward strokes in circular motions towards the heart and the lymph nodes.


Because this dry brush technique promotes lymphatic drainage, hence a speedy removal of toxins!


In addition, it provides exfoliation and a smoother appearance of any skin condition while increasing blood flow circulation.


Always avoid open wounds; they may irritate and create an infection.


In short, follow this sequence:


  1. FEET AND LEGS

  2. PALMD AND ARMS

  3. ABDOMEN AND ARMPITS

  4. BACK

  5. FACE


In more detail:


  1. Firstly, I brush the bottoms of my feet and legs with long, smooth strokes, around 10 times each section.

  2. Then, brush the palms of the hands and the arm toward the chest again.

  3. After that, brush the abdomen and armpits in a circular clockwise motion. A gentle approach is essential for specific areas, such as the stomach. Prioritise circular and clockwise motions during stomach dry brushing before moving on to other areas.

  4. Then, Repeat the same process on my back

  5. Finally, use a softer brush to clean the face.


dry skin brushing pattern

The skin should be lightly pinky after brushing, but not red! If so, try not to brush so hard, as it should never hurt!


In addition, Try to be consistent. So aim for a few minutes of dry brushing several times a week. Then, adjust the pressure and duration based on your comfort level.



Contraindications


Dry brushing routines are generally safe for most individuals. It is essential to ask a healthcare professional before trying it out if you suffer from one of the following conditions:


  • Damaged Skin, such as Open wounds and Active infections

  • Sensitive skin

  • Inflammatory skin conditions such Dermatitis, Eczema, Psoriasis

  • Varicose veins & circulatory problems

  • Recent Sunburn

  • High-risk Pregnancy



Boost Its Benefits


To enhance your experience and maximize results, consider incorporating these additional elements:


Harness the Power of Essential Oils:


  • Frankincense oil: Soothe skin irritation and dryness with its anti-inflammatory properties.


  • Grapefruit oil: Revitalize your skin and uplift your mood with its invigorating citrus scent.


  • Peppermint oil: Refresh and invigorate your body while improving circulation and reducing muscle tension.


  • Rosemary oil: Stimulate your skin, promote circulation, and reduce inflammation with this invigorating essential oil.


Pro Tip: Customize your essential oil collection with Cheap Custom Stickers for easy identification and selection.



Indulge in a Lymphatic Drainage Massage:


  • Detox and rejuvenate: Lymphatic drainage massage can effectively detoxify your body and improve your energy levels, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.


  • Targeted facial treatment: For those seeking a more focused approach, our Sculpting Facial massage can enhance your skin's health and appearance, reducing the visibility of lines and promoting a radiant glow.



Enhance Your Skin Care Routine:


  • Post-dry brushing: Apply a nourishing moisturizer like the Beverly Hills Dermal Repair Complex to hydrate and rejuvenate your skin. This luxurious product offers exceptional benefits for improving skin elasticity and radiance.


Combining dry brushing with these complementary techniques can elevate your self-care routine and experience even greater benefits for your skin and overall well-being.



In Summary


In conclusion, mastering the art of dry body brushing offers many benefits, such as increasing circulation. While exfoliating the skin, you also support lymphatic drainage. In addition, you clear the face and potentially reduce cellulite.


Choosing the right brush, considering factors like bristle type and handle material, also enhances the effectiveness of this health practice.


So try to incorporate dry body brushing into your skincare routine and follow a systematic approach! You will get softer skin and improved overall well-being.


Explore additional treatments like lymphatic drainage and facelift massages. These evidently add to dry brushing's benefits for a holistic skincare and well-being experience.



If you enjoyed this post, please email it to a friend or share it on your favourite social media. Thank you!


Finally, we hope you have a better idea of how to dry body brush. If you feel inspired, add these zen habits to your daily life and make your skin glow!


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