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HOW TO DO DRY BODY BRUSHING & WHY IT'S GREAT FOR YOU

Updated: Apr 18

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 having a shower. Dry brushing is one of the simplest DIY aesthetic 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


REMOVAL OF DEAD SKIN CELLS. AS A RESULT, YOU CAN GET NATURAL SOFTER, LESS DRY SKIN!


2. SUPPORTS & CLEANSES THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM


INCREASING CIRCULATION AND REMOVAL OF TOXINS. AS A RESULT, IT IS A SIMPLE DIY WAY TO BOOST IMMUNE SYSTEM AND REDUCE OF FLUID RETENTION


3. DRY BRUSHING CLEARS YOUR FACE


REMOVAL OF OIL, DIRT AND RESIDUE FROM THE PORES, THUS RESULTING IN A RADIANT SKIN


face complexion


4. BRUSHING THE LEGS MAY HELP TO REDUCE CELLULITE


CONSISTENCY IS KEY BUT DRY BRUSHING MAY CONTRIBUTE TO A SOFTER AND SMOOTHER SKIN, THEREFORE A REDUCTION OF CELLULITE

Indeed, board-certified dermatologists endorse the consistent practice of dry brushing for cellulite reduction. Read this scientific evidence for more info.


5. IMPROVE APPEARANCE OF THE SKIN


IT MAY ALSO IMPROVE STRETCH MARKS


6. GENERALLY SAFE IN PREGNANCY


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


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

  • Exfoliation: It buffs away dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling 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 It allows 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 There are various brush types 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 made 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 on your own.


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 who is 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 a 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



HOW TO DO BODY BRUSHING


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


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 brush the bottoms of my feet and up my legs in long, smooth strokes, around 10 times each section.

  2. Then Start brushing the palms of the hands and again brush up the arm toward the chest.

  3. After that, Brush the abdomen and armpits in an effective way, brushing in a circular clockwise motion. For specific areas, such as the stomach, a gentle approach is essential. 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 do 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


For those with sensitive or very dry skin:


Frankincense oil might be a helpful addition to your dry brushing routine. This essential oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which could potentially soothe any dryness or irritation that occurs after brushing.



BOOST ITS BENEFITS


Book a Lymphatic drainage massage! This type of massage has indeed incredible detox and beauty benefits. So, it’s a great addition to any skincare and wellness program. Because It focuses on detox and improving your energy, leaving you feeling ready to face anything.



Instead, If the face is your main concern, try our Sculpting Facial massage. It improves health and well-being and reduces the appearance of lines, making the skin glow!


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 a 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 the benefits of dry brushing for a holistic skincare and well-being experience.

 

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


At last, We hope you now have a better idea of how to do dry body brushing. If you feel inspired, try adding these zen habits to your daily life and make your skin glow!


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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
monica pineider massage therapist in london

Hi, Thanks for reading our blog! I'm Monica: founder of A to Zen therapies! I love being a massage therapist and   I strive to support you guys feeling looser, stronger & more positive day after day! I am here to share all my best tips to help you get even better results from your massages with maintenance, natural health and wellbeing advice. 

A to Zen therapies  treatments in London

At A to Zen therapies, we offer a wide variety of massage therapy techniques: .

 

Our clinic is close to Monument and London bridge. We are located within the Light Centre Monument, 

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