The Trend of Dry Brushing
There’s a good chance you’ve scrolled past by a wooden brush at a retail store where you might buy your favorite soaps and other skincare. Welcome to the world of dry brushing.
Dry brushing is a practice that has been gaining popularity and with good reason. Dry brushing has many potential benefits, from smoother skin to helping with lymphatic drainage. However, before you run out and buy that brush and go to town on your skin, there are some things you should know. Dry brushing is not intended to be a medicinal treatment and should not be viewed as one. If you have a skin condition, such as psoriasis, you should speak with your doctor before dry brushing. Be sure to avoid brushing over delicate body parts or around an open wound or infection.
In dry brushing, the skin is typically brushed upward toward the heart, starting at the feet, and brushing upwards, at the hands, brush toward the chest. Dry brushing is always something that should be completed before bathing, and of course, don’t forget to moisturize afterwards.
There are true benefits to dry brushing, and then there are many claims. For certain it removes dead skin cells which can help make your skin feel smoother and softer. I have personally dry brushed for years and noticed that my skin is softer. Even if aesthetically there's no life-changing improvement, feeling good about the body you live in is always a goal worth achieving, Dry brushing is a low investment of time and money, so I think I’ll keep it up.
Here are some benefits:
It’s exfoliation that works. The stiff bristles do a solid job at sloughing off dead skin cells. If your skin’s been looking dull or flaky, dry brushing can help smooth things out, similar to a body scrub, but without the mess.
You can improve circulation. You might notice a rosy flush after brushing, especially on areas like your legs or arms. That’s increased blood flow to the surface of your skin, which can feel energizing. While it’s not life-changing, it’s a nice pick-me-up.
Do not dry brush excessively, at a maximum, three times per week
Keep away from delicate zones
Don't brush too hard, a delicate and smooth stroke frequently works best.
Make sure you clean your brush with soap and water at least once a week, and dry it in an open area to prevent mildew
Do not share your brush
Like any aspect of health (or life), it is important to do your own research and go with what works for you.
