Dry brushing is all the rage in the beauty and health world right now. If you don’t already know what it is, it is exactly what it sounds like: simply take a soft, bristled brush and sweep it over your skin in gentle, circular movements. While it may sound strange, it is a technique that has been used for centuries and it is venerated for its natural detoxing benefits. By stimulating the lymphatic system, it ensures that your body is effectively eliminating toxins.
Facial dry brushing
Add facial dry brushing to your skincare routine! Read on for details.
How to brush your face
First, select a natural, soft, bristled brush that feels much like a stiff makeup brush, something much gentler than what you would use for dry body brushing. When you sweep it over your skin, it should feel relaxing, not abrasive. Facial skin is sensitive and should be treated with care.
Then, after gently cleansing your skin, simply work the brush from the collarbone up in circular motions, moving upwards and outwards until you’ve brushed over the entire face. This should take 2-3 minutes.
Facial dry brushing benefits
Facial dry brushing has a number of beauty and health benefits. It will exfoliate your skin gently, helping to unclog pores, reduce pore size, boost your skin’s natural regenerative qualities, reduce the appearance of existing acne marks and fine lines, and give you a healthy, glowing complexion. It is also reported to increase circulation and encourage lymphatic drainage. Plus, it stimulates the nervous system and makes you feel invigorated and refreshed. It may be just what you need to start your morning with energy.
Frequency
Keep in mind that the frequency of facial dry brushing is lower than that of body dry brushing. If you have normal or dry, aging skin, it is recommended that you dry brush your face about 2 times a week. Those with oily skin can benefit from brushing up to 4 times a week, as this practice helps remove skin impurities and prevent breakouts.
Situations when it is contraindicated
Dry brushing is contraindicated if you have inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea or acne. In these cases, brushing can irritate the skin even further and cause more harm than good. Stop if you feel any discomfort or experience a worsening in your condition.
After dry brushing
After you dry brush, don’t forget to moisturize your face as you normally would. Also, rinse out your brush with warm water and soap and let it air dry to remove any residue and bacteria.
Then, look in the mirror, smile, and proudly let your natural beauty shine through!
Dry body brushing
Take what you’ve learned about facial dry brushing, adopt a full-body approach, and reap the health benefits of this practice. With dry body brushing, you can use a stiffer brush than you would for facial dry brushing since the skin is not as sensitive.
How to do it
Start at your feet and work the brush upwards in circular motions towards the heart, sweeping over the legs, stomach, chest, back and arms. Adjust the pressure you apply to the brush depending on the sensitivity of the area you’re brushing over. The skin should look rosy, but back off if you feel any irritation or discomfort. You should feel invigorated, not in pain.
Dry body brushing benefits
The benefits of dry brushing include fresh, smooth, exfoliated skin, prevention of ingrown hairs, a reduction in cellulite and a boost in the natural detoxing capacities of your lymphatic system. While experts point out that there is no scientific evidence confirming that dry brushing detoxes short-term, dry brushing may offer long-term benefits to your lymphatic system, ensuring that your body’s natural detoxing processes are functioning optimally.
Frequency
It is recommended that you body dry brush at least 3 times a week to see results, although some experts recommend brushing every day and even twice a day to reap the full benefits.
When you should do it
It is recommended that you dry brush right before hopping in the shower. Many people prefer doing this in the morning because it gives you a natural boost of energy to start your day.
After dry brushing products
Experts recommend using moisturizing products after dry brushing to restore your skin to its natural balance after removing dead cells. In the shower, make sure to use gentle, moisturizing soap or shower gel, and, after drying your skin, slather on your favorite lotion. Try experimenting with natural moisturizers like coconut oil or cocoa butter.
How to clean the brush
As with facial dry brushing, simply rinse out your brush with warm, soapy water and allow it to air dry.
Simple, relaxing, invigorating, and naturally detoxing!
If you’ve enjoyed this articles, you should read How to get a glowing skin.
