How & Why to Dry Brush

Have you ever heard of dry brushing? This simple, centuries-old practice involves running a dry, natural-bristle brush over your skin, and it’s making a comeback for good reason.

Beyond the spa-like vibes, dry brushing offers real benefits for your body and mind. From boosting circulation to exfoliating dead skin, it’s a small habit that can pack a big punch.

Are you curious about the science and benefits of dry brushing? Do you want to know more about how to dry brush?

About Dry Brushing

Dry brushing isn’t just a trendy wellness fad – it’s a practical way to support your body’s natural health.

Here’s why it can make a difference:

Smooth, exfoliated, glowing skin

Over time, dead skin cells build up, leaving your skin dull and clogged. Dry brushing sweeps them away, revealing smoother, brighter skin without harsh chemicals.

Supports circulation

The gentle friction stimulates blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your skin and tissues. It’s like a mini workout for your circulatory system.

Supports lymphatic drainage

Your lymphatic system, which helps remove waste and toxins, doesn’t have a pump like your heart. Dry brushing may give it a nudge, encouraging detox and reducing puffiness. Read more here about What You Need to Know About Your Lymphatic System.

Boosts Energy

The brisk brushing motion wakes up your body and senses, making it a perfect morning routine to kickstart your energy.

Stress Relief

There’s something meditative about the rhythmic strokes – it’s a moment of self-care that can calm your mind and rejuvenate your body.

It’s not a cure-all (nothing is!) but a low-effort, high-reward addition to your routine.

So, what’s happening when you swipe that brush across your skin?

What Happens When You Dry Brush

When you dry brush, you’re doing more than just scrubbing the surface. Let’s talk about the science behind it.

Exfoliating: The stiff bristles slough off dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and prepping your skin to absorb moisturizers or oils more effectively.

Stimulating Circulation: The brushing motion gets your blood moving, warming your skin, and giving it that healthy flush. Improved circulation can even help with muscle recovery or just that “I’m alive” feeling we sometimes need to pep up.

Lymphatic Support: By brushing toward your heart, you mimic the natural flow of lymph fluid. If you are detoxing, dealing with inflammation, or working to lose weight, this can be an invaluable support step!

Nerve Tingles: The sensation activates your nervous system in a gentle way, waking you up and potentially easing tension.

How to Dry Brush

Time Goal: 3-5 minutes, 2-3 times a week.

Ready to try it?

Dry brushing is easy, but there’s a method to maximize its benefits.

The Steps:

Step 1: Choose a brush with natural bristles (like boar hair) and a long handle for hard-to-reach spots. It should feel firm but not scratchy.

Step 2: Both your skin and the brush should be dry – hence the name! Do this before a shower for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Start at the soles of your feet and work upward in long, gentle strokes toward your heart. This follows the direction of lymphatic flow.

Step 4: Move to your legs, brushing from ankles to thighs.

Step 5: Then tackle your arms, starting at your hands and moving toward your shoulders.

Step 6: Brush your stomach in circular, clockwise motions (mimicking digestion – right side up across to left side, then down and around).

Step 7: For your back, use the long-handled brush or ask for help if needed.

Step 8: Avoid your face, chest, or any irritated skin. If you do, use light pressure – think petting a tiny kitten, not kneading your sourdough! If you want to go for stimulation on your face and chest, consider a gua sha stone or dermaroller, and follow it up with Rejuvenate Me Serum or Deep Healing Serum.

Step 9: Rinse away the dead skin in the shower, then pat dry and moisturize with Earthley’s Good Night Lotion, Lymphatic Cream, Calendula Rose Body Oil, or other natural oil-based lotion to lock in hydration.

Note: Shake off debris and wash the brush with soap and water weekly to keep it fresh.

Tips you should know:

• Start Slow. If you’re new, try it once a week and build up. Overdoing it can irritate your skin.
• If your skin is red or sore, ease up on pressure or frequency. It should feel invigorating, not painful. Skip areas with cuts, rashes, or sunburn.
• Dry brush in the AM for an energy boost – it’s better than a cup of coffee!
• Stay Consistent. Like all herbal habits, the benefits stack up over time. Stick with it for a month to notice smoother skin and that “glow.”

In Conclusion

Dry brushing isn’t about scraping your skin into perfection – it’s about giving your body a little extra love to support your whole body’s health. Grab a brush and sing along to your favorite song while you brush away some stress. You’ll see how this small step can make a big difference.