I’m a huge fan of detoxing. After a period of overindulgence, there’s something wonderful about cleansing all of the toxins from your system. Whilst it’s true that your body naturally detoxes itself, I’m a huge advocate for products that safely speed up the process. Enter: dry brushing. 

Dry brushing is a way to detox your body without swallowing pills or drinking funny-tasting teas. In fact, it’s a practice that has been used for thousands of years across many different cultures. Dry brushing features in both Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Whether you’re looking to give your skin a boost, improve your overall health or simply add another step to your self-care routine, it’s worth giving dry brushing a try – and here’s why. 

The Origins of Dry Brushing

Dry brushing is believed to have originated in India over 5000 years ago although, as mentioned, many ancient cultures have also adopted the practice. People used this practice to prepare for hot baths and cleansing rituals, as well as to boost circulation. Improving circulation and lymphatic drainage is very important in many ancient medicines, and it also forms the basis of many of today’s beauty and self-care rituals. Perhaps that’s why dry brushing is now favored among celebrity estheticians and luxury wellness gurus. 

The Health Benefits of Dry Brushing

Dry brushing offers a range of holistic and cosmetic benefits. 

One of the most often cited advantages of dry brushing is that it improves circulation and lymphatic drainage. Your lymphatic drainage system works to remove waste and toxins from your body, which is why it’s such a popular detoxifying ritual. This can lead to more energy, fewer aches and pains, and reduced inflammation. 

On top of this, this practice gently exfoliates the skin all over your body. This leads to brighter, softer and more even skin. It also means that your favorite body creams and lotions will be even more effective.

Dry brushing is also believed to help improve the appearance of cellulite. It does this in two ways. Firstly, dry brushing immediately boosts blood flow to the area which can temporarily make your skin look firmer and less dimpled. Secondly, it stimulates collagen production which thickens and strengthens the skin. Over time, this leads to a smoother and more toned look, and therefore reduces the appearance of cellulite.

How to Perform Dry Brushing 

Step One

First, choose the right type of dry brush. It’s best to choose one made from natural materials, such as sisal, boar or cactus. Make sure that the brush is soft enough not to scratch you or leave your skin red and irritated. See the next section of this post for some product choices. 

Step Two (Optional)

If you’d like to add some fragrance to make this a true self-care ritual, then I recommend adding a few drops of nourishing jojoba oil and your favorite luxury essential oil.

Step Three 

Undress, and begin brushing your body in upward strokes. It’s best to start at your feet and work your way up. Be firm but not too hard.

Step Four 

Use a second brush and gently dry brush your face and neck.

Step Five 

Take a shower to rinse away the newly exfoliate dead skin cells. Follow up with your favorite luxury body cream or oil; right now, I love Argentum Apothecary’s La Lotion Infinie Body Creme.

The Best Dry Brushes 

The following are high quality brushes which will gently exfoliate your skin. Be sure to purchase a separate brush for the delicate skin on your face and neck. I especially love Dr. Barbara Sturm’s The Body Brush in medium!

Body 

Face 

Is Dry Brushing Right for Me?

Dry brushing is a great, natural way to stimulate circulation, improve your skin and care for your overall wellbeing. It’s an effective way to detox your body and I find that it always leaves me feeling re-energized. However, if your main concern is skin-tightening then cosmetic treatments such as laser resurfacing, radiofrequency or ultherapy might better suit your needs. 

For more on wellness, check out my guide to the best luxury retreats in the USA or these amazing detoxifying face masks.