Is dry brushing good for your skin?

I often get overwhelmed with all the new beauty trends that keep evolving as we continue to see new products being introduced on the market. Therefore, I love coming back to the basics of dry brushing. A trend that has truly withstood the test of time. Its alleged capacity to exfoliate, facilitate lymphatic drainage, and diminish the appearance of cellulite has garnered it a loyal following, including celebrities like Miranda Kerr and Gwyneth Paltrow.
But is dry brushing truly beneficial? Here we give you the insights.

The Ionic Copper Dry Brush by slō.

What Exactly is Dry Brushing?
Dry brushing is a method of physical exfoliation that entails running a stiff-bristled brush across the skin's surface. As the name implies, it's performed on dry skin with a dry brush. The coarse bristles, whether synthetic or natural, are believed to enhance skin texture and promote blood circulation.

A Glimpse into Its Origins
Originally known as "garshana," this practice traces its roots back to Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian system that emphasizes a holistic approach to physical and mental well-being.

Dry Brushing Benefits
The primary benefit of dry brushing is that it helps stimulate the lymphatic system, and will provide support for proper function of the lymphatic system when done consistently over time. Other benefits lie in the dry brushings exfoliating properties, as the stiff bristles effectively remove dry, flaky skin cells from the skin's outer layers. This enhances cellular turnover and aids in unclogging pores, which can become congested with dead skin and excess sebum, potentially leading to blemishes, blackheads, and ingrown hairs. Additionally, exfoliating the body facilitates better absorption of topical treatments, as it eliminates the barrier of dead skin cells.
Dry brushing also provides a temporary skin glow by stimulating blood flow. The massage-like action boosts short-term blood circulation, similar to the effects of a massage.

Cellulite Appearance
Dry brushing improves skin's smoothness and plumpness through increased blood flow. You might already start to notice a difference after the first time using a dry brush, but for the most dramatic results, you need to give it a few weeks.

Different Skin Types and Dry Brushing
Dry brushing is not recommended for individuals with sensitive skin, particularly those with conditions such as eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, or cystic body acne. Rubbing a coarse-bristled brush over already irritated skin may exacerbate existing issues and cause discomfort.
However, dry brushing may benefit the texture and tone of areas prone to blackheads, such as the back and chest. By sloughing away plugs of sebum that congest pores, dry brushing can enhance the appearance of pores and overall skin texture.

How to Dry Brush
Start with completely dry skin, before a bath or shower, and always brush in long rhythmic strokes to move fluid toward your lymph nodes. Start at your arms, then chest, then waist & stomach and finishing of at your legs. Beginners should initiate dry brushing with a once-weekly practice to allow the skin to acclimate to the sensation, gradually increasing the frequency. It's best to dry brush before showering to wash away dislodged skin cells, followed by moisturizing to nourish the skin. Opt for fragrance-free and gentle formulas on freshly brushed skin to prevent irritation.

Addressing Sensitivity or Irritation
If you experience redness or sensitivity, discontinue dry brushing immediately. To alleviate irritation, apply a fragrance-free moisturizer containing hydrating ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil.

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