What's Up With Dry Brushing?

Dry brushing is one of those things that a lot of people are talking about— but not so many people seem to know what it is. Dry brushing is the act of using a brush to exfoliate your skin.

It's been around for centuries, and there are plenty of reasons why you should be doing it, too! This blog post will discuss the benefits of dry brushing and how you can get started.

My Experience with Dry Brushing

I'll be the first to say it. When it comes to treating our skin, I'm way behind. Unless I've got a big zit on my face or am dealing with a nasty sunburn, I often ignore the topic completely.

Who wants more stuff to buy and more habits to worry about? And what about all of those weird ingredients I've never heard of? Aren't they still testing this stuff on animals?

Yep, as far as lotions and oils go, for the most part, I ignore rubbing stuff on my skin. I guess, to sum it up, my typical thoughts on "lotions and potions" are that less is indeed more.

However, on the topic of dry brushing, I do know a bit. Although my consistency with the habit has waxed and waned, I've been doing it for years. I find it soothing and relaxing, and I think it's beneficial on several levels.

Isn't Dry Brushing For Women?

Nope! Although women (and women's health sources) often seem to be at the forefront when it comes to identifying and popularizing "new" techniques and treatments, the truth is that humans are humans. If you have skin, you can use dry brushing to help with your overall health.

One More Thing About Dry Brushing

Putting aside the actual health benefits for a moment. Dry brushing as a practice is also valuable under the category of "time doing self-care", a department many men neglect dramatically. Dry brushing as a practice can be an easy way to give yourself a little bit of self-care, which as a general frame of mind can lead to good things.

What The Research Says

Now that we know a bit more about dry brushing, let's take a look at what the research says. Dry brushing has been shown to improve circulation, stimulate the lymphatic system, and help with cellulite.

A 2013 study found that dry body brushing can help improve skin functions like blood circulation, cell turnover, and exfoliation.

How to Dry Brush Your Skin

Let's talk about how to do it. Dry brushing is best done on clean skin that's free of lotions or oils. That means you'll want to do it either in the shower (before applying any products) or outside of the shower.

Start with a natural-bristle brush. A long-handled one makes it easier to reach your back, but any brush will do the trick. Gently brush your skin in a circular motion, working from your feet to your legs and towards your chest. Don't press too hard—you're not scrubbing, you're just lightly exfoliating.

After you've brushed your entire body, rinse off with soap and water (or jump in the shower), then apply a moisturizer. Dry brushing can leave your skin feeling a bit sensitive, so it's important to follow up with some hydration.

How Often Should You Dry Brush?

You can dry brush every day or a few times a week. I like to do it three times a week, but find what works for you.

Who Should Avoid It?

If you have sensitive skin, you may want to avoid dry brushing or do it less often. The same goes for people with eczema or psoriasis. If you have open wounds or are sunburned, wait until your skin has healed.

Do you dry brush your armpits?

I don't recommend it. The skin there is thin and delicate, and you could irritate it.

Can dry brushing help you lose weight?

There's no scientific evidence that dry brushing helps you lose weight. However, the benefits of dry brushing include improved circulation and lymphatic drainage, which can help reduce cellulite. Dry brushing may also help you feel more awake and energized, which could lead to healthier lifestyle choices that result in weight loss.

Does dry brushing help anxiety?

There's no scientific evidence that dry brushing helps with anxiety, but some people find the practice to be relaxing and beneficial for their mental health. Dry brushing can be a form of self-care, and taking care of yourself can help reduce stress and anxiety. If you have anxiety, talk to your doctor or a qualified mental health professional about other ways to manage it.

Give Dry Brushing a Try

If you're looking for a new way to improve your skin or just want to add a relaxing self-care practice to your routine, give dry brushing a try. Dry brushing is easy to do, and the benefits are well worth it. Just be sure to use gentle strokes and avoid sensitive areas.