Whether your goal is to reduce cellulite, stimulate the lymphatic system, or simply prep your skin for a spray tan, dry brushing is calling your name. Dry brushing is a method of exfoliation that dates all the way back to the Ancient Greeks and Cherokee Indians, and is becoming increasingly popular in our modern times. It is considered more effective than the wet exfoliation you're familiar with because skin plumps up when wet, resulting in less dead skin cells shed. Skin is our largest organ and eliminates over one pound of waste a day; keep reading for the many irrefutable benefits of dry brushing and a step-by-step guide!
Benefits
Dry Brushing helps your skin breathe and opens clogged pores by loosening dead skin cells, it prevents ingrown hairs, firms the skin, and stimulates acupressure points. Celebrities like Miranda Kerr and beauty gurus alike are drawn to dry brushing for the many ways it benefits the lymphatic system. In stimulating the lymphatic system, circulation is improved and toxins are eliminated as are excess fluid, bacteria, viruses, and cell waste. Yes, that means that not only does dry brushing help rid your body of cellulite but it also aids in bloating! Bonus points for soft, glowing skin.
Step by Step
Prepare by ensuring that you are using a natural, not synthetic, glove or brush. Our Spongology by Spongelle Body Wash Infused Anti-Cellulite Glove is made of an all natural soy based sponge, and is the perfect texture while dry for dry brushing!
- On dry skin before bathing, begin by brushing the outermost parts of your limbs, your ankles and hands, upward towards your heart. Work in gentle, long, and smooth strokes.
- You are mimicking the path that the lymphatic fluid flows, so always brush towards your heart! This improvement in blood circulation is why so many people feel extremely refreshed after an energetic session of dry brushing.
- After completing your ankles, move up to the lower legs, then thighs, stomach, arms, and back.
- When dry brushing your stomach, work in counter-clockwise movements. This is the only time you should be brushing in a circular motion.
- When brushing your back, brush from the neck down to the lower back.
- Be especially gentle around the sensitive skin of the chest area, and always avoid brushing over cuts, wounds, or rashes.
- You will pass the brush once over your entire body, excluding the face. The entire process should not take any more than 5 minutes.
- Dry brush 2-3 times a week for softer, clearer skin.
Post Care
Always be sure to dry brush before showering. During your shower, gently cleanse with a Spongelle Body Buffer as usual. After showering, massage your skin with a rich oil to further stimulate the lymphatic system function, all while nourishing the skin for a soft glow. Sesame oil improves circulation and helps removes toxins, jojoba oil is an excellent skin softener, and coconut oil stimulates collagen turnover and protects against sun damage.
Happy Brushing!
