When it comes to low-cost, simple tools that can carry a large benefit in your bodycare, it doesn’t get much simpler than dry brushing. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s essentially what it sounds like. Using a coarse, natural fiber brush, one can brush the skin to exfoliate and stimulate blood flow while supporting the lymphatic system. On top of skin benefits, it’s a relaxing, soothing motion and sensation that can be good for stress reduction and calming the nervous system.
Variations of dry brushing show up in several cultures and have existed for thousands of years. From Ancient Ayurveda to the Ancient Greeks and Romans all the way to Traditional Chinese dry brushing that used the dried fibers of the silk squash. It’s hard to deny its benefits when it’s so clear how well-loved this tool has been for centuries. What keeps bringing people back to it?
Well, most notably and perhaps most obviously, the dry brush helps keep skin soft and smooth through gentle exfoliation and eliminating dead skin cells. If you’re someone who deals with keratosis pilaris (colloquially often called ‘chicken skin’ or ‘strawberry skin’) or ingrown hairs, routine use of a dry brush can help reduce those symptoms as it unclogs pores and removes, dry, flaky skin.
Additionally, similar to the power of gua sha, dry brushing does help to sculpt and tone muscle tissues below the skin’s surface. Circulation is increased, plumping the skin and promoting healing. The lymphatic system is stimulated through the light movement to allow for easier flow and drainage in the body’s natural detoxification process. By unclogging pores, it’s also easier for one’s body to sweat and eliminate toxins in the body.
And while this tool generally shouldn’t be used on the face or any other healing, irritated, or sensitive skin, it can still help eliminate breakouts you may face on your body through those unclogged pores. The dry nature of this process helps clear the skin without the addition of hot water which can inflame the skin and even strip away oils, fats, and proteins that keep our skin healthy. In this way, it can be gentler than other exfoliating methods.
Treat your skin kindly, and it will be kind in return. Dry brushing is a simple, calming method that can be incorporated at home with a minimal cost and time investment, or it’s a great addition to a massage as an additional way to reinvigorate the body and skin. Just make sure you’re always listening to your body, finding the brushing routine that works for you, and not over-exfoliating or applying too much pressure. Light, gentle movements are when you’ll see the best benefits, and it’s a soothing, calming sensation your body deserves.