Health week; Dry Brushing for the skin

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I had only heard of dry brushing recently and had known straight away I wanted to start trying it myself. The idea is that brushing your skin when it's dry with a soft bristled brush helps detoxify it, remove dead skin cells, improves circulation - and is even said to have a calming effect! I had also heard it was great for stopping and minimising cellulite, so naturally, went to the shops straight away to get my own brush to begin. The results? I have found after just a few days little differences - especially the feel of it. Don't take my advice though - here are some of the benefits of dry brushing from the experts, and how to do it properly should you want to try it yourself (which I can't recommend highly enough).

Benefits of Dry Brushing

• removes cellulite (to remove cellulite stick at it daily for months)
• cleanses the lymphatic system
• removes dead skin layers
• strengthens the immune system
• stimulates the hormones and oil-producing glands
• tightens the skin, preventing premature ageing
• tones the muscles
• stimulates circulation
• improves the function of the nervous system
• helps digestion
• fat deposits are better distributed
• unplugs the pores in the skin
• increases the skin’s ability to absorb nutrients
• increases cell renewal

How To...Dry Brush your skin

To dry brush the skin, you will need a soft, natural fibre brush with a long handle, so that you are able to reach all areas of your body. A loofah sponge or rough towel can also be used. Do not use synthetic fibre brushes as these may be too rough for your skin.

When dry brushing, always do so before bathing or showering. You can brush from head to toe or toe to head, as long as the entire body is brushed. Use long, sweeping strokes that start from the bottom of your feet upwards, from the hands towards the shoulders, and upward on the torso in order to help lymph fluid drain back towards the heart. Be aware that stroking away from the heart puts extra pressure on the valves within the veins and lymph vessels and can cause ruptured vessels and varicose veins.

When brushing, use lighter pressure in areas where the skin is thinner and heavier pressure where it is thicker. Perform the brushing once a day, preferably first thing in the morning. A thorough brushing should take about 15 minutes to complete but any amount of time you spend on it will be of benefit. If you are feeling unwell, you can brush twice a day. Dry brush areas of cellulite for 5 to 10 minutes twice a day to help it dissolve. To see results, you will need to do so consistently for at least five months.

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So what are you waiting for? You can pick up your own brush from your local beauty store for cheap. I am getting in the habit of doing it before my morning shower each day - but of course with anything, find what works for you and then stick at it. Happy brushing!