In the Know With Anna-Maria Nutritionist, Herbalist & Doula

Dry Skin Brushing

Written by Anna-Maria Boelskov | Jun 23, 2016 1:42:00 AM

The Dry Skin Brush

This is my favourite tool, for beautiful skin and a healthier body. Great to start this in spring, so you feel ready to hit the beach with confidence, but more importantly worth doing all year round for its health benefits.I often recommend dry skin brushing to my patients, as a very easy and helpful tool to support the body's natural detoxification process.

 

What is dry skin brushing?

Dry skin brushing manually support your lymphatic system in removing toxins for elimination and help exfoliate your skin. The skin is the body's largest organ and many toxins are cleansed through the skin every day. If the body is unable to release toxins through the skin and the lymphatic system we can get rashes, acne, hives, itchy skin and even eczema and psoriasis... Here's how to do it correctly.

How to dry brush your skin

Use a natural brush specially made for this purpose. You can purchase it here.

Start brushing your skin before your morning shower, it is a good idea to shower afterward to wash off the dead skin cells.

Start from the bottom of you feet and work up your legs to your groin. Go gentle, if at all, on your tummy and breast area, then start again from the feet this time up the back of your legs. Repeat these two steps 10-15 times. Then start from the palms of your hands and move to the top of you hands, arms and all the way to your armpits.

Use a pressure that is firm and leaves your skin a little pink, but don't do it too firm so it is uncomfortable and leaves the skin bright red.

Avoid using any soap or shower gels when you wash. A soft wash cloth if sufficient to clean your skin in the shower. If you use soaps or gels on your skin you can remove the natural oils of the skin and it may cause your body to produce less oils so you feel dry and need more lotion. The best you can do is to avoid soap and if you need moisture after your shower use Jojoba oil. Jojoba oil has the same PH value as the skin and does not interfere with the natural oil production of the skin.

• Repeat daily and you will see great results within a few weeks!

The Benefits

  • Stimulates your lymphatic system
  • Improves your immune system
  • Naturally exfoliates and removes dry skin
  • Reduces cellulite
  • Improves your skin tone and softness
  • Supports weight loss and detoxification
  • Reduce swelling and fluid retention in pregnancy

Dry skin brushing can be done by almost everyone even in pregnancy. The benefits will be noticeable within a few weeks if you do it daily for a minimum of 5 minutes.

I have personally seen and tried the benefits. When I do it daily I definitely have smoother skin and it even glows a little, no kidding!

Note that skin brushing is not recommend if you have a severe case of eczema, broken skin or other forms of skin condition with open oozing skin.