Dry Skin Brushing

The skin is the largest organ in the body and plays a role in the body’s detoxification processes, mainly through excretion of toxins in sweat and sebaceaous fluid. The body also removes unwanted materials from the skin, including dead cells, excess fluids, dead bacteria, metabolic waste products and chemicals absorbed through the skin. Most of these materials are removed via the lymphatic system. Skin brushing can stimulate the lymph system, helping the flow of these materials; from tissues into the lymphatic system, then along the lymph vessels and into the blood stream where they can be dealt with by the liver and kidney.

People have noticed the following benefits from regular skin brushing:

Brighter, healthier skin.
Reduced cellulite.
Removal of dead skin layers.
Improved circulation.
Reduced fluid retention.

Dry skin brushing is simple, quick and the benefits can be seen over a few weeks or even a few days.

1. You will need a dry skin brush!
2. Ideally dry skin brush once a day before showering or bathing.
3. Dry skin brushing should be done on dry skin. Wet skin reduces the effectiveness of the brushing.
4. Normally start from the soles of your feet and work up your legs to the buttocks and stomach, then do the back and abdomen. Next brush up your hands and arms. 
5. It is not normal to brush the face however the scalp and neck can be brushed. A soft brush or flannel may be used for the face.
6. ALWAYS skin brush towards the heart. 
7. You should brush over the same area a few times (3 to 5) and the whole body should only take few minutes. The pressure used should be between gentle and firm, not a vigorous harsh pressure. Use lighter strokes around the breast area and do not brush over the nipples.
8. Wash the brush every few weeks with water and allow to dry. It is best to have a brush for each person

Extra care for cellulite: Although skin brushing may help, consider using your hands or a cellulite massage tool to also massage the cellulite. A massage oil may also be used, this should be massaged into the skin using a moderate pressure with circular movements, once or twice a day. The oil will spread more easily onto damp skin.

Cautions and Contraindications: Avoid damaged areas (e.g. varicose veins, recent burns) and seek advice if you have any medical condition which may affect the suitability of dry skin brushing. Do not dry skin brush over an area with compromised lymphatics (such as lymphoedema). Please note cellulite is unrelated to cellulitis.