Dry skin brushing is a natural skin care technique that consists of dry brushing the body with a natural hair brush. Detoxifying for the body, softening for the skin and toning, dry brushing is an essential beauty gesture. In this article we will see how to do a dry brushing and which brushes to use

Benefits of dry brushing for the skin

- It removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores, leaving the skin softer and smoother.

- Massage is said to help stimulate circulation and is an ally against cellulite. By making circular movements on the areas where cellulite tends to lodge (on the thighs, stomach, buttocks, saddlebags...), you stimulate the lymphatic system. This is called "lymphatic drainage".

"Dry brushing stimulates lymphatic drainage, promoting the passage of nutrients from the blood to the cells while removing toxins. Responsible for about 15% of the body's fluid flow, your lymphatic system carries white blood cells that help the body get rid of toxic substances" as stated by osteopath and pain specialist Vicky Vlachonis in Gwyneth Paltrow "Goop Clean Beauty" book.

- Your moisturizer will be more effective because you will have removed dead cells. 

How to dry brushing?

It only takes 5 to 10 minutes a day to feel the benefits of this body routine. It can be done daily, as a treatment, or twice a week. 

Be careful, it is preferable to be gentle on the brushing to avoid aggressing the skin. At the beginning, the epidermis may not be accustomed to it, so do not press too hard on the brush to get used to it. As you brush, you will find the ideal pressure for your skin.

1. Start with the feet, underneath, on top, then work your way up the legs in small circles to the top of the thighs.

2. Rub your hands and arms up to your armpits, before focusing on your back (a long stick may be helpful, or help) and buttocks.

3. Move to the belly and gently rub yourself, then the chest and neck.

4. Rinse at the end of brushing! Get in the shower and rinse with water

The dry brushing technique in video :

When is the best time to dry brushing?

• In the morning, before starting the day and to wake up your body. In the evening, on the other hand, dry brushing allows you to relax and unwind. In winter, brushing warms up the body, especially when you are cold on your hands and feet.
• When we do a detox, dry brushing allows us to eliminate more waste. By circulating better, the lymph will drain toxins and residues from the body.
• Before a sport activity, we can proceed to this technique to warm up our muscles, and after a training to fight against the muscular tiredness and limit the aches.

Which brush should I use?

We recommend you to use a brush with natural fibres specifically for this purpose. You will find them on our site in ash wood and beech wood with natural bristles. Our brushes are made in France.

> Body massage brushes

This brush will allow you a real comfort of use thanks to its cotton strap.

- Heat-treated ash wood or beech wood from French sustainably managed forests
- Cotton strap
- Natural white bristles
- Made in France

Available on our shop here

> Big body brushes

This brush will allow you a real comfort of use thanks to its adapted shape as well as an excellent grip and an extended contact zone.

- Heat-treated ash wood or beech wood from French sustainably managed forests
- Cotton strap
- Blond horsehair
- Made in France

Available on our shop here

When should I avoid dry brushing?

If your skin is very sensitive, damaged, injured, or sick (eczema, acne, psoriasis, shingles), do not dry brush your body. You can brush very dry (atopic) skin, but not inflamed (red and painful) areas.

Don't brush your belly if you are pregnant. The same goes for a recent scar or stretch mark: avoid brushing. If the legs are affected by varicose veins, avoid brushing as well.

If you have any doubt, consult a health professional.