What is dry brushing?
Dry brushing is a form of exfoliation completed dry- not in the shower or on wet skin. The act of dry brushing has been around for centuries. Ancient Ayurvedic theories promoted dry brushing as a form of detoxification, as well as ancient Greek and Japanese cultures. Dry brushing has many beneficial properties.
How do I do it?
Stand in an empty bath or shower. Start from lower leg/ feet and work upwards (legs, buttocks, back, arms, stomach, chest). The concept is to work upwards and towards the heart. It should take you no more than 5 minutes to do. Use light sweeping/ circular motions.
If you want to do your chest , neck and face, switch to a smaller and less firm brush as this area tends to be more sensitive.
Your skin may have a slightly pink appearance- this is ok. Its a sign of blood flow. If your skin is red you may be pressing too hard (this can cause irritation. The idea is to use light pressure)
After your dry brushing ritual, shower and bath like normal and apply an eco friendly, organic body cream or body oil. (and drink lots of water to promote detoxification!)
How Often do I do it?
Dry brushing is sufficient 2-3 times a week upwards to 4 times a week. All you need is a dry brush. Merban Band is our recommendation.
Here is a list of benefits to dry brushing!
Exfoliation
Our skin naturally sheds every 28 days (give or take), but as we age, our skin cells need a little extra help being sloughed off. Exfoliation is a great way to remove older skin cells and bring new cells to the surface- resulting in a youthful glow.
2. Softer Smoother skin
Exfoliation removes the outer layer of dead skin cells (stratum corneum). A build of dead skin cells can make the skin look uneven and affect how your body cream works. By exfoliating we are increasing the permeability of product. (This is also another great reason to use a natural, clean body care line as our skin is the biggest organ- absorbing what we apply to it).
3. Increases circulation
Dry brushing increase circulation, promoting optimal blood flow. This helps with transporting nutrients in our body, warming the extremities (especially if you get cold hands and feet), as well as giving your skin a beautiful radiant glow.
4. Energizing and invigorating
You will feel more energized because of the few extra minutes of self care you are giving yourself! You will also feel fresh and it just feels so good.
5. Firms the skin
Dry brushing stimulates the nervous and lymphatic system (relieves stress and detoxifies). Overtime, consistency will improve skin tone, making it appear firmer. (*note: it is important to practice other healthy habits in order to maximize your results).
Contraindications:
* eczema, psoriasis, hyper sensitive skin
* Bruises, open woods, scarring, cuts, scabs, blisters
* varicose veins, veiny areas
* thin skin, delicate areas
With so many benefits to dry brushing, its no wonder people are making this a part of their daily self care ritual!
Give it a try!
Comments