Dry brushing is the latest trend to take over social media. But the popular skincare technique is nothing new, and has been around for quite some time.
What is it?
Dry brushing is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries to improve circulation and exfoliate the skin. It involves running a natural-bristle brush across the skin in long, sweeping strokes, starting from the feet or hands before moving up towards the heart.
The ancient Egyptians were believed to have practiced dry brushing. They performed the technique by exfoliating with the natural enzymes in sour milk or wine to achieve baby soft skin.
And in India, Garshana is an Ayurvedic practice that involves exfoliating the skin with gloves made of raw silk or linen.
When performed regularly, just a few minutes of dry brushing each day is said to promote softer skin and better overall health.
What are the Benefits of Dry Brushing?
There are so many health benefits to the ancient skincare technique. For example, dry brushing is a simple and efficient way to promote good health and keep your skin looking its best. Not only does it exfoliate dead skin cells from the surface of the body, but it also helps to stimulate blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.
In addition, the technique can help reduce the appearance of cellulite, boost immunity, and even reduce stress.
Inside the Skincare Trend Taking Social Media by Storm
Sure, dry brushing is trending on social media. But men and women have been practice the ancient techniques for thousands of years. This is because there are so many benefits to it. And as a result, more and more people are eager to try it for themselves. Take a look at how to practice dry brushing, PLUS the all of the skincare essentials you will need for the job:
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1.
Pick a Proper Brush
Zen Me “Dry Brush”
When it comes to dry brushing, selecting the best brush is important. For optimal exfoliation and lymphatic stimulation, look for a natural fiber bristle brush with moderately stiff bristles that are neither too hard nor too soft on the skin.
A good size handle will provide comfort and stability while brushing, allowing you to cover large areas of the body quickly and effectively. For an extra luxe experience, you can even choose a brush with an ergonomic design for ease of use. With the right brush in hand, you’ll be ready to embark on your dry brushing journey!
Our pick: This Zen Me “Dry Brush” that includes either boar or vegan bristles.
2.
Work Your Way Up
Dry brushing your skin can help you look and feel like a million bucks. To get started, begin at the feet and use small circular motions to brush up towards your body.
You should use long strokes that cover large sections of skin in one motion. Make sure not to press too hard – you want to be gentle but firm. You can dry brush your skin for up to 10 minutes, making sure to cover your entire body. You should also try to avoid brushing any areas that are sensitive or have open wounds as this can cause irritation.
3.
Hop in the Shower
Remember to follow up your dry brushing sesh with a shower. Showering after dry brushing helps remove any gross dead skin and dirt that has been sloughed off during the process. This allows you to enjoy even more of the rewards of exfoliation.
Hopping in the shower after dry brushing can also help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. Moreover, it can further stimulate circulation and help open up pores for better absorption of your moisturizer afterward.
So don’t forget to rinse off after dry brushing your skin! It’s a key part of getting the most out of this gentle exfoliation treatment.
4.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize
“Vaseline Intensive Care Soothing Hydration“
“Vaseline Intensive Care Calm Healing”
After exiting the shower, make sure to nourish your skin with a light moisturizer. This will help lock in the hydration you just gave your skin and keep it healthy.
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Try the new Vaseline Intensive Care Lotions to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Providing 48 hours of moisture, the new redeveloped formulas can help prevent dryness no matter what the day throws at you.
Each lotion contains a powerful mix of ingredients, including patent-pending ultra-hydrating lipids, micro-droplets of Vaseline Original Healing Jelly, and a blend of humectants designed to prevent dry skin and increase moisture by up to 90 percent!
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Try the “Vaseline Intensive Care Soothing Hydration” lotion, made with hydrating aloe vera for maximum moisture. Or for a more restorative moisturizer, the “Vaseline Intensive Care Calm Healing” lotion contains lavender extract for a soothing, salon-quality experience.
5.
Protect Your Skin
This sunscreen from Black Girl Sunscreen
Dry brushing can leave your skin looking and feeling its best. But to keep it that way, it’s also important to maintain your new softer, more supple skin.
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To do this, try applying natural oils like coconut or olive oil to further protect your skin. For example, this “Organic Coconut Oil” from Viva Naturals is cold-pressed and unrefined to give you the best in natural skincare.
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For extra protection against environmental stressors, use a sunscreen when going outdoors. This sunscreen from Black Girl Sunscreen is perfect for protecting your skin without leaving behind a dreaded gray cast.
Taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be complicated— just make sure you focus on hydrating and protecting it post-dry brushing! And while you’re at it, why not take a moment to enjoy the softness and smoothness that comes with dry brushing? You deserve it!