Wellness and beauty trends often take over and then fade away, until they resurface in a viral TikTok video. Nevertheless, the trend cycle helps to distinguish what is really worth. A beauty trend that remains popular over the years is the dry brushing.

Dry brushing has become a staple in many beauty professionals’ routines. Besides its potential benefits, it’s a moment of selfcare, something we all need. But what exactly is it, how do you do it, and why does it continue to go viral? Keep reading, I break it all down!

What is dry brushing?

Dry brushing is an Ayurvedic practice that has been practiced for centuries for both beauty and wellness reasons, in which you brush your body with a natural fiber brush. The stiff bristles of the brush are said to stimulate pores and promote lymph flow, helping to naturally detoxify the body and exfoliate the skin.

Benefits of dry cleansing

There aren’t many studies on the benefits of dry brushing, but experts have reported:

Exfoliates the skin

Dry brushing is the perfect method for exfoliating the skin. It leaves the skin soft, elastic and firm. Some recommend it before shaving to avoid irritation.

Selfcare experience

On the busiest of days, dry brushing can help you relax and take care of yourself.

Increases traffic

Dry brushing works as a form of lymphatic massage, helping blood circulation throughout the body. Studies show that improved circulation can benefit the skin.

It helps in the natural detoxification of the body

The lymphatic system, which is located under the skin, acts as the body’s “garbage collector”. It helps to remove toxins, bacteria and excess fluids from the body. Dry brushing is said to help lymph move to the lymph nodes, facilitating the elimination of unnecessary toxins.

How often should you do dry cleansing?

According to experts, you should ideally dry brush every day. However, for most people, 2-3 times a week is enough to see results.

When should you avoid dry cleansing?

If you have sensitive skin, eczema, psoriasis or inflammation, it’s best to avoid dry brushing, as it can irritate your skin. If you have an open wound, then you should definitely skip this area. It is important to consult your doctor if you have a heart or lymphatic system problem before starting dry brushing.

How to choose a dry brush?

The secret is to choose a brush that inspires you to use it regularly. Boar bristles or synthetic alternatives are ideal as they have the right hardness without being too hard. You can choose a brush with or without a handle, depending on your preference.

How to do dry cleansing?

Dry brushing is most effective when done over the entire body. It is recommended to do it before showering to wash away dead skin cells. Experts recommend the morning as the right time of day for dry cleansing, because it helps the body function better and can wake you up.

-Start at the feet and work your way to your heart. Your movements should have moderate pressure so that you don’t hurt, it’s important.

-Don’t rush! Use the brush on each area several times, without overlapping the areas you have already brushed. Spend a little more time on areas that tend to accumulate more germs, such as the inner thighs. Make circular movements on the abdomen and joints (shoulders, elbows, knees, wrists, ankles). Some believe that these movements aid digestion.

-Make long, continuous movements with the arms, as you did with the legs.

– Pay particular attention to the chest area. It needs gentle force and gentle upward movements.

-Finish with a few circular motions around the heart.

What to do after dry brushing?

After dry brushing, take a shower and apply a moisturizer to hydrate your skin, as it can be a bit sensitive and dry.