5 Benefits of Dry Brushing, the Detoxifying Technique to Try Now

The ancient Ayurvedic practice of dry brushing is an eco-friendly way to exfoliate, and is also believed to increase circulation and boost lymphatic drainage. Regular dry brushing can leave your skin feeling smoother, firmer and more refreshed. Then there are the health benefits that come from increased blood circulation and lymphatic stimulation.

Read on to find out more about this daily detox technique and why you should incorporate into your morning routine, along with oil pulling and tongue scraping. 

What is dry body brushing?

Dry brushing is a special type of skin brushing, involving dry massage with a a coarse brush or mitt on clean, dry skin— no oils or creams required. Dry brushing can help to refresh and smooth skin and may even have detoxifying effect due to the stimulation of the lymphatic system and enhanced  blood circulation.

What are the benefits of dry body brushing?

As with Ayurveda in general, there is little scientific research to support the claim that dry brushing actually removes toxins from the body. Anecdotal evidence, however, says that the coarse brushes on the skin help to open up pores, which can make it easier for the body to sweat, which releases toxins from the lymphatic system and allows it to better fight off infections.

Exfoliates skin: Dry brushing is a great, cost-effective, eco-friendly way to exfoliate your skin—all you need is the brush, no scrubs or creams needed. The coarse brushes help to remove dead skin cells from the body, which is why it is best to do dry brushing before you shower. Regular dry brushing can also help to prevent ingrown hairs, since it helps to declog pores. It's also known to help target blocked pores and keratosis pilaris.

Stimulates lymphatic system: Dry brushing can stimulate the lymphatic system, which is the what your body needs to fight off infections. Lymph is fluid, which works to remove toxins and is also closely tied to blood circulation. When you are sick or exposed to toxins, the lymphatic system can become clogged, which is why your lymph nodes can become swollen when you are under the weather. By dry brushing you can help the body release toxins, with the coarse bristles opening up pores and making it easier for the body to sweat, which releases toxins from the lymphatic system.

Increases circulation and energy: Anything that helps get the blood flowing in the body—like dry brushing—is great for upping the energy. A dry brush first thing in the morning before you shower is a fantastic way to wake up.

Supports immune system: Because dry body brushing encourages blood flow and declog pores, it can help to remove toxins which then helps to strengthen our immune system.

May reduce appearance of cellulite: Dry brushing won't actually remove cellulite but it can help to even out the distribution of fat deposits under the skin. The result? Smoother skin!

How to do dry body brushing

1. Take a brush (or a mitt) and start at your feet, pull it gently but all over your body in upward movements towards the heart. Do feet, legs, mid-section, then arms.
2. Use wide, circular, clockwise motions.
3. Increase pressure where your skin is thicker, and decrease where your skin is more delicate.
4. Once you are finished, stand under a cool shower for a few minutes and then dry off.
5. Massage in a body oil to finish. We love Moon Bath Every Body Grounding Body Oil—part of our new bath range, Bathe. by Bed Threads.

Enjoyed this? Read up on Ayurveda in our beginner's guide to the ancient health philosophy.