I cannot stress enough just how important dry brushing is for our skin. Our skin is our largest organ and often times over looked. It is said… that any sign of toxins in the body will be reflected in our skin and I can tell you for fact this is true. I have had a few months of non-stop travel, bad eating, alcohol, dehydration, sun exposure and my skin is suffering badly. So I have started back to my routine of hydrating, healthy eating, no alcohol and dry brushing. Just during our photo shoot for this article, I could tell a vast difference in my skin after using a dry loofa on my arms for 5 minutes, and after I dry brush my full body consistently, I can actually brush away lumps and bumps. I was blessed genetically to not suffer with cellulite growing up, but as I have aged it has quietly crept in. I found the dry brushing my best weapon in the defense in this major annoyance.
So let’s dig a little deeper. Let’s talk skin, I will go through the benefits and then I’ll explain just exactly how dry brushing should be done to get optimal results.
Our skin is a complex system made up of nerves, glands and cell layers that when healthy, acts as a buffer to protect our bodies from chemicals and extreme temperatures. It produces antibacterial substances to help protect us from infection and enables our bodies to produce vitamin D when exposed to the sun. We have densely packed nerves that act like messengers to the brain as well as supporting detoxification by sweating. If our skin is over run with dead skin cells and toxins… we will not be able to eliminate wastes. This where dry brushing becomes key to health… not only does it eliminate the dead cells, but it activates waste removal by stimulating our lymph nodes.
#1 Benefit (And One I Swear By) It Can Dramatically Reduce the Appearance of Cellulite Naturally
We cannot control the way our bodies react to fat and the way it stores it. Cellulite is one of the biggest skin problems women face. Cellulite is most usually found on the thighs, hips, buttocks, arms and stomach. Dry brushing can help move stubborn lumps, bumps and the appearance of dimpled skin. Dry brushing is not a permanent fix… but can dramatically reduce the appearance if done at least 3 times a week. I like to do at least 15 minutes per leg and while I know this is a major time commitment… if you are reading or watching television, throw on a pair of short shorts and get brushing. I promise you will thank me!
#2 Benefit ~ Exfoliation
This amazing benefit can actually help with anti-aging by sloughing off dead skin cells which in turn allows skin to soak up moisturizer and allows skin renewal. As the old, dull cells are removed… healthy new ones are able to form. Skin will be brighter and more vibrant. Exfoliation can also alleviate uneven skin texture allowing smoother and softer skin to be revealed.
#3 Benefit ~ Detoxification
Our lymphatic system runs through our entire body and it’s job is to help rid our bodies of toxins and waste. The lymph system works by collecting waste from our tissues and organs moving it through the blood system. A healthy lymphatic system is crucial to maintaining good health. If it’s sluggish and not functioning properly, toxins can accumulate leading to congestion and illness. By dry brushing, we are helping speed up the lymph system allowing toxins to be eliminated quicker, thus improving our immune system, preventing inflammation and optimizing our health.
#4 Benefit ~ Improved Circulation
Dry brushing increases circulation and promotes blood flow which supports whole body health by promoting the flow of oxygen rich blood. Poor circulation can cause blotchiness, dark spots and slow scar healing. Regular dry brushing will help promote better skin texture and a more even skin tone.
#5 Benefit ~ Improved Digestion
As our largest organ, skin influences the health of our entire body. Our skin is the first line of defense against bacteria entering our bodies. Blocking bacteria from entering the body early on helps keep our digestive system from having to work harder. Clear clean skin equals a better working digestive system.
What Type of Brush and How to Dry Brush
I like to use a very soft brush. A hard bristled brush can create micro cuts in the skin which can allow bacteria and germs to get into our systems. I use a hand held brush for my legs, arms and stomach and a long handled brush for my back and hard to reach places. You can pick up a dry brush here… or at any drugstore, health food store or even Amazon. They are inexpensive and one of the best things we can do for ourselves!
I like to think of dry brushing like a butterfly kiss… think short gentle flicks that help engage the lymph system. I start at my toes and always work my way up with strokes always going towards my heart. We are trying to push that blood to the heart at all times. Please study our brush stroke chart…. and let’s get brushing! Please give this gift of health to yourself and never, ever share your brush with others. We don’t want other dirty skin cells mingling with ours…
