Dry Brushing

Dry brushing is a popular spa technique that is an effective way to improve the appearance of your skin, and provide other health benefits as well. It is a great way to remove excess dead skin cells to make your skin look instantly brighter, smoother, and tighter (no gym membership required)! Recent studies have also determined that dry brushing (combined with other aspects of a healthy lifestyle) can also reduce the appearance of cellulite, improve kidney functions, and remove excess toxins from your body.

                    How It Works:

Dry brushing stimulates both the circulation and lymphatic system, which helps to rid the body of excess fluid and toxins, which in turn can also reduce the appearance of cellulite. Another added bonus: I’ve also found dry brushing to be great for exfoliating before using self-tanner.

                   How to Proceed:

• Using a long handled, natural-bristled body brush, dry brush dry, bare skin twice a day before showering.

• Begin with the bottoms of your feet, brushing them completely and vigorously in a circular motion, then move upward to the ankles, calves, thighs, stomach, arms, and hands. Be sure that you are brushing TOWARDS the heart, because this is where the lymphatic system naturally drains (please see the diagrams that follow for proper technique).
• After brushing, shower with warm water to cleanse any leftover dead skin cells that you’ve just exfoliated. At the end of your shower, rinse with water as cold as you can stand it, to aid in additional blood circulation. Dry your skin completely with a towel (for additional exfoliation and circulation benefits).
• Moisturize your skin thoroughly with a good lotion, or oil (such as coconut, olive, or almond).
• Bonus tip: Sipping a cup of hot water with lemon during this process or right afterwards, can also help aid in the digestion process. 
  

     Full Benefits of Dry Brushing:

  • Aids in body circulation

  • Exfoliates the top layer of dead skin to unclog pores

  • Helps to regulate hormones

  • Stimulates the lymphatic system and detoxifies

  • Minimizes the appearance of cellulite

  • Boosts the immune system

  • Improves muscle tone

  • Decreases muscle tension and fluid retention

  • Stimulates nerve cells

  • Improves kidney and liver function

  • Increases energy

  • Stimulates blood flow to the surface of your skin for a healthy glow