Daily dry brushing: the routine that changes everything
Dry brushing is a fairly old beauty technique, more widespread in Asia than in the West. The principle is simple: brush bare, dry skin (without water, cream, or massage oil) with a body brush. It is also called body brushing or lymphatic brushing .
This type of brushing exfoliates the skin and stimulates blood and lymphatic circulation. The benefits of dry brushing are remarkable: skin is softer, smoother, and more toned, and legs feel lighter. It's the ultimate anti-cellulite and anti-water retention technique!
Thanks to its repeated friction movements, it creates an influx of blood that oxygenates the tissues and drains toxins, awakening the functioning mechanisms of a sometimes sluggish lymphatic system.
Both a deep cleansing from within and a skincare beauty ritual, it leaves the skin feeling incredibly soft, rid of the dead cells that clog its surface.
Why bother?
To stimulate lymphatic circulation, of course! The more dynamic the lymph, the more effective its elimination action, and the healthier you are.
Let's take a closer look at how lymph works . This organic fluid is very similar to blood plasma in terms of composition. It surrounds all the cells in our body (except those in the brain and spinal cord). This lymph is transported by vessels, which together form the lymphatic system. Its role? To cleanse the body of infectious agents and, if necessary, trigger the immune system's response. Lymphatic circulation is slower than blood circulation; it depends on our movements and breathing. So, it's a good idea to stimulate it a little with regular brushing!
By brushing dry skin, toxins are directed towards the lymph nodes for elimination. Remember that the skin is an eliminatory organ that still allows the body to remove about a third of its waste .
In short, dry brushing primarily stimulates the lymphatic system, but also the immune system and blood circulation! Not bad, right?
All the benefits of body brushing
Daily dry brushing offers numerous benefits for the body:
- Skin exfoliation and removal of dead cells;
- Drainage of toxins (through lymphatic circulation and the opening of pores);
- Improved tissue oxygenation; Toned and softer skin;
- Reduction of cellulite;
- Promotes the penetration of cosmetics;
- Improvement of skin quality (scars, stretch marks, etc.);
- Improved blood circulation (no more heavy legs!);
- Stimulation of the immune system.
Dry brushing and cellulite, the winning combination!
Body brushing is a natural and inexpensive technique for reducing cellulite. The lymphatic system surrounding our cells sometimes needs a boost to circulate properly. In fact, the more it stagnates, the more it promotes the appearance of cellulite. Thanks to its draining effects, dry brushing is therefore ideal for combating cellulite.
How to practice dry brushing?
Body brushing is suitable for everyone, but especially for those seeking a detoxifying and healthy treatment. It is suitable for both dry and oily skin.
Here are some tips before you get a massage:
- Allow about ten minutes for your body brushing, if possible daily to properly drain the lymph (once or twice a week simply exfoliates the skin);
- Perform brushing on dry skin only ;
- Always make movements from bottom to top , in the direction of drainage and towards the lymph nodes (the main ones are located in the armpits, groin and neck);
- Repeat each movement at least 3 times for effective brushing;
- Don't press too hard on the brush, it's the brush that does all the work of stimulation;
- If possible, position yourself in your shower while you brush your teeth (dead skin cells will fall off).
When should you get a massage, in the morning or in the evening?
Whenever you want! The effects will simply be different:
- in the morning to gently awaken your body,
- in the evening for a relaxing ritual that prepares the body for sleep.
Ideally, you should do dry brushing before your shower . The water will cleanse your skin after this massage, and then you'll just need to moisturize.
Which brush should I choose for dry brushing?
Ideally, you should use a wooden brush with natural bristles, specifically designed for dry brushing. There are several types of brushes, to be chosen according to the area you are massaging:
- For dry brushing of the body , opt for a wider brush with fairly stiff bristles that adapt to all areas of the body (arms, back, legs…).
- For brushing your face , opt for a softer brush with a small head, in order to gently exfoliate the skin without irritating it.
Over time, the bristles of the brush will become softer. If you use your brush daily, it is therefore advisable to change it after one or two years .
In terms of maintenance, it's not necessary to clean your brush after every use. In fact, doing so could damage it and soften the bristles more quickly. You can wash it approximately every two weeks with a little soap and water. Shake the brush to remove as much water as possible, then let it air dry with the bristles facing down.
Are there any contraindications?
In some cases, dry brushing should be avoided: asthma , hyperthyroidism , heart or kidney failure . If you are pregnant , consult your doctor and do not brush your abdomen.
It is also contraindicated in cases of acute infections, malignant tumors or tuberculosis .
If your skin is damaged or irritated (eczema, acne, psoriasis, shingles, varicose veins, large moles, etc.), do not brush these areas. Also avoid dry brushing on recent scars or stretch marks.
All you have to do now is adopt this step in your beauty routine!
Find the essentials for a spring detox on our website:
The Atelier Nubio x Andrée Jardin massage brush : an anti-cellulite and water retention accessory with miraculous effects provided you use it regularly, this easy-to-handle brush refines the skin texture while boosting our lymphatic circulation.
We want pretty legs : a botanical elixir that combines the most powerful plants for blood circulation for light and toned legs.
