EMBRACE DRY BRUSHING IN THE WINTER

By Sarah Siri Blejc, MPharm

Caring for our skin during the winter is essential. How about adding this short yet effective spa treatment to your daily or weekly routine? However, before you start, let's explore its benefits and what you must pay attention to to perform it correctly.

Benefits of dry brushing:  

Dry brushing is an Ayurvedic ritual focusing on brushing your body with a bristled tool. It has many soothing effects, such as:

  • Exfoliating the skin: it works as an effective physical exfoliator, removing dead skin cells on the surface to reveal smoother, softer skin. 

  • Rejuvenating and detox-effect: it may stimulate the lymphatic system and promote local circulation to refresh and invigorate your skin. 

  • Self-care: it encourages you to take a moment, to focus on and connect with your body.

To gain the best out of it, follow the next steps: 

  • Frequency: You can dry brush your skin as often as every day or once every three days, depending on what suits you. 

  • When: Incorporate this ritual in the morning or the evening before the shower – I prefer it in the morning as it energizes and prepares me for the day ahead. 

  • Start at the feet and move upward. Brush arms and legs with a gentle pressure towards the heart. The strokes should be soft, you should avoid irritating your skin. You always want to follow the circulatory system. The point of dry brushing is to encourage lymph toward your upper torso and chest. 

  • Finish with the neck and decolletage extra gently, as it's more delicate skin. Start at the jawline and move down your chest. Finish by going over your heart in a circular motion to end your routine. 

  • Shower afterward to remove the dead skin cells that came loose during brushing. Be mindful of choosing a gentle cleanser or only water and skip the scrubs. 

  • Afterward, hydration is the key: apply a moisturizer while your skin is damp. 

The Takeaway: 

As with all the new habits you are willing to apply to your lifestyle, consistency is the key. So, make it a routine and try to stick to it. Be mindful that you follow the recommendations to avoid potential damage and also apply other beneficial habits such as good nutrition, workout, and mindfulness to your lifestyle to make the most out of it.