There are many options available for improving the look and feel of our skin. The wide array of exfoliating treatments can quickly become confusing. Learning more about how each procedure may benefit you can help you choose the most effective treatment to meet your skincare goals.
What is Dry Brushing?
Although the technique has been around for centuries, many people familiar with western medicine practices may not be familiar with dry brushing. Dry brushing is a form of Ayurvedic medicine (a medical system from India) that has been utilized in various cultures for centuries. Dry brushing works by exfoliating the skin using the coarse skin fibers on the brush to remove dead skin cells and open the pores allowing for more effective elimination of toxins.
What are the Primary Benefits of Dry Brushing?
Although limited scientific research exists surrounding the benefits of dry brushing, hundreds of years of anecdotal evidence support the practice's many benefits.
Improved Toxin Removal
Dry brushing may help improve the function of your lymphatic system allowing for more efficient removal of toxins. Dry brushing helps encourage the release of toxins through sweat. The coarse, dry bristles on the brush stimulate the pores on your body to open, making it easier for your body to sweat. This reduces the number of toxins flowing through your system.
Cellulite Reduction
Many women experience cellulite. The areas of the body most commonly affected by cellulite include the legs, buttocks, and love handles. When cellulite is present, the impacted body areas have a "cottage cheese" or "orange peel" like appearance. Although the cause of cellulite remains unknown, it can be frustrating and challenging to get rid of.
Deep massage has been proven to reduce the visible signs of cellulite. Because dry brushing has similar effects on the body to massage, practitioners strongly believe that dry brushing may also help reduce the appearance of cellulite in problem areas.
Relaxation
As mentioned above, dry brushing provides a similar experience to massage. For most people, getting a massage can be intensely relaxing. When performed by an experienced practitioner, dry brushing can help you feel relaxed and at ease. This effect is improved when dry brushing sessions occur in a quiet, low-lit environment.
Exfoliation
Exfoliating is a process that helps remove dry, dead skin cells from the skin's surface. When these cells remain on the body, it can be difficult for your pores to work effectively. When pores are clogged, it can lead to increased acne, difficulties sweating, ingrown hairs, and other skin-related ailments. Dead skin cells can clog pores and trap dirt deep inside, limiting your skin's ability to excrete oil and get rid of trapped dirt. Exfoliating can help you get rid of dead skin, open up your pores and leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. Like other forms of exfoliation, dry brushing can provide the same results.
Increased Circulation
The process of dry brushing helps stimulate circulation to any area of the body. This process can leave your skin looking and feeling more radiant and smooth. Another benefit to increased circulation is that your skin is often left feeling energized and invigorated. When done properly, the brushing process feels good!
Dry Brushing is Safer Than Scrubbing
When you sit under hot water and scrub your skin, the hot water strips away the fats, proteins, and oils that keep your skin healthy. This can lead to dryness, redness, and itching that even the best creams and moisturizers struggle to calm and heal. Dry brushing allows you to exfoliate your skin when it is dry and less likely to experience damage from the exfoliation process. Exfoliating when your skin is dry instead of under a hot shower helps you get rid of dry skin without robbing your skin of natural oils and moisture.
When properly used on the skin, dry brushing is suitable for most skin types, even sensitive skin. There are certain skin conditions where dry bruising is not recommended. For example, if you have raised bumps, warts, or moles, you should consult your dermatologist or a skin care professional before dry brushing in that area. It is also important not to dry brush damaged skin. This includes scrapes, sunburns, cuts, sores, or open skin. Brushing these areas may further damage your skin but also exposes you to potential infection, irritation or scarring. Also, those with skin conditions such as eczema, rashes, or psoriasis should talk to their dermatologist before beginning a dry brushing routine.
Dry brushing can be a relaxing and stimulating way to exfoliate your skin, leaving it soft and smooth to the touch. If you would like to learn more about dry brushing or are curious about how its benefits may help you improve your skin, contact us at Upkeep Med Spa today to learn more or to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled, professional team members.