Of the zillion creams, gadgets and treatments that have been devised to keep skin smooth, glow-y and cellulite-free, there is one that has really stood the test of time. It’s not a high-tech gizmo but a simple, stiff-bristled dry brush that can be found in literally EVERY beauty editor’s bathroom (including mine!).
Don’t be sceptical: There is some serious science at work here. Dry brushing the skin gets the circulation going and boosts lymphatic flow, thereby flushing out wastes and cellulite deposits.
Plus, the process also boosts metabolism, eliminates dead skin cells, clears out the gunk from pores, and help the body’s natural detoxification process.
So, how to go about dry brushing?
Get a natural bristle brush (I love the Body Detox Brush by Elemis and the Body Polishing Brush by Elemis) and work upwards from the soles of your feet, using long strokes. Keep the pressure gentle but firm (avoid “scrubbing”), so as not to abrade the skin.
Always brush in the direction of the heart as this increases the elimination of toxins.
Dry brush up the sides of your body and the lower back, where toxins can easily collect.
You may want to take a little longer over the cellulite zone and vary your upwards strokes to include circular movements over the outer thighs and buttocks.
Move on to your hands and arms, then dry brush over the abdomen, using circular counter-clockwise strokes. Finish off with the shoulders, neck and breasts.
Then have a shower and follow up with a body lotion while skin is still damp (to best retain the moisture)… personally, I go with coconut oil.
Do this every day for just five minutes and you should notice a difference in skin tone and softness within a few days. And remember: it is best to dry brush skin when it’s dry; wet skin is more sensitive and you run the risk of thread veins.
Have you ever tried dry brushing?
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