The Benefits of Dry Brushing: Does It Actually Improve Circulation & Lymphatic Health?

The dry brushing trend has caught up around the world. You may have heard how it improves circulation, promotes lymphatic drainage, and makes your skin healthy. But does it actually work? Read further to know more.

Dry brushing is not new and has been practiced for centuries. Its roots are in Ayurvedic medicine and various traditional wellness routines. Today, due to its exfoliating properties, it has become a common addition to self-care regimens.

This article explains dry brushing, its benefits, myths, and effective techniques. We will also learn who can benefit the most and who must avoid dry brushing.

Read More: 15 Best Ayurvedic Treatments For Glowing Skin – Get The Glow On!

What Is Dry Brushing?

Dry brushing involves using a stiff-bristled brush on dry skin in a specific pattern, usually before a shower. It is believed to exfoliate the skin and promote lymphatic movement.

Modern wellness and beauty patrons include dry brushing in their skincare routine to have smoother skin and get a natural detox effect. While many believe dry brushing to be beneficial, let’s take a closer look at what science says.

Read More: 15 Best Ayurvedic Treatments For Glowing Skin – Get The Glow On!

Potential Benefits of Dry Brushing

To know whether you must include dry brushing in your routine, let us first understand its benefits.

1. Improves Circulation:

One of the major benefits of dry brushing is that it helps improve blood flow. The mechanical action of brushing promotes blood flow to the skin’s surface, leading to a temporary rosy glow. Increased circulation can help overall cardiovascular health, but research suggests that the effects of dry brushing are mostly superficial and temporary. It is also true that dry brushing and certain massage techniques can improve local circulation, though specific research, especially on dry brushing, is limited.

2. Supports Lymphatic Drainage:

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in removing toxins and excessive fluids from the body. Dry brushing is believed to encourage lymphatic drainage by stimulating lymph flow beneath the skin. While there is evidence that manual lymphatic drainage (a technique used in physical therapy) can assist in fluid movement, studies do not directly support dry brushing as a reliable method for detoxification.

3. Exfoliates Dead Skin Cells:

Dry brushing is known to remove the dead skin cells from the skin. This physically exfoliates the skin, making it softer and smoother, while removing hair and unclogging pores.  This form of physical exfoliation can lead to softer, smoother skin and may help prevent clogged pores and ingrown hairs. Dermatologists agree that exfoliation helps maintain skin health, though they caution against over-brushing, which can lead to irritation and micro-tears in the skin barrier.

4. Boosts Energy:

Many people who practice dry brushing report feeling more energized afterward. This sensation is likely due to increased blood flow and nerve stimulation. Like a cold shower or a vigorous rubdown, dry brushing can refresh your senses and promote alertness.

5. Reduce Cellulite Appearance:

One of the contentious arguments around dry brushing is that it can diminish cellulite. Even though some users find that dry brushing creates a short-term plumping effect that reduces the appearance of cellulite, no scientific data exists to suggest that dry brushing removes cellulite in the long term. Dermatologists attest that cellulite is due to fat deposits beneath the skin and cannot be eliminated with brushing. Yet a balanced diet, exercise, and hydration also help improve the skin texture.

Read More: 8 Overnight Beauty Hacks for Glowing Skin by Morning.

How to Dry Brush Effectively

If you wish to start dry brushing, we will help you find the right way to do so. To get the most out of dry brushing, follow these steps:

1. Choose the Right Brush: To maximize the benefits of dry brushing, consider opting for a natural bristle brush with a long handle that helps reach all areas of your body. If you have sensitive skin, go for a softer brush.
2. Best Time to Dry Brush:The best time to dry brush is before you shower, mostly in the morning. This will help you feel energized at the start of the day.
3. Use the Correct Technique:
   • Start at your feet and work upward in long, sweeping motions toward your heart.
   • Next, use circular motions on the abdomen and joints.
   • To get the best results, apply gentle pressure. The pressure should be enough to stimulate the skin without irritating it.
4. After Brushing:Dry brushing exfoliates the skin, and it is essential to remove the dead skin cells by taking a shower. After the shower, do not forget to apply a moisturizer or body oil to keep your skin hydrated.

Wish to invest in a dry brush? Check out our top pick here!

Dry Brushing Myths vs. Facts: What Science Says

As we mentioned, there are debates around the technique of dry brushing. In this section, we debunk some dry brushing myths.

• Detox Claims:Dry brushing exfoliates the skin but does not detoxify the body. The idea that dry brushing detoxifies the body is a myth. The liver and kidneys handle toxin elimination, not the skin.
• Lymphatic Support:While lymphatic drainage techniques exist, dry brushing alone is not proven to significantly enhance lymphatic function.
• Cellulite Reduction:Though it reduces cellulite, it can be temporary. This happens due to increased blood flow, and not actual fat loss.

Read More: Demystifying Detox: Debunking Common Myths and Effective Cleansing Methods.

Who Should & Shouldn’t Try Dry Brushing

Who Can Try It:

• People are looking for gentle exfoliation to improve their skin texture.
• Those who enjoy the sensory experience of brushing.

Who Should Avoid It:

• People with sensitive or eczema-prone skin must avoid dry brushing. Also, individuals with skin conditions such as psoriasis or open wounds must avoid dry brushing.
• People with medical conditions who use topical medications like steroid creams must avoid dry brushing.

Final Thoughts

Dry brushing can work like magic in exfoliating your skin, and temporarily boost blood flow. However, some of the claims lack scientific evidence, making dry brushing a topic of debate among beauty enthusiasts. Yet, many people enjoy it and have made it a part of their skincare routine.

If you try dry brushing, do so with realistic expectations and follow proper techniques for the best results.

We would love to know if you wish to include dry brushing in your routine. Let us know your experience in the comments below!