Dry brushing is a technique derived from Ayurvedic medicine. A true beauty ritual, dry brushing offers many benefits, particularly for the skin and for blood and lymphatic circulation.
What is dry brushing?
Dry brushing allows you toexfoliate the skin. Drybrushers use a brush with stiff bristles and preferably a long handle to reach “difficult” areas, such as the back. In fact, it is thanks to the repeated movements as well as the firmness of the bristles of the brush used that this Ayurvedic technique makes it possible toeliminate the dead skins. In addition, it boosts the skin’s ability to rid itself of toxins.
Dry brushing from a naturopathic perspective
The main elimination routes of the body are called “the emunctories” liverthe lungsand the intestines and the skin. Skin as the largest organ in the human body, it is the emunctory that takes over in case of overload or malfunction of the other “outlets” of the body. In fact, almost a third of all residues and toxins are evacuated via the pores of the skin. Your body breathes through the skin: It absorbsoxygen and expels carbon dioxide that forms in the tissues. Some nutrients are also absorbed through the skin. In addition, the synthesis of vitamin D is also synthesised through the skin. If the pores are clogged with dead cells and debris, the skin’s functions are impaired. As a result, impurities remain in the body, which can contribute to the development of certain degenerative diseases. Dry brushing, with its gentle internal massage, stimulates all the emunctories.
Can I use dry brushing on my sensitive skin?
Yes, you can practice dry brushing even if you have sensitive skin. In fact, for it to be effective, the bristles of the brush used must be quite firm. However, if your skin is extremely sensitive, you can use a flannel for example. However, if your skin hurts or looks irritated or inflamed, do not continue with this dry brushing technique. It is important not to brush over your moles, warts and other lesions. Ask a health professional for advice before using this home care method. We also recommend that you do not dry brush your face. The skin on the face is thinner and often more sensitive than that on the body.
Does dry brushing drain the lymph?
The body has a parallel system to the blood system The lymphatic system. This helps the body to fight infections. In fact, the lymph moves through this ‘circuit’ while being filtered by the lymph nodes. When we are ill, the lymphatic system can become blocked. This is why our lymph nodes are often swollen and tender to the touch. Dry brushing works to help the body rid itself of toxins through sweat. The bristles of the brush used stimulate the pores and open them up. This allows the body to sweat more easily, which optimises the removal of toxins from the lymphatic system.
Dry brushing: Instructions for use
Here are some tips on how to use this technique from Ayurvedic medicine:
- Use a natural bristle brush. Start at the bottom of the body and work your way up in long, smooth, natural strokes.
- Then use circular motions with your brush. On the torso and back (hence the need for a brush with a long enough handle)
- As this process can be a little too violent for sensitive areas such as the abdomen, breasts and neck, lighten the pressure if necessary.
- A few passes over the same area will suffice. If you dry brush the same part of your body too often, you risk irritating your skin.
- Brush your body once a day, before you shower
Sources https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2755111/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30047211/
