Dry Skin Brushing

Dry Skin Brushing: How To Do It

This is best accomplished with a natural bristle brush that has a long detachable handle. You will find a selection of these brushes at health food stores and many drugstores.

Begin by standing in a comfortable position. Place one foot on a higher surface, such as the edge of the bathtub or a bed. Start brushing the soles of the feet from toes to heel. Proceed to the top of the foot and move upward: calves, thighs, buttocks. Give extra attention to the skin between knees and waist, going over the cellulite areas several times, alternating circular motions with long sweeping motions. The direction of brushing should always be from the extremities toward the lymph node sites in the groin, abdomen, and armpits. Now do the upper body: palms of hands, backs of hands, and arms--sweeping toward the arm pits. Next, do your shoulders and back (you might need the long handle now), bringing the motions around the torso toward the abdomen. For the front of your torso, an especially sensitive area, gently move downward from chest to abdomen. Finish with gentle circular motions in the abdominal and groin area. Be sure to cover each part of the body a few times with long sweeping strokes and or circular motions.

Brushing should be firm and vigorous but not overly so. You may achieve a rosy glow, but do not brush until your skin is red or irritated. The entire procedure should take only three to five minutes.

Some dry skin brushing pointers are:

1) The best time to brush are morning and before bed. Some people like to follow brushing with a shower, bath, or rubdown with a damp sponge.

2) Depending on the sensitivity of your skin, you may want to start with a softer brush (but not too soft) and later on, after your skin is accustomed to brushing, use a firmer model.

3) You should have your very own brush, just as you have your own toothbrush, reserved for your personal use.

4) Every few weeks or so, you will want to clean your brush with mild soap and water. Just let it dry naturally in the sun or a warm room.

5) Avoid brushing areas of the skin that are irritated or bruised.

6) Do not brush damp or wet skin as this may cause stretching and sagging. Always use a dry brush on dry skin.