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What is Skin Brushing?

By Matthew F.
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 10,740
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Skin brushing is a form of skin treatment employing gentle brush strokes across the body. It is a treatment for dry skin and brings out a healthy look in the skin by removing dead layers. Skin brushing is performed with a body brush and massaging strokes. It is a popular as a quick, simple, and effective treatment, and can be easily done anywhere with a simple brush and a few minutes.

Skin brushing is carried out with a body brush with soft, natural bristles, or with a loofah. The loofah, which is a tropical fruit that reaches a sponge-like consistency commonly used as a body scrub, is best used with a handle to reach the inaccessible parts of the back and shoulders. The natural massaging motion of the bristles removes dead skin and eliminates surface toxins from the body.

The brushing is most effectively worked on dry skin, and requires a soft brushing motion to massage the skin. It is best started at the feet and worked upwards, through the legs, buttocks, torso, back, shoulder, neck, and face. Brushing should always be done in a motion towards the heart, complimenting the natural flow of blood, and should be softest on the thinnest layers of skin. Skin brushing on the feet or hands is supported by thick skin, while brushing on the delicate areas of the face and neck should be done gingerly.

As a simple treatment that can take under 10 minutes, and a compliment to health care and massage, skin brushing can treat many imperfections. From cellulite and skin lumps, to dead patches and unclean pores, skin brushing eradicates many of the natural problems that build in and around the skin. Skin brushing should be employed before a shower or bath, so the water stream can wash away the dead or removed skin from the brushing, and is popular in the morning as a means of helping oxygen and skin circulation.

Skin brushing can often produce a natural glow in the skin, as well as stimulating blood and lymph flow. It smoothes skin and encourages the regeneration of skin cells in dead spots. It is most easily done sitting down, as the legs and feet are easier to reach, and most helpful in a warm, moist room. The strokes should be long and rhythmic, as well as consistent and repetitive. The amount of strokes can differ from person to person, though between five and ten is often a safe and effective amount.

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Discussion Comments
By mantra — On Jul 09, 2011

A few weeks ago I decided to undergo a total detox to rid my body of all the stuff that has built up. This was the first time I had been introduced to the idea of dry brushing your skin.

I had read that your skin is your largest elimination organ. So, I wanted to find a way to maximize my skin’s ability to get rid of toxins. Clogged pores are one thing that can inhibit the process. Dry skin brushing can take care of that!

I was also told that dry skin brushing can help strengthen the immune system. I don’t know if that is true, but I do know I feel great.

By andromeda — On Jul 08, 2011

I have been doing skin brushing for several months now. I am a proponent of doing this and believe there are many skin brushing benefits. I personally have seen improvements in the overall appearance and feel of my skin from head to toe.

I make sure to set aside time to do dry skin brushing every day before my shower. My nerve endings always feel rejuvenated. I love how clean my skin feels after skin brushing and a shower.

If you don’t have time to do this every day, try fitting it in once a week. I think people will be surprised at the benefits they see from something as simple as skin brushing. And, it is a good way to take some time to pay attention to your self.

By OhDeDoh — On Jul 07, 2011

I have a problem with really dry skin on my face. Even with a combination of moisturizers and using a humidifier in the house, I just can’t seem to get rid of the flaky skin on my forehead and around my nose.

I have cut out every harsh product and try to use all natural creams and cleansers, but it just isn’t enough. I have been looking in to trying skin brushing. It seems like there are a lot of options for handheld dermabrasion devices, but I just want a good facial brush.

I have ordered one with natural bristles and a wood handle. I can’t wait for it to get here so I can test it out and see how it works.

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