We all have our non-negotiables. Brushing our teeth, running a brush through our hair, but how often do we show our body the same daily love? Aka: dry brushing.
This age-old wellness ritual has been championed by the likes of Miranda Kerr and Gwyneth Paltrow, and it’s having a major moment once again. Simple, speedy and surprisingly satisfying, dry brushing is the beauty editor-approved step that’s quietly transforming body care routines everywhere. Curious? Here’s everything you need to know, from the benefits to exactly how to do it.
What is Dry Brushing?
Dry brushing is exactly what it sounds like. Using a firm, natural-bristle brush to massage the skin in long, upward strokes while it’s still dry. Often done before showering, this quick ritual not only boosts circulation and encourages lymphatic drainage, but also gently exfoliates, helping to sweep away dead skin cells so your body products can absorb better. Think of it as a glow-boosting prep step your skin didn’t know it needed.
How to dry brush the body?
For best results, dry brushing is best done first thing in the morning before your shower and ideally on completely dry skin. Using a natural-bristle brush and start at your ankles and use long, upward strokes towards the heart. The key is to go gently at first —this isn’t meant to be harsh—and gradually increase pressure as your skin gets used to the sensation.
Avoid the face, and instead focus on areas like the legs, arms, and particularly the underarms and inner thighs, both of which house important lymph nodes. These zones often need a little extra attention to support detoxification and circulation. Around the stomach, switch to small anticlockwise circles to follow the natural direction of digestion.
Continue brushing up towards the chest, across the shoulders and gently down the back. Once you’re done, hop into the shower and, if you can handle it, alternate between hot and cold water to really get your circulation going. After towel drying, finish with a nourishing body oil look for something detoxifying or invigorating and let it soak in before getting dressed. Once you get into the rhythm, it’s the kind of ritual you won’t want to skip.
What are the benefits of dry brushing?
Beyond being strangely satisfying, dry brushing offers a whole host of beauty and wellness perks. Here’s why it’s worth carving out a few extra minutes in the morning:
- Boosts Circulation: That invigorating tingle you feel post-brush? It’s your blood flow getting a gentle wake-up call, great for energy levels and skin vitality.
- Supports Lymphatic Drainage: By stimulating the lymphatic system, dry brushing helps move toxins through and out of the body more efficiently.
- Reduces Water Retention & Puffiness: Regular brushing can help minimise bloating and puffiness, particularly around areas like the thighs and underarms.
- Smooths Skin Texture: The exfoliation aspect can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite over time, thanks to improved tone and drainage.
- Great for Product Absorption: Sloughing off dead skin cells clears the way for your body oils and moisturisers to sink in more deeply leaving skin soft, smooth and seriously nourished.
How Often Can You Dry Brush?
Think of dry brushing as a gentle form of physical exfoliation. For most, two to three times a week is plenty to keep your skin glowing and your lymphatic system humming. Overdoing it can irritate sensitive skin, so it’s best to keep it balanced.
And here’s a quick hygiene tip: make sure to clean your brush regularly to avoid buildup of dead skin and bacteria. After brushing, jump straight into the shower to rinse away those loosened skin cells, then follow up with a fragrance-free moisturiser—your skin might be a little more sensitive than usual, so keep it gentle. After that, you’re good to glow and go.
Best Dry Brushing Essentials
Tronque Ionic Dry Body Brush
Unlike many brushes that can feel harsh or prickly, this has a wonderfully soft yet firm feel. What sets it apart? The copper bristles don’t soak up oils like typical brushes, so it stays fresh and effective longer. With each use, you might start to notice smooth flakes of dead skin coming off, especially on the legs the areas prone to bumps or ingrowns.
It’s gentle enough for everyday use without any irritation, making it a total game-changer.
kit: All Body Dry Brush
A fantastic budget-friendly option if you’re just starting out with dry brushing, this kit dry brush is perfect for gently massaging the skin, deep cleansing the skin, and giving your body a thorough scrub.
Made with densely packed Tampico bristles, it offers light but effective exfoliation, sweeping away dead skin to reveal smoother, glowing skin beneath. The bristles have a nice firm texture but are still gentle enough for sensitive skin, making it a great all-rounder for beginners.
OSEA Undaria Algae Body Oil
This body oil is a dream for after your dry brushing ritual and my personal favourite. Packed with nourishing seaweed extract and a blend of lightweight botanical oils, it sinks in quickly to hydrate and soothe skin without leaving any greasy residue.
Dry brushing can leave your skin feeling fresh but a little thirsty, and this oil steps in to replenish moisture, helping to lock in all that silky smoothness while supporting your skin’s natural barrier. Plus, it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin, making it a great choice if you want a clean, nourishing finish to your body care routine.
Aveeno Daily Moisturising Vitamin E Body Oil Mist Spray
If you’re after a more affordable body oil that doesn’t compromise on quality, this one’s a winner. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, it’s never greasy and smells deliciously fresh with a subtle, luxe scent.
Formulated to deeply hydrate, it’s packed with jojoba and oat oils that leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and perfectly nourished. Perfect for smoothing on after dry brushing or any time your skin needs a little extra love.
CeraVe Moisturising Cream
After dry brushing, your skin might feel a little sensitive, so reaching for a moisturiser that’s both soothing and deeply nourishing is key. CeraVe Moisturising Cream fits the bill perfectly rich but gentle, it locks in hydration without causing irritation.
We love that it’s dermatologically tested, fragrance and paraben-free, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic, so it supports your skin’s natural barrier while leaving you with a soft, smooth, and seriously pampered feel.
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