Have you tried facial dry brushing? Learn an easy and inexpensive technique to get soft and glowing skin.

What is facial dry brushing and what are its benefits?

Facial dry brushing is a gentle method of physical exfoliation using a small soft brush to remove the top layer of dead skin cells which eliminates dull and tired looking skin. The technique removes build up and dry flaky skin which can clog pores and prevent the proper absorption of products. 

Facial dry brushing helps to tone and firm the skin, reduce fine lines, increase circulation, and reduce congestion and puffiness skin as lymphatic fluid is moved from the face and neck.

Facial dry brushing and the skin

The skin is the largest organ of elimination and as we age desquamation, which is the natural process of shedding dead skin cells, becomes more difficult. The outermost layer of the skin is shed every 25-30 days, but with time, this process is prolonged and becomes less effective, causing a dull and lacklustre look in ageing skin. Physical exfoliation encourages the removal of the outermost layer and helps to reveal brighter, newer, and healthier-looking skin.

Facial dry brushing and the lymphatic system

The technique helps to stimulate lymphatic drainage and detoxification. The lymphatic system is made up of a large network of lymphatic vessels, tissues and nodes throughout the body which remove toxins and carry lymphatic fluid to the heart. Lymphatic fluid is detoxifying, it carries waste products and cellular debris and it is also part of the immune system, carrying white blood cells. 

Dry brushing helps to gently move stagnant and congested areas of lymphatic fluid and helps to the waste byproducts carried in lymph fluid. This can help reduce puffiness in the face. 

How to dry brush your face 

The practice is done with a small brush with very fine and soft natural bristles. It can be done in the morning or evening as an addition to your routine, once or twice a week. The skin on the face is delicate, so facial dry brushing is recommended only once or twice a week for three to five minutes. 

Start with clean, dry skin. With gentle strokes, work your way up from your chin to your hairline and ears, brushing upwards to move lymphatic fluid along and  increase circulation. The key is to be gentle with your skin and use light strokes, facial dry brushing should not hurt. 

Don’t forget the neck and decolletage, brush from your chest upwards to your neck and to the bottom of your chin. 

Finish with a nutrient rich face oil or moisturizer to keep your skin moisturized and hydrated. 

Most skin types can benefit from facial dry brushing, but if your skin is inflamed, red, irritated or has conditions such as acne, eczema or rosacea, then save dry brushing for after your skin has healed. Dry brushing can aggravate sensitive skin and inflamed skin. Do not attempt dry brushing on damp skin or sunburned skin.

To keep your brush clean, wash it every couple of weeks with water and soap and allow it to dry.

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