Monday, March 25, 2013

Dry Brushing

So, I just found out about this great skin exfoliating technique called dry brushing. I did some research on it, as I always do, because I don't tend to take beauty and health tips for truth based off of one source or what one person says.

It is supposedly really good for circulation, as well as exfoliation of the skin. Some claim it is even good for getting rid of cellulite. I am not sure how true that last point is, but I could definitely understand the circulation bit because you are increasing your blood flow by stimulating your skin, which in turn boosts your immune system and helps to detoxify. I can also understand the exfoliation bit because you are sloughing off dead skin cells at the surface so that your skin is softer and can absorb nutrients more easily.

The best time to do this is right before you shower, in the shower with the water off, so then after you are done, you can then rinse off all of those dead skin cells (yuck!). It is recommended to do this at least 1-2 times per week. Also, avoid brushing your face (you have very delicate skin there), and do not attempt this if you have existing skin problems like eczema, acne, a rash, cuts or lacerations, etc. I got the majority of my information from this site.

Materials:
-a brush with natural bristles and a detachable handle (I got mine at Target for pretty cheap in the skincare aisle)

1. Remove the handle of the brush. Get naked! (HA! I have waited so long to be able to say that for a step 1 in a post! Sorry to say you will NOT see a picture of me naked--this is not THAT kind of a site!)

2. Start with your feet, moving in circular motions, always moving towards the heart. Do the bottom of your feet first, and then the top. You are going to want to brush gently on areas in which the skin is thinner (like the top of the foot) and a little harder in areas where the skin is thick (like the bottom of your feet).


3. Work up each leg, one at a time, first at the back of the leg, using the same soft, circular motions towards the heart. Move up through the buttocks, and then to the front of the leg. Avoid any delicate skin, like the insides of the thighs.


4. After you are finished with the lower half, start at the fingertips of one arm, and move up the arm and towards the heart. Repeat on the other arm.



5. Move to the back (this is where you will need to reattach the handle to the brush--I've got long arms, but not THAT long!), working your movements towards your stomach. Start with one side of the back, and then repeat on the other.

6. When you get to your stomach, start at your lower abdomen and work your way up. Avoid delicate areas (like the nipples). End at your chest in an upward stroke.


7. Rinse off and shower as usual.

After doing this, my skin does feel softer. It's kind of a weird feeling to get used to though. Also, I enjoyed the massage that the brush gives! I will keep this up at least once per week, when I have the time. :)

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