We’re all for genuine, cost-effective solutions for natural beauty, health and wellbeing here at The Good Oil Daily.
And this is one of the best we know for creating gorgeous skin all over your body. (It goes without saying that good hydration, nutrition and moisturisers are all vital, too. I confess, we don’t really want you to pick just one thing. But today’s tip is a beauty.)
You’ll need to invest in a good quality natural bristle brush and this will need replacing from time to time. And you’ll need to invest a few minutes each day.
Does that sound doable? Welcome to dry skin brushing.
According to those already hooked on it, here are some of the potential rewards:
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Increased circulation to encourage release of metabolic waste
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Stimulating the lymphatic system to help release toxins
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More even distribution of fat deposits
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Reduced appearance of cellulite
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Exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and clear pores
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Fewer ingrown hairs
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Glowing, smooth skin
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Feeling invigorated
Ready to give it a try? Here’s the How To. (PS: It’s ridiculously easy.)
Firstly, you need a good quality natural bristle brush. Your local health store will have one. Tell them what it’s for and they will steer you to one with the right kind of bristles — reasonably stiff but not too hard. The bristles will soften over time, so replace the brush when you feel it has lost its vigour. I recommend one with a handle that slides out so you can scrub everything except your back without the handle attached. It’s much easier to manage. Then slide the handle back in if you can’t reach all those hard-to-reach places without it.
Start on dry skin before bathing. (Not damp skin. Not wet skin. Dry skin.)
Work in gentle circular (clockwise), upward motions, then longer, smoother strokes. Always begin at the feet in upwards movements towards the heart. Lymphatic fluid flows towards the heart, so it’s important to brush in the same direction.
After you’ve finished with the ankles, move up to the lower legs, thighs, buttocks, stomach (go easy here — the skin is softer).
Proceed to the hands and arms, and the back, continuing to brush towards the heart.
Be cautious with softer, sensitive skin around the chest and tummy, and avoid delicate areas. And don’t brush over damaged skin.
How much pressure do you apply?
You can apply a reasonable amount of pressure, but remember — you’re not scrubbing pots and pans. Light pink skin after brushing is good; red or irritated skin is not.
For how long do you brush?
There are no hard and fast rules on this. The suggestions range anywhere from two minutes to 10 minutes or longer. But doing a short session every single day is going to achieve better results than a longer session just once every few days or more. Create a habit and you’re more likely to stay with it. If you allow a few minutes or so before every shower, you’ll be dry brushing daily without even thinking about it — just like brushing your teeth.
After dry brushing, it’s important to step straight into the shower to cleanse away toxins that have come to the surface. (And remember to regularly wash your bristle brush with shampoo and allow to dry in the sun. Grab a five minute sun bath while you’re at it and top up your Vitamin D.)
This will also connect you up with The Good Oil Team for our personal support and coaching. We'd love to help you on your journey to vibrant well-being the natural way!
Any questions? Please get in touch via our Contact page.
And there you have it. We’d love to hear how you go! And if you’d like some tips on winter skin care in particular, head over here to read more.
