Whether you refer to it as dry brushing, dry skin brushing or garshana, this is an exfoliation method that’s done by oneself, at home, using a natural bristle brush. By gently brushing the skin, it sweeps away dead skin cells, leaving skin smoother and softer.
Its origins trace back to Ayuverda, a traditional medicine of ancient India, although these days, it’s gaining in popularity on social media.
What’s this treatment used for and what’s the best way to do it? You’ve come to the right place: let us explain everything you need to know.
Steps to follow
First, you need a natural fibre brush; ideally one with a handle if you want to brush your entire body.
Remove your clothes and get brushing. We recommend going from bottom to top: start with the feet, then gradually move up along the legs, and then up the body to the stomach, chest and arms.
Trace large circles with the brush, applying light pressure, especially on parts where the skin is more delicate. It should feel good! For thicker skin, like the soles of the feet, it’s alright to apply a slightly firmer pressure.
If you want to brush your face, we recommend a smaller, more delicate brush that’s specially designed for this more sensitive area.
Once you’ve brushed your body, take a cool shower or bath to wash away the dead skin cells.
Next, gently pat yourself dry with a towel and moisturize your skin with the product of your choice. You may prefer a natural oil, like coconut or olive.
Repeat this process once per week to start. If your skin tolerates it well, you can then increase the frequency to a few days each week.
After dry brushing
Rinse your brush after each session, and then let it dry in a well-ventilated area, preferably under the sun.
We also recommend cleaning your brush with soap and water weekly. For hygiene reasons, it’s best not to share your brush with others.
The real benefits
The dry brushing process aims to exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells, which gives way to smoother and softer skin.
Many people enjoy the feeling of dry brushing and feel more invigorated and refreshed after a session. Dry brushing is a form of self-care to feel good. To fully benefit from it, find a calm and quiet place and make it a beauty ritual for the ultimate in relaxation.
Other benefits yet to be proven
It’s important to separate fact from fiction regarding the benefits of this home care treatment. Many benefits have been attributed to dry brushing, like improved blood circulation, a reduction of the appearance of cellulite, improved lymphatic circulation and even a strengthened immune system. Note that these are hypotheses which, at the moment, are not based on any scientific study.
Is it right for you?
People with eczema, psoriasis and rosacea should avoid dry brushing, as these conditions could be aggravated by this treatment.
While brushing, it’s important to avoid any area with an injury, sunburn or inflammation.
For people with darker skin, it’s important to note that the skin is more prone to dark spots. If you still want to attempt this treatment, it’s best to go with a very gentle exfoliation and do it less often.
In general, a very intense exfoliation can cause irritation, pain, scrapes and minor wounds. This is why it’s imperative to always brush very gently, especially when first starting out.
After all, when you treat yourself to a skincare routine, it’s because you want to do yourself some good!
Sources :
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dry-brushing?
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7317706/
https://www.consumerreports.org/health/is-dry-brushing-safe-for-deeper-skin-tones-a8918272306/