Week 20 of Weekly Wellness: Dry Brushing Benefits

[Photo by Ava Sol]

I’ve always loved how silky smooth my skin feels after spa body treatments and realized that many of these treatments employ the use of dry brushing prior to the scrubs, oils, and rubdowns that follow. As part of my #WeeklyWellness2021 Challenge, I incorporated dry brushing into my home routine and learned that it’s much more than just body exfoliation.

Week 19 of Weekly Wellness: Chill and Reboot with NuCalm

Research and reviews led me to Prana Brush, where I snagged the Ionic Body Brush. Handcrafted with sustainably-harvested beechwood, smoothed and finished with natural wax, and outfitted with ion-charged copper bristles, the brush includes an outer ring of bristles made from all-natural and ethically sourced boar hair. The quality of the brush is really top notch! Prana Brush also donates 15% of proceeds to nonprofit organization to support the supply of nutritious food to families in developing countries.

The Ionic Body Brush by Prana made with ion-charged copper bristles. [Photo courtesy of Alisha Racker]

What is dry brushing?

A popular practice as of late, dry brushing has actually been around for thousands of years. Several cultures have record of dry brushing, but many attribute the ritual to Ayurverda’s holistic health care system of India.

Dry brushing consists of sweeping a body brush (usually one with natural, firm bristles) on all/desired areas of the body, usually before bathing. As the name states, this technique is typically done ‘dry’ as to keep the integrity of the bristles intact. Long, straight strokes toward the heart are recommended to promote lymph flow, blood circulation, and to help stimulate the nervous system. The brush can be used from head to toe, though delicate areas like the face, neck, and chest are usually skipped. Prana Brush has a specialty face brush on my list to try next!

Skin sensitivity and conditions should be taken into account before dry brushing, and irritations, cuts and raised moles should be avoided. It’s normal for skin to feel a bit flushed after dry brushing, so following the manufacturer’s guidelines and your own skin’s tolerance is your best bet. With that being said, dry brushing is recommended anywhere from once weekly to every day. The process is invigorating and energizing so morning time is ideal.

Commonly known as an “energy brush,” the Ionic Body Brush from Prana takes body brushing to the next level. It’s made with extra-fine, ion-charged copper bristles that naturally create negative ions that protect the body from free radicals and encourage immediate absorption of negative ions into the skin, increasing the benefits of dry brushing. 

Benefits of dry brushing

The most obvious benefit of dry brushing is exfoliation as it eliminates dead skin cells on the body, removing excess dirt or sweat from pores along the way. Additionally, dry brushing improves circulation, aids in digestion, and stimulates the lymphatic system. Immunity is boosted since blood flow is increased while simultaneously helping the body detoxify and rid itself of toxins. Many dry brushers report an a reduction in the appearance of cellulite too, since the boost in circulation helps plump and smooth skin. Along with the health and beautifying advantages comes a flood of relaxation and calming benefits, too. 

My experience

Although rough and scratchy, I’ve found the ritual of dry brushing really relaxing and the benefits glowing. It was a really easy practice to incorporate, only taking 3 to 5 minutes a day as I prepped for the shower. After dry brushing at least five times this week, I’ve noticed my skin feels softer, looks healthier, and the absorption of lotions and creams has drastically improved. On days when I dry brushed in the morning, I felt an invigorating boost to start my day, and enjoyed  the practice both day or night. Overall, dry brushing is an easy and enjoyable way to add an extra bit of well-being into your day!

Cost: $44.50

Available: pranabrush.com

I’d love to hear how you practiced self-care this week! Do you practice dry brushing? Tag me on Instagram @SLCBeautyBabe or @SpaandBeautyToday with tips and suggestions for next week.

[Photos by Alisha Racker]

Alisha Racker’s beauty career has spanned over a decade as she's worked as a master esthetician, skin care PR-pro and freelance writer. She lives in the beautiful mountains of Salt Lake City with her husband and daughter. Follow her on Instagram: @alisharacker