How To Dry Brush (And Why It's So Good For Your Skin) According To Dermatologists

We hope you love the products we recommend! All of them were independently selected by our editors. Just so you know, HuffPost UK may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to shop from them. Oh, and FYI — prices are accurate and items in stock as of time of publication.If you’re interested in skin and body care, chances are you’ve heard of dry brushing. Anyone who’s invested in learning more about-self care will also know that there’s a fair amount of snake oil out there, and sometimes it can be hard to spot the worthwhile practises in what feels like a sea of fakery. Well we’re here to tell you that dry brushing did not emerge from the fakery sea.In fact, consultant dermatologist and dermatological surgeon Dr Magnus Lynch tells HuffPost UK: “Forms of dry brushing have been around for thousands of years and it is thought to have been a practice that dates back to Ancient Greece, India and Japan.”If you want to learn more about this literally ancient DIY beauty treatment, we’ve chatted to the experts to get all the information you need, as well as what to shop if you decide to give it a whirl.What exactly is dry brushing?It’s more or less exactly what it sounds like – taking a dry brush with natural bristles and brushing your body with it, ideally before you bathe or shower. Dr Aiza Jamil, who’s a board-certified dermatologist, says it helps get rid of dead skin cells, smooth, and soften your skin, giving you more of a glow. There are also some pretty big claims about what dry brushing can do, like get rid of cellulite, boost your immune system, or ‘detox’ your skin, whatever that’s meant to mean. Dr Aiza says: “In short, dry brushing primarily provides exfoliation and a temporary glow, while other claims, such as detoxification or permanent cellulite reduction – lack solid scientific evidence. Yes, dry brushing can improve circulation and temporarily increase blood flow to the skin, but these are short-lived and not long-term.”How to get your dry brushing routine just right If you want to give it a try, Dr Aiza says it’s important to choose the right brush and get your technique down.She instructs: “Brush in long strokes with gentle pressure for about five minutes across the body, always moving toward the heart. “After brushing, shower to remove the exfoliated skin cells, then follow with a moisturiser or oil that contains hydrating ingredients and supports the skin barrier. This ensures your skin stays smooth, nourished, and healthy.”Are there any risks? You don’t want to get carried away and brush too hard.“From a dermatologist perspective, dry brushing can actually damage the skin barrier if carried out too abrasively,” Dr Magnus cautions. “It will dry out the skin which in turn will need increased moisture and, especially for those with sensitive skin, it can cause irritation, micro-tears, bleeding and even infection. “If you suffer from keratosis polaris, rosacea or eczema, you should seek medical advice before carrying out any harsh exfoliation.”So if you want your skin to look healthier, his recommendation is to scrub with a gentler face cloth instead of a brush. He also advises using products with AHAs and BHAs weekly – look for ingredients like lactic acid, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid. Dr Aiza agrees, adding: “Gentle scrubs or exfoliating gloves can also be used if your skin tolerates physical exfoliation well. When it comes to cellulite, topical retinoids can help improve skin firmness, while professional treatments such as radiofrequency, ultrasound therapies like Sofwave, or laser procedures may also provide visible results. “To boost circulation and skin tone, regular massages with firming oils and consistent exercise are key, as they help strengthen muscles and support healthy, vibrant-looking skin.”Related...I Tried A Skincare Brand I’d Never Heard Of. Now Everyone’s Asking About My SkinThis Foundation And Primer Duo Has Changed The Game For My Oily SkinThe UK's First Anti-Cellulite Supplement Promises Smoother Skin – Here's How It Works

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