Dry Brushing

There is something wonderfully simple about dry brushing. No complicated routine, no expensive equipment and no long list of products, just a brush and a few quiet minutes before your bath or shower.

Dry brushing can exfoliate the skin, remove loose surface cells and leave the skin feeling smoother and refreshed. It can also be an enjoyable self-care ritual. For some people, the sensation is invigorating; for others, the slow repetitive movement makes it a quiet few minutes of attention to the body.

What Is Dry Brushing?

Dry brushing is exactly what the name suggests: gently brushing dry skin with a body brush, usually before bathing or showering.

As we move through the day, the surface of the skin naturally accumulates loose, dead skin cells. Gentle brushing helps lift some of these away and can leave rough or flaky areas feeling noticeably smoother.

The brushing also creates a pleasant feeling of warmth and stimulation. Many people enjoy doing it first thing in the morning because it feels awakening, while others prefer to make it part of a slower evening bathing ritual.

Hand holding a natural bristle body brush

Choosing a Dry Brushing Brush

Choose a body brush that feels comfortable against your skin. A natural-bristle brush is generally better than an artificial brush. A brush with a long handle is particularly useful because it allows you to reach your back, shoulders and other awkward areas. Most importantly, your brush should belong to you alone. Don't share it with other people.

If you don't want to use a dry brush there are a few nice alternatives.

A loofah is probably the closest traditional alternative. Best used wet in the shower. It can be quite abrasive, so softer pressure is better for mature or sensitive skin.

An exfoliating mitt is easy to control and excellent for arms and legs. Some are very gentle; others are surprisingly rough.

I use a washcloth. It's underrated, inexpensive, washable, and often a better choice for sensitive skin. A textured cotton cloth gives mild mechanical exfoliation without much irritation.

Silicone body scrubber — soft, hygienic and easy to clean. It gives more massage than exfoliation, which can be ideal for delicate skin.

A body scrub of sugar, salt or other granular scrubs can exfoliate without a brush, although heavily fragranced products may irritate sensitive skin.

How to do Dry Brushing

Step into your shower or bathroom. They are ideal because any loose skin cells can simply be washed away afterward. Take off your clothes and start brushing.

Many people give detailed instructions on where to start and which direction to brush in. There are many charts like the one above showing you the correct way. In practice I found that going with your intuition is best. Brush those parts you feel need it the most and go softly over sensitive areas such as breasts and face. Don't brush directly over cuts or grazes, sunburn, painful or irritated areas, and areas with skin conditions.

How Often Should You Dry Brush?

Let your skin decide. Some people enjoy a short daily brushing ritual, while others find that two or three times a week is plenty. If your skin feels good your routine is working well. If it becomes increasingly dry, tender or irritated, brush less often or take a break.