We talk to two skin experts about the benefits of body brushing. And the reasons to get into the ritual are plentiful. From lymphatic drainage and cellulite reduction, to firming and toning the skin, body brushing could just be the answer to all our body woes.
#1. It zaps toxins
If you think you need to put your clients on a strict detox diet, think again. Body brushing could get rid of unwanted toxins.
“The body is capable of losing 1lb of toxins a day and body brushing will go a long way in assisting this process,” says Noella Gabriel, Co-Founder and Creator of Elemis Therapies.
#2. Circulation gets a boost
Just like a quick jog gets the body firing, so does a couple of minutes of body brushing. “Body brushing gets circulation back on track and increases lymphatic flow, while ridding the skin of dead cells,” says Gabriel. “Dry-brushing the skin every day before showering will increase firmness and tone – and encourage cellulite deposits and areas of congestion to disperse.”
But always keep the brush natural, says Cara Doncovio, Education Coordinator for endota spa. “Always use a plant bristle skin brush,” she says. “Plant bristles can be soft, medium and firm, so choose a plant bristle that matches your [clients’] requirements.”
#3. Immunity is restored
Not just for the body beautiful, body brushing will help keep colds and other lurgies at bay (you’ll feel more spring in your step too). “Not only does your body look better, energy and immunity levels go up,” says Gabriel.
#4. Lymph drainage happens
Body brushing will help with problems both internally and on the skin by encouraging lymph drainage. “Dry body brushing has been used for years because the health benefits are so extensive,” says Doncovio. “It can improve venous blood circulation and lymphatic drainage and aid the release of toxins.”
And recommend your clients follow a brushing session with water. “It’s best to follow brushing with some form of hydrotherapy such as shower or bath,” says Doncovio.
#5. Ingrown hairs…what ingrown hairs?
“Body brushing really helps get rid of ingrown hairs,” says Gabriel who recommends a few minutes of body brushing before showering to clients looking to get the issue under control.
#6. The whole body gets a whizz
When the body is feeling sluggish, body brushing will help kick start things – and explain to your clients why the brush must be dry. “Always perform on dry skin,” says Doncovio. This will provide the best stimulation and exfoliation. When plant bristles are wet, they go soft and clump together so you won’t get the results you are after.”
Also recommend starting at the feet and moving upwards. “Generally stroke upward in one movement towards the heart,” adds Doncovio.
#7. Glow will be yours
A great way to add a polished look to the skin is to combine body brushing with a glow-inducing scrub.
“Daily body brushing and exfoliation at least twice a week using a product such as Elemis Lime & Ginger Salt Glow is a must,” says Gabriel. “It helps to keep the glow and prevents the skin from looking dry and depleted.”
#8. Cellulite fades…
To get rid of cellulite, regularly stroking limbs with a body brush will help smooth lumpy skin.
“Regular exfoliation all year round, twice a week to slough off dead skin cells will keep the skin responding and functioning at its peak,” says Gabriel. “Give particularly dry areas and cellulite special attention, but don’t scrub.”
Doncovio agrees. “[Recommend] brushing with light strokes, repeat seven times, and adjust the pressure to your comfort levels,” she says.
#9. Chronic skin conditions are eased
Body brushing does more than just make the body feel good, it can help easy chronic skin conditions too. “Body brushing is great for reducing the effects of many skin conditions like Psoriasis, Keratosis Pilaris and Eczema,” says Doncovio.
Just remember to keep things clean so you don’t spread infections. “It’s important to use a brush that has natural bristles and to replace it after a year. Spraying it with the ELEMIS Tea Tree SOS Spray after each use help keep it hygienic.”
#10. Bumps are banished
For women who suffer from bumps on the back of the legs and arms, body brushing is a saviour. “Body brushing will remove bumpy skin from backs of leg and buttocks to achieve soft sexy skin on legs for the first time in years,” says Doncovio.
#11. Skin is tightened
When incorporated into a healthy lifestyle, regular body brushing can make big differences to body firmness.
“The energising benefits of skin brushing can be felt just days after starting the process and could also tighten the skin and reduce cellulite in many cases, particularly if complemented with regular exercise, a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water,” says Doncovio.