Why You Need Dry Brushing in Your Life (And How to Do It Right)

I’ll admit it—I was skeptical about dry brushing when I first heard about it. It sounded a little… scratchy. But as someone who’s spent years figuring out how to take better care of my skin (and my overall health), I decided to give it a shot.

Dry brushing has quickly become one of my favourite self-care rituals, and let me tell you, it’s not just about getting softer skin (though that’s a huge bonus). There’s so much history, science, and even some unexpected benefits behind this practice. Plus, it’s simple, affordable, and incredibly satisfying.

So let’s dive in. I’m here to tell you everything you need to know about dry brushing—from where it came from, to how it works, to whether it’s actually worth the hype (spoiler: it is).

The Fascinating History of Dry Brushing

Dry brushing might seem like a modern wellness trend, but its roots go back centuries. In Ayurvedic medicine, garshana involved using raw silk gloves or natural fibers to exfoliate, boost circulation, and detoxify. Similarly, the Greeks and Romans used tools like strigils to cleanse and refresh their skin after exercise or bathing, making exfoliation a key part of their health rituals.

Today, dry brushing is enjoying a well-deserved comeback. With improved tools and a touch of modern science, this ancient practice continues to prove its ability to exfoliate, energize, and support overall wellness.

Why I’ll Never Stop Dry Brushing

Let’s get real: I love dry brushing because it makes my skin feel amazing. But the benefits go way beyond that. Here’s what I’ve noticed:

1. Softer, Smoother Skin

The first time I tried dry brushing, I was blown away by how soft my skin felt afterward. It’s like a full-body reset for your skin—goodbye, dry patches.

2. Lymphatic Support

Your lymphatic system is like the garbage truck of your body, moving toxins out so you can feel your best. Dry brushing helps give it a little boost. I even met a customer who swears by her sisal body brush after mastectomy surgery. She had nerve pain in her arm from losing too many lymph nodes, and dry brushing was the only thing that brought her relief. She told her oncologist, and now they recommend it, too. How cool is that?

3. Circulation on Point

You know that fresh, tingly feeling you get after a workout? Dry brushing gives you a mini version of that. It boosts blood flow and leaves your skin looking more alive (and less like it’s been hiding under layers of sweaters all winter).

4. It’s Weirdly Relaxing

I didn’t expect this, but dry brushing has become part of my wind-down routine. There’s something about the repetitive motion and feeling of taking care of myself that makes me actually look forward to it.

How to Dry Brush: A Simple Guide

If you’re ready to give dry brushing a try, here’s how to do it step by step, with tips on technique and how to brush every area—including those tricky-to-reach spots like your back.

1. Grab the Right Brush

Start with a natural fiber brush that suits your needs. For larger areas like your legs and arms, I recommend our bamboo sisal body brush. For delicate areas like your face, go for a softer option like our goat hair face brush or the slightly firmer sisal face brush. For your back, use a brush with a long handle, or a detachable brush head that you can maneuver easily.

2. Master the Technique

Use light to medium pressure—this isn’t about scrubbing your skin raw, just gently exfoliating and stimulating circulation. Move in long, upward strokes, always brushing toward your heart to follow the natural flow of your lymphatic system. For circular areas like your stomach and joints (knees, elbows), switch to small, gentle circular motions.

3. Start at Your Feet

Begin at your feet and work your way upward. Use long strokes on your legs, moving toward your thighs. Don’t forget the tops and bottoms of your feet—those areas can benefit from exfoliation too!

4. Work Your Way Up

Continue brushing up your body, covering your thighs, arms, and torso. On your arms, start at your hands and brush toward your shoulders. For your stomach, use those small, circular strokes in a clockwise motion (this follows your digestive flow).

5. Don’t Forget Your Back

Your back might seem tricky, but it’s worth the effort—it’s a large area that benefits from lymphatic stimulation. Use a brush with a long handle for those hard-to-reach spots, or try a detachable brush head for more flexibility. Start at the lower back and brush upward toward your shoulders, keeping strokes firm but gentle.

6. Be Kind to Your Face

The skin on your face is thinner and more sensitive, so stick to softer brushes like our goat hair face brush. Use light pressure and short strokes, brushing outward from the center of your face to stimulate circulation while being gentle on your skin.

7. How Often and How Long?

Aim to dry brush 2-3 times a week. Sessions don’t need to be long—5-10 minutes is plenty to enjoy the benefits without over-exfoliating. If you’re new to dry brushing, start slowly, with shorter sessions, and see how your skin responds.

8. Finish Strong

After brushing, hop in the shower to rinse away the dead skin cells you’ve exfoliated. Then follow up with a nourishing moisturizer, like our Nude Tallow Whip, to lock in hydration and keep your skin feeling soft and refreshed.

Dry Brushing Tools: What Are Your Options?

Not all dry brushes are created equal, and choosing the right one can make all the difference. Here’s a breakdown of the options and where they shine:

• Sisal Brushes: Made from agave plant fibers, sisal brushes are firm and perfect for larger areas like your legs, arms, and torso. Our sisal body brush is a go-to for effective exfoliation and promoting circulation.

• Goat Hair Brushes: If you have sensitive skin, goat hair brushes are a must. They’re incredibly soft and gentle, making them perfect for your face or areas prone to irritation. Our goat hair faced brush is an ideal choice for a more delicate touch.

• Combination Brushes: These brushes balance firmness and gentleness, making them versatile for both sensitive and tougher areas. Our sisal face brush offers the best of both worlds, giving you effective exfoliation without being too harsh.

• Back Bands: For those hard-to-reach spots on your back, a sisal back band is a game-changer. These flexible, strap-style brushes allow you to exfoliate your back easily and evenly, ensuring no spot is missed. Add one to your dry brushing routine for the ultimate full-body experience.

• Synthetic Brushes: These do exist, but they tend to be harsher on the skin and are less eco-friendly. Whenever possible, stick to natural fibers like sisal or goat hair for better results and a greener footprint.

The Honest Truth About Dry Brushing

Let’s be honest—not everyone’s skin is going to fall in love with dry brushing right away, and that’s okay. If you have super sensitive skin, eczema, or open wounds, it’s best to hold off or consult a dermatologist first. And even if your skin can handle it, there’s no need to go overboard. Light, gentle strokes are all you need—think “invigorating,” not “scratching.”

If you find traditional dry brushing a bit too harsh, you could try a softer approach by using your brush with a bit of oil or water. While it won’t offer the full lymphatic benefits of dry brushing, it’s a great way to ease into the practice or to pamper areas that need a gentler touch. Start slow, see how your skin responds, and adjust as needed.

At the end of the day, it’s about listening to your skin. Whether you stick with dry brushing or try a softer variation, the key is finding what works for you.

Final Thoughts

Dry brushing is one of those rituals that feels simple but delivers in a big way. From softer skin to better circulation and lymphatic support, it’s worth carving out a few extra minutes in your day.

Whether you’re tackling dry winter skin, looking for a natural way to detox, or just want to add a moment of intentional care to your routine, dry brushing might just become your new favorite thing.

Let me know how it goes—I can’t wait to hear about your experience!

Love,

Lia