Last updated on November 8th, 2021 at 05:21 pm
It is common knowledge that our skin is an organ, but did you know that it is our largest organ? Did you also know that our skin aids our bodies in detoxification, and is, therefore, a detoxification organ?
Our skin tends to be the first to show signs of degeneration and other imbalances, and it is also the last to heal. The skin also receives one-third of the circulation of blood and weighs twice as much as the brain.
The pores in the skin help us rid our bodies of toxins. There are many ways to stimulate the exercise of the pores – cardiovascular exercise, infrared saunas, sunshine, keeping toxic chemicals off of the skin, and also dry brushing.
The skin is a very important and vital and breathing organ, and therefore we need to take extra caution in what we apply to our skin. Yes, the skin is our first line of protection, but it is also very absorbent, and this means that whatever you apply to your skin will end up in the bloodstream, lymphatic system, and even the cardiovascular system. This event will put extra strain on the liver and kidneys to neutralize the adverse effects.
Other functions of the skin include:
♦ acts as a protective shield to the body’s structure
♦ regulates body temperature
♦ works as a respiratory organ
♦ performs absorption activities by assimilating oxygen and other nutrients
♦ supports the elimination of toxic waste from the body
Dry brushing is one of my favorite (simple and cost-effective ways) to support my body’s natural detoxification system. It feels so good, and loving our skin is one of the best things we can do for ourselves.
What is dry brushing?
The aim of dry brushing is to exfoliate dry skin with a dry brush. As mentioned above the skin is the body’s largest organ and is responsible for excreting many toxins from the pores. Dry brushing simply helps to keep pores unclogged, and removes toxins that may have built upon the skin.
What are the potential benefits of dry brushing?
It may seem a little too good to be true, that something as simple as dry brushing can have so many benefits. This simple wellness practice truly packs a punch. It feels like a spa treatment right before a warm bath but in the comfort of your own home.
Lymphatic Support
The lymphatic system is a huge player in the body’s immune system and it is also responsible for ridding the body of unwanted toxins. It is made up of organs, lymph nodes and ducts, and lymphatic vessels that transport lymph throughout the body. Since many of the lymph vessels run just below the skin, it is believed that dry brushing regularly helps to stimulate and reinvigorate the normal lymph flow in the body. This helps the body to detoxify itself naturally.
Exfoliation
Using a dry brush, and running a firm, but natural bristled brush over the skin helps to loosen and remove dead skin cells. This practice is basically like a natural exfoliation. Some notice that their skin is less dry and much softer in the first few days of dry brushing.
Unclogs Pores
Clogged pores are notorious for making it much harder on the body to detoxify, and this leads to breakouts and an uneven skin tone. The beautiful added benefit of this exfoliating practice is that it clears oil, dirt, and other residues from the pores. The clearing of clogged pores makes them appear smaller over time and therefore keeps the skin looking clear and beautiful.
Added bonus: dry brushing is also great for getting rid of ingrown hairs.
Reduces Cellulite
Cellulite is a result of stagnant lymph. Now there isn’t a ton of research to back the cellulite claims, but since dry brushing increases circulation and helps remove toxins from the body, it will result in smoother and more plump-looking skin.
Here are a few more benefits:
♦ stimulates the hormones and oil-producing glands in the skin
♦ helps keep the skin soft, supple, glowing, and youthful
♦ helps improve muscle tone
♦ positively influences the nervous system, by stimulating the nerve endings
♦ aids the body in the removal of toxins
♦ improves health and vitality
♦ natural energy booster
What kind of dry brush?
There are honestly so many options out there, it can be quite overwhelming. In an effort to simplify things a little, I suggest opting for a dry brush with natural, firm bristles instead of synthetic materials. Some people prefer a dry brush with a long handle, so they can reach their back and the bottom of their feet. I like the body dry brush and the face dry brush from Primally Pure.
The dry brush bristles will eventually wear out, so it is recommended to replace your dry brush every 6-12 months. Wash your dry brush every few weeks to remove all the dead skin cells.
How to dry brush?
The key to dry brushing is to start with dry skin, so brush before you take a shower or bath so that you can rinse off all the dead skin and other impurities.
1. Starting at the feet, brush the bottom of the feet and up the legs in long smooth strokes. Typically you’ll brush each section of skin 8-10 times. For lymph flow, you always brush towards your heart/chest area, this is where the lymphatic system drains.
2. The rule of thumb is to always brush towards the center of the body.
3. Repeat the same process with the arms, starting at the palm of the hands and brushing up the arm towards the heart. Again you will typically brush each section 8-10 times.
4. For the stomach and armpits you will brush in a circular clockwise motion.
5. Repeat the process on the rest of the abdomen and back.
6. Switch to your face with a softer more delicate brush.
A few things to note:
♦ dry brushing your entire body should take 45 seconds to about 2 minutes.
♦ it is best to wait a little while before using moisturizer or lotion so the pores can breathe and continue to rid themselves of toxins.
♦ don’t brush too hard – your skin will be slightly pink after brushing, but it should never be red or sting.
How often should you dry brush?
If you can dry brush daily, I highly encourage it. It is such a great way to keep your skin looking healthy and to support detoxification. With that being said, even just a few times a week can be so beneficial. I aim to dry brush 3-4 times a week, and I can tell a huge difference when I take the time to do it.
It is also important to note that dry brushing has a cumulative effect, the more frequently you do it, the better the results.
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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