If you have been reading LOOK for the past year, you know that I am obsessed with lymphatic drainage methods. This began in Monterrey, Mexico after I went to SMU Alumni Elba Oward’s spa, Casa Valka now named Casas Ikalii. At Ikalii, I learned about the huge variety of benefits that are offered by lymphatic drainage through massages, a holistic and natural method to help our body get rid of toxins which you can read about here. It has now been about a year since I got a full-body lymphatic massage and I still rave about it to anyone I know.
I then discovered gua-sha, a stone tool used to massage the face to get rid of inflammation through a series of viral Tik-Tok videos last semester. I was willing to try anything relating to lymph drainage because of my amazing Ikalii experience and I was not disappointed, check out my guide to gua-sha here! I still use my Gua-Sha often, especially when I am feeling puffy.
Now, influencers like Tinx and Kourtney Kardashian’s brand poosh have been raving about dry-brushing, another form of lymph drainage, so I had to check it out!
What is dry brushing?
Dry brushing is a form of lymphatic drainage for the entire body using a hand-held wooden brush with stiff, short bristles on entirely dry skin. Dry brushing activates blood circulation and the lymphatic system, which is where the benefits begin.
Watch this short video from Goop for a brief explanation and demonstration of how to use the brush. Overall, the point is to brush towards your lymphatic nodes, upwards, and towards the heart in order to encourage natural drainage. Here is a longer video if you are a beginner and would rather follow along before you decide what routine works for you!
What are the benefits?
Dry brushing may help encourage blood circulation and lymphatic drainage activation as well as reduce the appearance of cellulite, stretch marks, and any unwanted skin texture. However, my favorite benefit is the removal of dead skin- my body is noticeably softer when I dry brush regularly in a way that exfoliating just does not do.
When should I dry brush?
Dry brushing can be done as often or as little as you want but of course like anything else, consistency is key to results. I love to dry brush before a morning shower that way all the dead skin can easily be washed away and I can moisturize after.
Where can I get a dry brush?
There are a ton of options for dry brushes like this one from poosh. However, if you are looking for something super affordable, I got mine from Amazon for less than $10. There are also other affordable options, like this one from goop.
Overall, the benefits of dry brushing will vary from person to person, but everyone who tries it will experience the satisfaction of knowing you did something to treat yourself and your body! I am obsessed with having little habits every day that make me feel like I am taking care of myself and this definitely reminds me of my beautiful experience at the Casa Ikalii spa that initially sparked my love for lymphatic drainage!
Happy Brushing!
