Health and beauty should always go hand in hand, this is the case, because for some time there is a trend that is on the rise as it is dry brushing. Read on and learn more about this technique and the benefits it can bring.
As it is known, the skin is the largest organ of the body. It is composed of blood vessels, nerve endings, sweat glands, etc.; thanks to it, waste is eliminated, as well as digestion and good blood circulation are favored. Therefore, it is essential to take care of it to maintain good health at a general level.
This technique of dry brushing, consists of rubbing the skin using a brush of natural bristles, in order to stimulate the superficial layer of the skin (dermis) and other organs. It is said to be a century old technique, so surely moms and grandmothers knew about this type of massage. At the moment of performing this practice, it starts on the feet, goes up and finishes in the upper parts of the body.
The use of the brush dates back at least 5000 years, initially it was conceived for the brushing of the hair and they were made of primitive materials, with the passage of time the bristles came from the hairs of animals like the wild boar or the camel. Also, as the object evolved, other functions were assigned, such as the toothbrush, the brush for the shower, the bathroom, etc.
It is said that dry brushing is an adaptation of a traditional Ayurvedic medicine massage also known as “garshana”; it has been practiced for hundreds of years in Indian medicine, in order to exfoliate and release toxins. The difference is that in the original silk gloves were worn while being done.
Now, you may wonder why dry? Well, in this way the brush moves more comfortably than on wet skin, therefore, that is why it is used as an exfoliant, it also allows to leave the skin more receptive to the products that are applied later, either to nourish or moisturize. It is even able to reach deeper areas and eliminate liquid and waste substances accumulated in the body more efficiently.
In principle, as mentioned above, it is a technique that has been used to exfoliate the skin, that is, according to the definition of the dictionary: “it refers to removing dead skin cells or to splitting something into sheets or scales”. Therefore, the reference is made to a cosmetic treatment consisting in removing the dead skin cells or the loss of the epidermis in the form of scales. Said cosmetic treatment is considered a facial rejuvenation procedure, due to the fact that the dead cells are eliminated physically or chemically.
However, although there are creams, gloves and other products on the market that allow you to exfoliate the skin; the advantage of dry brushing is how quickly and naturally you will achieve it. Remember that it is necessary to exfoliate the skin at least twice a week (do not overdo it). So passing the brush will help your skin become shiny and healthier.
In addition to the exfoliation of the skin, dry brushing can offer other benefits such as: stimulating the lymphatic system, also known as the circulatory system, since it is composed of lymphatic vessels through which a liquid is transported called lymph; it contains blood cells and these in turn protect the body from germs. In the same way the skin does, it works as a shield against bacteria and microbes; but, it cannot do it by itself, therefore the brushing will help the natural detoxification of the body, improve the circulation and therefore the functioning of the lymphatic vessels.
It also allows to unclog the pores, remember that all the products that are applied on the skin, such as creams, makeup, pollution, among others, can obstruct them. This is improved with a cleanser and an exfoliation; however, brushing is the most natural and profound way to eliminate impurities. In this way, your skin will stay healthy and clean which will result in better absorption of nutrients. But, to apply dry brushing on the face you should do it with a lighter brush to avoid possible irritation.
Another benefit of dry brushing is that it reduces the hated cellulite of women. How? Well, in principle it is known that cellulite is caused by fluid retention, poor circulation, a structure of weak collagen and excess body fat. It can also be caused by hormonal changes, medical problems, genetics and poor diet. Dry brushing stimulates the cells and helps eliminate the toxins that are under the skin, helping to eliminate cellulite. In this way it increases circulation and improves the appearance of your skin greatly.
This fabulous dry brushing can also help you to eliminate stress, yes, also, since it works as a massage, it allows you to relax and therefore put stress aside and feel more energetic. The attributes of brushing can go further helping you with digestion and the functions of the organs. As you can see, the benefits that dry brushing can offer are great and important.
Now, as to which brush you should choose, it should be with vegetable fibers but firm with a long handle to reach the complicated areas, such as your back, for example. But, if you feel more comfortable with a hand brush, you can use it in the same way.
It is recommended to do it before taking your bath and preferably in the morning because after doing so you will feel more energetic to start the day in the best way. After brushing, take your bath as you do regularly.
When brushing begins with the feet, the movements of the brush should be circular. Work little by little and devote the necessary time to each part of the body. Follow the movements upwards until finishing with the neck and the back. The whole process could take around 20 minutes. Finally, finish your ritual by applying coconut or olive oil to extend the feeling of relaxation
Finally, even though every day there are new products, techniques, massages, injections and others in the market that allow you to moisturize, protect and improve the appearance of your skin; there are other old methods that are rediscovered and can bring great benefits not only to your beauty but also to your health, dry brushing is one of them, because it has proven to be a technique that in a simple way will help you improve your health at a general level. If you have not tried it, give yourself the opportunity to live the experience.
ALFA