Dry Brushing 101 with Kim Kelder
Perhaps this time at home is inspiring you to experiment with new self-care practices, whether that’s trying on a new hair color or copying the latest dance moves from on TikTok. But if you’ve been curious about dry-brushing – a centuries-old technique that carries with it many health and beauty benefits – today’s your day.
According to Miraval Arizona’s lead esthetician Kim Kelder, dry brushing increases circulation in the body, allowing the body to detoxify itself naturally. It can also help reduce the appearance of cellulite.
This is because the massaging action of dry brushing can actually work at the cellular level to help to reduce tissue edema under the skin that presents as cellulite.
In addition to improved circulation, dry brushing can also reveal more radiant skin by removing dead skin cells that carry oil, dirt and residue which can actually make your moisturizer more effective. And according to the Cleveland Clinic, dry brushing can also stimulate the nervous system, making you feel mentally invigorated and energized.
If you’re ready to try it, here’s Kim’s advice:
STEP ONE: Go online and find a dry brush specifically designed for use on the body. When shopping, look for medium to soft bristles made of natural materials like cactus or agave bristles called sisal.
STEP TWO: Once you have your brush in hand, stand in the shower with your brush before you turn on the water.
STEP THREE: Grip the head of the brush and massage your dry body in an upwards motion using light strokes, starting with your feet, and move up to your calves, thighs, hips, and beyond.
STEP FOUR: Hold the long arm of the brush to access harder-to-reach back areas.
STEP FIVE: Shower normally.
STEP SIX: With the shower still running, rinse your dry brush to prevent dead skin accumulation.
STEP SEVEN: Towel off and apply body moisturizer that address your needs. i.e
Dry skin: use a cream with shea butter or ceramides, which are lipids that help form a protective barrier over your skin, or a body lotion with hyaluronic acid, a potent molecule that retains moisture.
Aging skin: use a body cream with alpha hydroxy acid, which helps unclog pores, or retinol, which helps stimulate cell regeneration.
Sun damaged skin: use a body cream with SPF and the antioxidant vitamin C.
Some of Kim’s favorites include: Naturopathica Sicilian Bergamot Body Lotion, EmerginC Vitamin C, Hemp, Avocado and Argan Body Lotion, Laurel Sun Body Oil, and Coola’s Mineral Body Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30.
STEP EIGHT: Practice daily for best results.
Happy brushing!