An Expert Guide To Body Brushing

It Aids Lymphatic Drainage

“Body brushing not only promotes healthy and glowing skin, it aids the lymphatic drainage process. It encourages healthy lymph flow and boosts circulation throughout the body, helping it to detoxify naturally – remember, your skin is the largest organ in the body. Boosting lymph flow is also essential to immune function. If the lymphatic system is blocked, it can lead to a build-up of toxins, which can cause inflammation and illness. Body brushing also balances the nervous system, reducing stress. Taking five minutes every day to body brush in a meditative way using your breath can help you feel more grounded, too.” – Body & lymphatic drainage expert Flavia Morellato

Doing It Regularly Can Help With Cellulite

“Experts agree that body brushing can improve the appearance of cellulite – the brushing action helps distribute fatty deposits more evenly, so the dreaded orange peel effect is less visible. It stimulates the lymph to move and metabolise trapped fluid and toxins that contribute to cellulite by building up around fat cells, pushing them out of line and making the skin look bumpy. It won’t disappear entirely, but it can help smooth the skin.” – Skincare expert & Legology founder Kate Shapland

“While body brushing can help, cellulite must be treated in its own right. It’s mainly an inflammatory or fibrotic issue that will need more than just an improvement in blood circulation. Body brushing will, however, work as a palliative boost for a light result, and/or to prevent it from getting worse. It is important to find the right treatment, depending on the type of cellulite. Manual lymphatic drainage is good for both inflammatory and fibrotic scenarios. To use body brushing as a smoothing tool, you need to do it at least three time a week – this is equivalent to regular cardio exercise.” – Flavia 

The Commitment Is Minimal

“Three to five minutes is all you need. You can body brush at any time of the day, but ideally before bathing. By brushing first thing in the morning, it will give you an energy boost for the day ahead, but if you do it in the evening, you can make it a more relaxing treatment using gentler, methodical strokes. If you’re a beginner, start by doing it three times per week, working up to doing it daily. For visible results, stick with it for two weeks – you won’t look back.” – Flavia

There Is A Right Way To Do It

“Start by brushing your tummy, moving in a clockwise direction to stimulate your thoracic duct and pelvic lymph nodes. Then, move onto your legs, working in long, upwards sweeping motions towards your heart. Use firm, small strokes, several times in each area. Don’t forget the soles of your feet, which have lots of nerve endings. When it comes to the arms, brush upwards towards your armpits as there are many lymph nodes near the armpits – this will get the toxins and stagnant energy moving. Then, brush upwards from your lower back. Use light pressure on the areas where the skin is softer – such as your chest, breasts and stomach – and greater pressure on harder areas. Your skin may appear pinkish in colour at first but don’t be alarmed, this is only a sign of increased circulation.” – Flavia 

Aftercare Counts

“Once you’ve completed your dry brushing, jump in the shower, and if you can bear it, alternate between cold and hot water to maintain optimal circulation. It’s crucial to rinse off properly and remove all dead skin cells. Once you’re dry, use an organic oil – try sweet almond, sesame or coconut oil – combined with an invigorating essential oil blend to stimulate the senses and keep your body glowing. Likewise, if you plan on going out for the day, use SPF afterwards. Body brushing can make your skin more sensitive to the sun – and SPF will also keep it moisturised.” – Flavia 

Choosing The Right Brush Is Important

“A body brush made with natural bristles is essential. Our Lymph-Lite Boom Brush, for example, is made with cactus fibres and has a round, palm-sized wooden handle. Steer clear of a body brush that has plastic nodules – you’ll never see a therapist using a brush like this. It can also help to find an ergonomic brush that sits neatly in your hand for easier brushing and remember to replace your brush frequently. A brush with natural fibres won’t last forever, as the bristles will naturally degrade, especially if they get wet. If your brush has become soft and seems out of shape, it’s time to get a new one. It should last you between six to 12 months.” – Kate 

“Look for high-quality massage brushes which have natural bristles and a circular wooden base. These were made to be easy to hold and they fit perfectly in the palm of your hand, so you can grip firmly and stroke swiftly upwards on areas likes your legs.” – Flavia 

Finally, Be Careful If You Have Sensitive Skin

“Dry brushing has countless benefits, but it may not be suitable for everyone. If you have sensitive skin or a condition such as eczema or psoriasis, speak with your doctor beforehand. It also goes without saying that you should avoid dry brushing if you have inflamed skin.” – Kate  

“If your skin is prone to sensitivity, it could be worth starting gently to build up tolerance. Start by brushing three times per week using light strokes, and monitor your skin for irritation and adverse reactions. Remember it should never feel uncomfortable or painful.” – Flavia