Dry brushing is a skin care method that has numerous benefits. Primarily used to stimulate your lymphatic system, dry brushing also works for cellulite removal. If you’re someone who has cellulite, you know how self-conscious it can make you feel. We have many methods to reduce its appearance, but sometimes the simplest way is the most effective.
You may know that dry brushing can smooth out your cellulite. Experts say to do it in the morning, as it has an energizing effect that prepares you for the day. There are two ways to do this. First, you can shower before you dry brush if you plan to use oil. However, if you aren’t using oils, shower after you dry brush and then apply lotion or moisturizer. Since we’re going to show you a method using oils, shower beforehand.
How Dry Brushing Helps Reduce Cellulite
This technique can mask the appearance of cellulite due to its intense exfoliation process. If you use a dry brush for one week (whether with oils or on its own), you begin to slough off the dead outer layer of your skin. In turn, this reduces the appearance of cellulite. But it doesn’t get rid of it altogether. Dry brushing should be done with caution, as there is such a thing as over-exfoliation. But don’t worry: we have remedies to soothe over-exfoliated skin.
If you don’t have cellulite, dry brushing can also prevent it from forming.
Dry Brushing with Essential Oils
There are essential oils, and then there are the best essential oils to pair with dry brushing. These oils include:
- Geranium (reduces puffy appearance in the skin)
- Rosemary (helps tighten skin)
- Cedarwood (stimulates blood circulation)
You should always dilute essential oils with carrier oils. Some of the carrier oils we recommend to help improve the appearance of your skin are argan oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, and avocado oil. We also love coconut oil. There are many oils to choose from, just make sure they agree with your skin type.
How to Dilute Essential Oils with Carrier Oils: Don’t put essential oils that haven’t been diluted onto your skin, as this will cause a reaction. Instead, do a 2% essential oil dilution. This article from aromaweb.com provides a very helpful guide on properly diluting your essential oils with your carrier oils.
How to Dry Brush
Now that you know the benefits of dry brushing for cellulite removal, and you have your essential oil mixes ready to go, let’s find out how to properly dry brush.
Even though you’re dry brushing to get rid of cellulite, don’t target just your trouble areas. Brush your entire body. Here’s how:
- Start at your feet and move the brush upwards in circular motions
- Move the brush all the way up to your chest – stop here
- Brush the back of your neck and move down in circular motions to your back
This isn’t a part of the technique but choose the correct dry brush. Experts recommend using a dry brush with natural bristles and a handle, like this dry skin body brush on Amazon. You can also purchase one with a longer handle to more effectively target your back.
Dry brushing is a skincare method that you can perform daily – even twice daily. So enjoy and go about it safely.
