From boosting circulation to allegedly reducing cellulite, dry brushing is one of beauty’s most enduring rituals. But how do you actually do it? Two experts share their advice.
If you’re remotely into beauty, you’ve likely seen dry brushing all over your social media feeds.
It’s an ancient practice, with roots in Ayurvedic medicine, that’s gaining popularity in Western skincare routines.
With promises of smoother skin and decreased puffiness through lymphatic drainage, it’s no surprise more and more people are hopping on the trend.
But how do you do it properly, and what are the best brushes to use? L360 shares advice straight from the experts.
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What are the benefits of dry brushing?
At its core, dry brushing is a form of exfoliation. You simply swipe a firm-bristled brush across your skin in long, slow strokes.
According to Dr Anatalia Moore, NHS GP and aesthetic doctor, “Exfoliation is the main science-backed advantage to this wellness habit. It dislodges dead skin cells, revealing brighter and smoother skin.”
Dry brushing is also believed by many to increase circulation and lymphatic drainage, and even to reduce cellulite.
However, Dr Moore notes that “much of this is anecdotal. There’s very limited true research backing benefits like cellulite reduction”.
That being said, she says stimulation of the skin can temporarily increase blood flow — hence the glow.
Should you dry brush before or after showering?
Always before. As Dr Moore puts it, “Damp skin that has just undergone exposure to heat or products is much more likely to experience trauma.”
Dry brushing before you shower helps prevent irritation and allows your body wash to rinse off dislodged dead skin.
Shireen Forster, founder of hair removal clinic Laser Me Out, who offers dry brushing before any treatment, agrees: “After a shower, your skin can become softer and more sensitive, so brushing at that point could lead to irritation.”
If you must brush after, she recommends waiting at least an hour.
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Should you dry brush in the morning or evening?
There’s no universal rule here — only what works for your lifestyle.
Dr Moore says the choice is personal: “You could argue the invigorating benefits lend themselves to morning, but it’s equally mindful and relaxing at night.”
However, Shireen is firmly on team morning: “It gives me that extra boost of confidence to start my day.”
Should you use any products during or after dry brushing?
Not during. Both experts agree that the skin should be clean, dry and free of product before brushing to avoid clogging pores or disrupting exfoliation.
Afterwards, though, is the perfect time to nourish your skin.
Dr Moore recommends applying a moisturiser with ingredients that support the skin barrier — think ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, panthenol and fatty acids. These lock in moisture and help minimise irritation.
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What dry brushes do you recommend?
Brush choice matters more than you think.
“The ideal bristle of choice is of natural plant-based origin, rather than synthetic,” says Dr Moore.
Softer bristles like jute or Tampico fibre are gentler, while firmer options like boar hair offer a deeper exfoliation — but may be too harsh for sensitive skin.
Shireen, however, stands by synthetic. Her brand’s brushes are “vegan, cruelty-free and made with synthetic polypropylene fibre to gently exfoliate without causing irritation”.
She also recommends looking for bamboo or beech wood handles, which are both sustainable and durable.
Are there any skin conditions where you should avoid dry brushing?
Not all skin types benefit from brushing and in some cases, it may do more harm than good.
Dr Moore cautions against it for “very dehydrated skin, eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis”. The friction can worsen inflammation or even trigger new lesions.
Additionally, skin that’s been exposed to sun, recent shaving or active ingredients like acids and retinoids may be too sensitive for brushing. As Shireen notes, “If your skin is tender or peeling after sun exposure, it’s best to give it time to heal.”
And don’t forget the brush itself. “Brush bristles are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria,” says Dr Moore. Regular cleaning is essential, particularly if your skin barrier is compromised.
Rinse it gently, let it air-dry with the bristles facing up and avoid storing it in damp environments, such as your bathroom.
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How do you dry brush? Step-by-step guide:
- Start at your feet and brush upwards in long, firm strokes toward the heart.
- Use lighter pressure on delicate areas, such as the stomach, and firmer pressure on tougher spots, such as the feet.
- Avoid the face, underarms and intimate areas.
- Brush two to three times a week — any more may lead to irritation.
- Clean your brush regularly and replace it when the bristles start to fray.
L360’s top dry brush picks
EPSA Skin Stimulating Body Brush
Made with soft bristles from Mexican cactus plants, it boosts blood flow and encourages cell renewal, helping your skin feel smoother and softer, and look more radiant.
Mama Mio Body Brush
For those seeking synthetic materials, the Mio brush makes a great budget option.
It’s crafted from polypropylene fibre bristles for an effective yet gentle exfoliation.
Buy from LookFantastic for £5 (at time of writing).
Hydrea London Combination Detox Massage Brush
This brush not only exfoliates, but the built-in rubber nodules massage your skin for a proper at-home pamper session.
Buy from LookFantastic for £11.99.
Feature image: Freepik
