Kerr has considered the practice part of her routine for over 10 years, writing on her KORA Organics blog that it’s “a great way to get the circulation going, remove dead skin cells, aid lymphatic drainage, detoxify your system and keep your skin smooth all over.”
Paltrow seconds these sentiments, telling Redbook, “I do it every night before I get in the bath. It's fantastic for circulation and it helps smooth cellulite.” Her wellness brand Goop, also stocks a dry body brush of its own online.
Intrigued? We asked Holistic Nutrionist, Monica Caligiuri, to give us some further intel and tips for trying it at home…
What is dry body brushing?
Named aptly, dry body brushing is exactly what it sounds like.
“It’s the practice of brushing the body with a bristle brush, to stimulate lymphatic drainage and release excess toxins from the body via the skin,” explains Cailguri.
“The skin is the body’s largest detoxification organ, and so, dry body brushing assists it in this function.”
What are the benefits of dry body brushing?
The elimination of toxins is a big one, but Cailguri tells Marie Claire other benefits include, “smoother skin, clearer skin and increased circulation.”
As for the reduction in cellulite that Paltrow claims, this is attributed to the detoxification, lymphatic drainage and increased circulation, helping to break down the fat deposits that cause dimpling of the skin.
How to dry body brush
For first-timers, Cailguri suggests trying out the method in the morning, before your shower.
“Start with firm upward strokes from the feet moving up to the legs, torso, arms and neck,” she says. Keeping all movement heading towards your heart is always a good rule of thumb.
The only place you would change your stroke direction from upwards is for the stomach; “brush your belly area in a clockwise direction, to aid good digestion and elimination.”
What should you do after dry body brushing?
Similar to a sauna, dry body brushing is best followed by a shower to wash away toxins, as well as any dry skin.
“It’s also a good idea to follow with a body oil to moisturise, and remember to keep hydration up (two litres of water daily), to assist the body’s detoxification process.”
Hydrea Vegan Dry Body Brush, $39.95 at nourishedlife.com.au
Manicare Dry Body Brush, $16.99 at manicare.com.au
The Body Shop Cactus Handle Brush, $19 at thebodyshop.com
