Skip or stick? Dry brushing in summer safely

Dry brushing is one of those latest beauty fads that pops up every so often, claiming to give you smoother, soft skin, along with several other health benefits. But with each new beauty trend, we have to look into the facts and ask ourselves, is it even safe? Don’t worry, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about dry brushing for skin, and whether it’s worth adding to your beauty routine especially in the summer. 

What is dry brushing?

Dry brushing involves using a brush with natural bristles to gently exfoliate your skin while it is dry. The areas it mostly targets are your legs, arms, back, and possibly even your stomach, as you use long, sweeping motions towards the heart, which is said to improve circulation and eliminate dead skin cells and provide a glowing skin finish. 

One of the most widely touted benefits of dry brushing is exfoliation (Credit: Freepik)

What are the benefits?

One of the most widely touted benefits of dry brushing is exfoliation. When you dry brush regularly, you help buff away dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface of your skin, revealing a smoother and more glowing complexion. The act of dry brushing also helps to pull dirt and excess oil from the skin, and for those with body acne or dry patches of skin, this could make a difference. 

Another important benefit of dry brushing is increased circulation. As you brush, you are stimulating blood flow to the surface of your skin; this can result in healthier skin with increased energy levels. This also contributes to your skin cells receiving oxygen and nutrients more effectively to promote healthier skin in the long term. 

Often overlooked, but dry brushing can be beneficial for lymphatic drainage. The lymphatic system helps the body expel toxins and dry brushing stimulates the system through its natural detoxing process, allowing you to feel refreshed.

Is it safe for your skin?

Dry brushing could be beneficial, but it's not for everyone, so there are a few things to consider. First, dry brushing should always be done softly. If you press too hard, or use a stiff bristle brush, you could irritate your skin, cause redness or lead to microtears, which can exacerbate things like eczema or rosacea.

If you have sensitive skin, active acne, or broken skin, dry brushing may be too abrasive and make things worse. Always do a patch test first to ensure you don't have a negative reaction. If you have an identified skin condition like eczema, psoriasis, or sunburn the safest option may be to avoid dry brushing altogether or check-in with your dermatologist before trying the method. 

Dry brushing could be beneficial, but it's not for everyone, so there are a few things to consider. First, dry brushing should always be done softly. (Credit: Freepik)

Is dry brushing safe in the hot weather?

Summer comes with different challenges for your skin, like sunburn, sweat, and a lot of environmental exposure. Here is where dry brushing can be a great help, softening sun-damaged skin and sloughing off dead cells which could be blocking your pores due to sweat or sunscreen. Yet, you have to take extra care. Dry brushing over a sunburned or otherwise compromised skin is very irritating, so you would never want to do that after spending a day in the sun.

Additionally, you may start to see more body acne or ingrown hairs in summer, and while dry brushing helps exfoliate skin and clear pores, in the summer heat, if you over brush you could just add to more skin dryness/sensitivity. 

So, take it easy and keep the sessions short, then put on a good moisturizer!