Overview

• Dry brushing, rooted in ancient Egyptian, Greek, Scandinavian, Indian, and Chinese traditions, has reemerged as a popular beauty regimen promoted by celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Miranda Kerr.
• Proponents claim benefits such as exfoliation, improved circulation, lymphatic drainage, and reduced cellulite appearance, though these effects lack robust scientific validation.
• Dermatologists caution that improper technique or excessive use can worsen conditions like psoriasis, dermatitis, and cause skin damage, advocating gentler alternatives like chemical exfoliants.
• Safe dry brushing involves using a firm but not overly stiff brush, brushing towards the heart on dry skin before showering, and avoiding sensitive or inflamed areas.
• Experts emphasize proper hygiene, including cleaning the brush after use, and advise beginners to limit sessions to once or twice a week to minimize potential skin irritation.