Dry Brushing Recipe

Choose brush and position

Select a natural bristle dry brush with a comfortable handle or long strap for hard-to-reach areas. Stand barefoot on a towel (to catch dead skin) and have moisturizer and towel within arm's reach.

Check skin and timing

Perform dry brushing on clean, dry skin. Avoid areas with broken skin, rashes, sunburn, inflamed acne, varicose veins, or sensitive skin. Do dry brushing once daily, preferably before showering and before applying moisturizer.

Start at feet and hands

Begin at one foot. Using gentle, brisk strokes, brush upwards toward the heart. Use long sweeping motions on the legs, and smaller strokes for hands and arms. Keep brush pressure medium — enough to stimulate but not to irritate. Brush each area 5–10 times.

Legs

Brush the soles, then the top of the foot, moving up the calf and thigh. Always brush in the direction of the heart (upwards). Repeat 5–10 passes per section, overlapping slightly as you move upward.

Arms

Starting at the fingers, brush up the palm and the top of the hand, then along the forearm toward the shoulder. Use light to medium pressure and 5–10 strokes per section, finishing at the armpit area to encourage lymph movement toward the torso.

Torso and abdomen

Use clockwise circular motions on the abdomen (following the direction of the colon) with light pressure. For the chest and décolletage, use outward and upward strokes away from the center of the body toward the shoulders and collarbones.

Back and shoulders

If you have a long-handled brush or a partner, brush from the lower back up toward the shoulders, and from the shoulders toward the neck. Use moderate strokes and avoid the spine — instead brush on either side of it.

Neck and face (optional, with softer brush)

If you choose to brush the face, use a very soft brush and extremely light pressure. Sweep from the center of the face outward and down toward the neck, 3–5 gentle strokes per area. Alternatively, skip facial brushing and use a dedicated facial brush.

Duration

Total brushing time is typically 5–15 minutes depending on thoroughness and areas covered. Aim for consistent, rhythmic strokes without over-brushing any one area.

Shower (optional)

After dry brushing, shower to rinse away loosened dead skin. Use warm water and gentle cleanser if desired. Pat skin dry with a towel; do not rub vigorously.

Moisturize

While skin is still slightly damp, apply 2 tablespoons of your chosen moisturizer or body oil evenly over the body to hydrate and soothe the skin.

Clean brush

Periodically clean the brush by tapping out loose skin in a sink, and every 1–2 weeks wash bristles with a mild soap and warm water. Allow brush to air dry bristles-down or hanging to prevent mildew.

Frequency and precautions

Perform dry brushing 3–7 times per week depending on skin sensitivity. Stop immediately if you notice irritation, redness, or broken skin. Consult a healthcare provider if you have circulatory issues, diabetes, or other conditions before dry brushing.