There is no proof dry brushing your skin reduces cellulite or the appearance of cellulite — this claim isn't supported by any scientific evidence. “It's likely that what people interpret as cellulite reduction is really just a temporary plumping up of the skin from increased blood circulation,” Dr. Khetarpal says.
How Often Should You Dry Brush? Some devotees tout that, with regular dry brushing of two to four times per week, the skin appears smoother and firmer, thus reducing the overall appearance of cellulite in the short term. .
Spend around 5-10 minutes to dry brush the whole body and make sure you're applying only light pressure. This will ensure you're not damaging the skin but are encouraging gentle exfoliation.
Across the board, all of the experts stress that you need to make a commitment. Engelman suggests beginning with three days a week and building up to a daily brushing. You might notice a difference after the first session, but for the most dramatic results, you need to give it two weeks.
A combination of exercise, diet and treatments can reduce the appearance of cellulite. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also approved several treatments for cellulite, including Cellfina®, Cellulaze® and Qwo®. These can improve the appearance of dimples on your skin.
Minimise the appearance of cellulite through exfoliation and moisturising. The benefits of scrubbing and rubbing includes smoother skin texture and tone, which can help make your cellulite less obvious. My body scrubs are made with natural oils to soften, hydrate and plump skin, leaving you more dewy and less dimply.
According to the same study, dry brushing is a big no-no. The breaks in your skin can lead to cuts or wounds, especially if you're using a coarse brush and your skin is sensitive. You should also avoid brushing over an open wound. That could potentially cause an infection.
There are a lot of opinions on this one. While it is safe to practice dry body brushing daily, it's definitely not recommended. The last thing you want to do is over-brush and negate all the good stuff you're doing for your skin. Once or twice a week should be sufficient enough to see and feel results.
Dry brushing tightens the skin and assists in gentle detoxification that helps to break up that toxic fat buildup. Again, this results in a reduced appearance of cellulite. Some dry brushers have even noticed a reduction in the appearance of stretch marks, due to the skin tightening effects of dry brushing.
While cellulite cannot be removed completely, the appearance of cellulite can be lessened. One of the best parts of a cellulite massage is that the results are immediate. Not only will your skin tone look smoother, but it will feel softer too.
“Do not use dry brush or cloth on skin that's broken. This includes cuts, scrapes, lesions, sores or burned skin, including sunburns,” she adds. “Don't ever brush over areas of infection, redness or general irritation, inflammation, cellulitis or skin cancer. Stop dry brushing if skin becomes irritated or inflamed.”
Most experts recommend dry brushing in the morning rather than before bed because they believe it has invigorating qualities.
No, you don't have to shower after dry body brushing unless you'd like to, so you can do it any time of day.
Just like over-exfoliation can wreak havoc on your face, too much dry brushing can on the rest of your body. “Brushing too hard or too frequently may leave the skin irritated and may even cause abrasions,” says Dr. Hayre.
We join many dentists in recommending our patients add dry brushing to their oral hygiene routine. Dry brushing will ensure optimal oral health.
Dry brushing is popular in the alternative health community, but it is not a routine recommendation among dermatologists. Some dermatologists may recommend dry brushing as a way of exfoliating the body, but as there is no strong evidence it is superior to any other form of exfoliation, it is not typically a priority.
However, avoid dry brushing skin affected by eczema, psoriasis, acne, infection, sunburn, cancer, moles, warts, or open wounds, Haasl-Blilie says. People with sensitive skin may want to use a soft natural bristle brush and be especially careful not to apply too much pressure.
The Kardashian sisters (Khloe, Kim and Kourtney) are reported to rely on the advanced technology of Syneron Candela's VelaShape III treatment to diminish the cottage-cheese-like appearance cellulite can have on their skin.
However, weight changes, poor nutrition, dehydration, lack of muscle tone, smoking, and poor skin health are factors you have some control over and may worsen cellulite. Exercise and eating well help you maintain a healthy weight and muscle tone.
Exercise Smart
It won't make your cellulite disappear, but strong muscles under lumpy areas can make your skin look more even. Try a three-part plan: a healthy diet, brisk exercise, and moves that tone your muscles.