Dry Brushing Techniques & Benefits

The skin is our body's largest organ. It eliminates over one pound of acid waste per day in the average adult. It's responsible for 1/4 of our body's detoxification each day. And even though it's the last organ to receive nutrients, it's the FIRST to show signs of imbalance and deficiency!
So, it is only logical to treat our skin the best way we can!

DRY BRUSHING helps detoxify your body of its toxic wastes. It helps stimulate detoxification in your kidneys, glands, and transportation systems. As a result, dry brushing may help minimize cellulite due to fluid retention.

*Remember to brush TOWARDS your heart, as it is the goal to push fluids towards your heart, since the heart will be detoxifying your system.

STEPS:

1) Buy a soft, natural bristled brush


2) Starting from the feet, brush your skin upwards in small circles (to direct fluids and toxins towards your heart), avoiding cuts, rashes, and sensitive or thin skin such as your inner thighs and face.

3) After you're done with both of your legs, start brushing your arms starting at your fingertips. Gently brush up your arms in small circles again.

4) When you are finished with both arms, begin brushing your back at the nape of your neck, brushing downwards towards your heart.

5) Afterward, begin from your stomach to your heart. Brush your chest in small circles as you push fluids to your heart.

6) Take a shower! (You will have shed skin cells during the process and as a consequence, your skin will feel smoother too!)


This entire process should take approximately 10-15 minutes.

I find that waking up in the morning and immediately drybrushing feels invigorating :]

Happy dry brushing

Maintaining Clear Skin

Not everybody has the money to splurge on a dermatologist, so here are simple ways to treat and maintain your skin, especially if you are acne-prone :

1) Use a gentle cleanser
2) Use a facial brush
3) Invest in a toner
4) Treat your acne with either Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide
5) Exfoliate with a scrub once or twice a week
6) Moisturize with a non-comodogenic (non-pore clogging), oil-free moisturizer
7) Nourish your skin with a face mask once a week


1) Cleansers

A common misconception that many people with acne-prone skin have is to use the harshest cleanser they can buy. It is important to treat your skin gently without irritating it any further. The point of a cleanser is to wash off the impurities that you've accumulated throughout the day without stripping your skin of its moisture and pH balance.


Aveeno's Positively Radiant Cleanser
Price: $7.99 (CVS)

-It has a gentle scent that isn't overpowering and disappears upon rinsing your face
-1-2 pumps will suffice as you don't need much for this to effectively cleanse off dirt, oil, and makeup
-Has a rich soy-extract to even out skin tone that won't over-dry your skin either
-Hypoallergenic, soap-free, oil-free, and noncomodegenic

Aveeno's Foaming Cleanser Ultra-Calming
Price: $7.99 (CVS)

-Great for acne-prone, sensitive skin with Rosacea
-Won't over-dry, extremely gentle (customized to tailor sensitive skin)
-Fragrance-free (perfect for those prone to skin irritations and breakouts due to fragrances), hypoallergenic, noncomodegenic, and soap-free


Decleor Cleansing Milk
Price: $36.00 (SEPHORA)

-Has a pleasant floral scent that will make you feel like you're pampering yourself each time you wash your face
-Has a thick consistency that will not over-dry
-Perfect for those with sensitive skin, Rosacea, dryness, and combination skin
-Will not leave a residue
-Effective in removing makeup
-Especially great for cold seasons

2) Facial Brush

Using a facial brush while cleansing your face will loosen and decrease the amount of dead skin cells on your face, which in turn will decrease the amount of acne (due to clogged pores).
With DAILY use, the facial brush will improve circulation on your skin, helping it become more receptive to skin treatments and moisturizers.
Your complexion will be noticeably healthier and radiant.


Round Handle Facial Brush
Price: $3.00 (The Body Shop)

-The bristles are soft enough to not damage your skin, but strong enough to be effective in unclogging pores of oil and dirt
-Suitable for all skin types
-Nylon bristles and 100% vegetarian
-CHEAP
-Small and convenient for travel

Note: Wash this everyday with soap and water before or after using this. An easy way to do this is to first rub your cleanser into the palm of your hand, apply the cleanser to your face, and then swirl and cleanse your brush with the remaining cleanser in your palm. Afterward, rinse it under warm water to rid of makeup and dirt before using it on your face.

3) Toner

Many claim that using a toner is moot, but toning the skin cleanses your skin from leftover impurities that your cleanser may have missed. Toners also have the ability to soften and tighten pores, prepping your skin for treatment and moisturizers.

Wise Woman Softening Toner
Price: $17.50 (The Body Shop)

-Effective in softening skin and tightening pores
-Extremely beneficial and moisturizing to those with dry skin
-Ingredient include witch hazel, a natural astringent which also decreases puffiness
-Soy oil helps stimulate cell turnover and maintain collagen levels

Note: Instead of applying this with a cotton pad, you may squeeze a dime-sized amount into the palm of your hand, rub it into your face in circular motions , and gently pat it into your skin to stimulate circulation.


Shiseido Benefiance Balancing Softener
Price: $42.00 (SEPHORA)

-Recommended for dry/combination skin
-Helps moisturizer absorb better. Will help eliminate oil and dry patches
-Ginseng extracts, chlorella extract, and Bio-Hyaluronic complex help soothe and soften skin
-Improves skin texture with daily use
-The bottle's small opening prevents wasted product



Nivea Visage Moisturizing Toner
Price: $6.99 + Free Shipping (DermStore.com)

-This product is no longer being carried in most stores, which is extremely unfortunate because this was the best toner I have ever used
-Does not contain alcohol
-Very moisturizing -water and Glycerin are it's first two ingredients-but, it is still suitable for oily skin
-Contains calming and soothing agents such as chamomile and aloe
-Extremely effective at cleaning off excess dirt and makeup

4) Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide

Salicylic Acid (SA) is a beta hydroxy that unclogs pores, aiding in preventing acne
It works as a keratolytic, by thinning, loosening and shedding the skin that is being treating
Because it is a beta hydroxy, it may be used in conjunction with Glycolic Acid, Sulfur, and Retinol without negating the effects.

Benzoyl Peroxide (BP) is effective by working as a peeling agent, increasing cell turnover, clearing the pores, and oxidizing skin. The ingredients kill acne-causing bacteria, preventing pimples from arising in the future. Some users may experience initial drying and sensitivity within the first week or so, but most build a tolerance after a week. Do not use with Retinol, for it negates the effects of both treatments.

Clean & Clear's Invisible Blemish Treatment-Maximum Strength .75oz
Price: $6.49 (Clean&Clear.com)

-Apply after cleansing and toning, and moisturize right after to avoid dryness
-If your acne is not too severe, it may be best to apply this on at night as the clear and shiny formula may accentuate acne during the daytime
-Salicylic Acid 2%



Clean & Clear's Persa-gel 10
Price: $5.99 (CVS)

-Most effective drugstore acne prevention treatment for those with severer acne problems
-Use this twice a day after cleansing and toning
-Must use a good moisturizer in conjunction due to its drying effects
-Great as an over-night spot treatment
-It is wise to gradually build a tolerance by first using it sparingly and increasing the amount used over time
-10% Benzoyl Peroxide

5) Exfoliation

Exfoliating is an important part of your skincare routine. It helps maintain skin brightness, softness, tone, complexion, and helps eliminate dead skin cells. You should only exfoliate once or twice a week to avoid irritation.

It is important to note that you should always use micro refined crystals as opposed to large jagged exfoliants such as St. Ive's exfoliator. Large and jagged exfoliants will damage and irritate your skin, and may even exacerbate acne. REMEMBER, you must be GENTLE with your skin in order for your skin to improve.


Vitamin C Micro Refiner
Price: $25.00 (The Body Shop)

-The 2.5 fl oz. bottle is worth the price since it lasts you for a long time
-A pea-sized amount is sufficient enough to exfoliate your entire face
-Micro refined crystals are gentle enough to not damage your skin
-Vitamin C encourages production of collagen
-Shea butter increases softness and smoothness

6) Moisturizers

Moisturizing is one of the most crucial parts of your skin regimen. A moisturizer that is not comodogenic will clog your pores and will most likely break out sensitive skin. The right moisturizer for the right climate and skin type is imperative to maintaining clear skin.

Amore Pacific Moisture Bound Refreshing Hydra-Gel Oil-Free
Price: $100.00 (SEPHORA)
(This is hands down the best moisturizer I have ever used)

-The oil-free gel does not clog pores, nor does it leave the greasy residue that most moisturizers leave behind
-Will still leave skin FULLY moisturized even in conjunction with Clean&Clear's persa gel, which dries out skin
-Is not fragrance free (the scent is pretty strong)
-Perfect for humid climates

Clinique's Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief Gel-Creme
Price: $34.00-$46.50 (SEPHORA)

-This is a cheaper alternative to Amore Pacific's gel, however this is not as hydrating
-The gels glides onto your skin and neither leaves it greasy nor heavy
-Very suitable to mix your foundation into as a tinted moisturizer
-Can be used under or over makeup or as a moisture mask
-Oil-Free - is unlikely to cause breakouts


Ponds Dry Skin Cream
Price: $4.99 (CVS)

-The mineral oil in this cream allows this cream to be sold cheaper
-Extremely moisturizing for dry skin
-Preferably for more arid and dry climates
-Will not clog pores
-For those who find it too greasy, you can use this as a basic eye cream

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream For Face SPF 55
Price: $34.00 (SEPHORA)

-Water and perspiration resistant
-Leaves skin feeling softer with its retexturizing ingredients and antioxidants
-Leaves no white residue or stickiness
-The most important thing is that it helps protect you face from sun and cell damage and dryness
-Best for combination/oily skin
-Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation

7) Face Masks

Face masks are important in giving your skin that extra oomph! When used once a week, your skin's complexion and overall health will improve.
DDF Sulfur Therapeutic Mask Sulfur 10% Acne Treatment
Price: $38.00 (SEPHORA)

-This is perfect for people who have acne-prone skin
-The sulfur, aloe vera, purified clay, and aromatic extracts help your skin's clarity and softness
-It can also be used as an over-night spot treatment for acne
-This product is great for oily-skin as it helps control oil production and helps clean pores
-The price may be daunting, but a little goes a long way, so it is a great steal


Chanel Precision Mask Force Hydratante
Price: $49.95 (Amazon.com)

-It is a hydrating creamy gel
-Great for those who work in air conditioned/heated environments because it will help control your skin in dryer climates
-Suitable for sensitive - dry skin
-Gentle fragrance (peaches/apricot)
-Plumps skin and leaves it moisturized for an extended period of time



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Although this information may seem a lot to absorb, the effects (if done on a DAILY basis) are worth it! I have helped a lot of people who have come to me with complaints of acne and a poor complexion, and with a strict adherence to these tips, their skin has literally transformed in a month.

Be diligent, patient, and you will see results!

-JS