09/03/2025
Add this to your wellness routine!
✨ Dry Brushing: A Powerful Tool for Lymphatic Flow and Skin Health
🩵 This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new health practices, especially during pregnancy or if you have a medical condition.
🧬 What Is Dry Brushing?
Dry brushing is the practice of using a firm, natural-bristle brush on dry skin in sweeping strokes — typically toward the heart — before bathing. While often linked with beauty routines, it holds deeper therapeutic value, especially for the lymphatic and circulatory systems.
🌿 How Dry Brushing Supports the Lymphatic System
Unlike the heart, your lymphatic system doesn’t have its own pump. It relies on body movement, breath, and external stimulation to move lymph — the clear fluid that carries immune cells, proteins, and metabolic waste products out of your tissues.
Dry brushing provides gentle mechanical stimulation of the superficial lymph vessels. This encourages movement of lymph through the capillaries and toward the larger drainage ducts, particularly around the axillary (armpit) and inguinal (groin) nodes.
📚 Research-Backed Benefits
✅ Stimulates Lymphatic Drainage
• Gentle skin stimulation mimics the effects of manual lymph drainage (MLD), supporting lymphangiomotor activity — the rhythmic contractions of lymphatic vessels.
• Reference: Leduc O., et al. Int J Rehabil Res, 1998.
✅ Improves Blood Circulation
• Brushing increases capillary blood flow and enhances vascular function, improving nutrient delivery and removal of cellular waste.
• Reference: Moraska A., et al. J Altern Complement Med, 2005.
✅ Exfoliates & Nourishes the Skin
• Removes dead skin cells and supports healthy epidermal turnover.
• Enhances absorption of nourishing oils or lotions applied afterward.
✅ May Temporarily Reduce Cellulite Appearance
• By promoting lymphatic drainage and microcirculation, dry brushing may reduce fluid retention and create a smoother skin texture.
• Reference: Avram MM. J Cosmet Laser Ther, 2004.
✅ Supports the Nervous System
• Repetitive, light brushing activates skin mechanoreceptors, which may calm the nervous system and support vagus nerve balance.
🔁 How to Dry Brush: Step-by-Step
1. Choose the Right Brush
➤ Natural bristles, firm but not scratchy. Long handle optional for back.
2. Brush on Dry Skin Before Showering
➤ Best done in the morning for energy.
3. Use Long, Upward Strokes
➤ Always brush toward the heart.
➤ Start at the feet and move upward. Use circular strokes on joints, gentle strokes on chest and neck.
4. Brush for 3–5 Minutes
➤ Never on broken, inflamed, or sunburned skin.
5. Shower & Moisturize
➤ Rinse exfoliated skin and apply a pure oil such as jojoba, coconut, or calendula-infused oil.
🚫 When to Avoid Dry Brushing
• Active infections or fever
• Open wounds, eczema, psoriasis flare-ups
• Varicose veins or fragile capillaries (brush around, not over)
• Pregnancy (avoid abdominal area unless guided by a professional)
💚 Dry Brushing + Lymphatic Therapy = Flow, Energy, Glow
When combined with manual lymph drainage, infrared sauna, or an anti-inflammatory diet, dry brushing becomes more than a skin ritual — it becomes a low-cost, at-home ally in your complete lymphatic care plan.
🌸 Final Thoughts
Dry brushing isn’t just a beauty trend. It’s a simple, science-informed tool that:
✨ Awakens your skin
✨ Boosts lymphatic and circulatory flow
✨ Promotes connection with your body
A few mindful minutes each day can spark flow, energy, and a gentle reminder: your body is designed to heal, and you can support it.
Bianca Botha, CLT, RLD, MLDT & CDS
Certified Lymphoedema Therapist
Lymphatica – Lymphatic Therapy & Body Detox Facility
