What’s the Hype About Body Brushing and How Does It Benefit the Skin?
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You’ve probably heard of body brushing and can probably imagine what it entails – the name kind of gives it away.
But why do experts say we should do it? How does it benefit the skin? And does it help any other areas of the body that we may not realise?
Here, dermatologist Dr Hannah Kopelman answers all your questions on body brushing, and I let you in on the three best body brushes I’ve tested since becoming a beauty editor 17 years ago.
What is body brushing?
Otherwise known as ‘dry brushing’, Dr Kopelman says it’s for exfoliation. “It’s something I recommend to patients who are looking for a gentle at-home exfoliation method,” she explains. “It’s done using a firm-bristled brush on dry skin, usually before showering, and it helps remove dead skin cells.”
How does it benefit the skin?
Imagine how good the skin on your face feels after exfoliating. It’s the same for the skin on your body too. “I like to explain to patients that body brushing helps leave the skin smoother and softer,” Dr Kopelman says. “It’s also great for increasing circulation, which can help give the skin a healthier glow.”
Does it benefit anything else in the body?
According to Dr Kopelman, yes it does. “There’s more to body brushing than just skin benefits,” she says. “It’s believed to support lymphatic drainage, which can help the body detoxify itself. Some patients also tell me they feel more energized after dry brushing—it’s a great way to kickstart your day!”
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How to use a body brush
“I always recommend brushing in long, upward strokes toward the heart,” Dr Kopelman explains. “This helps with circulation and lymphatic flow. Brushing in circular motions can be a bit too harsh on the skin, so stick to those upward strokes for the best results.”
Some people prefer to use their body brush in the shower (in which case it would not be called ‘dry brushing’) for that added cleansing element, however, you get better exfoliation results when using the brush dry.
My top 3 body brushes
Elemis Body Detox Skin Brush (£28/$45) is great for those wanting to reach down their back as it has a detachable (and super long) handle. The bristles are soft, so the brush is comfortable to use but it also does a great job of smoothing the skin.
Legology Lymph-Lite Dry Body Brush (£16/$22) has a handy strap that you can fit your hand into. This makes it easier to control where you’re brushing and enables you to move in consistent and even upwards motions.
Love My Skin Luxury Sonic Body Brush (£99). And then there’s the electrical kind – if you’re into that sort of thing. This one is for use in the shower and has three attachments – a silicone cleansing brush, loofah and hard skin remover for the feet. It feels quite strange at first but you get used to it and it’s just a more efficient way of body brushing if you’re in a hurry.
Legology Lymph-Lite Dry Body Brush. Image – Legology
The takeaway
So, body brushing benefits you from the inside, out. First and foremost your skin is smoothed and renewed, whilst your circulation is improved and lymphatic drainage supported.
Give both wet and dry methods a go – you’ll experience quite different results with each – but either way, investing in a body brush will have your skin-smoothing needs covered.
Meet the expert
Dr Hannah Kopelman is a dermatologist at Kopelman Hair Restoration.
Get Glowing!
