I started to dry brush when I read on the internet that it removes toxins from your skin (the body's largest organ) and therefore helps to prevent breakouts. So I figured, hey, taking five minutes every night to brush my skin before showering can't hurt right? And so that's what I did. Now, dry skin brushing is part of my daily routine and I love it!

I'm not sure if dry skin brushing actually removes any toxins from your skin, but I do know that it helps to improve circulation in your lymphatic system. Some people also say that long-term dry skin brushing firms up skin and reduces cellulite, however I have yet to witness those claims. *jiggle jiggle*

Basically, all you need to dry brush is a natural-bristled brush (synthetic fibers can cause small scratches on the surface of your skin). You can find cheap ones from Wal-Mart, Ulta....pretty much anywhere. Now, there are some brushes that are labeled as "detox" brushes, but don't be fooled! These can cost upwards of $20, but all you need is a simple $4 brush. (One of the reasons I don't like to spend a lot of money on brushes is because I find that a new brush will lose it's stiffness after a few months of use. I've been using the same brush for almost a year and I think after a few more months, I'm going to have to retire it for a new, stiffer one.)

You just have to make sure that the brush has stiff, yet flexible bristles. You don't want a brush that's very soft because otherwise you would get zero exfoliating effects. Besides the stiffness of the bristles, before you buy a brush, tug on the bristles a bit to see if they come out easily. If they do, then find yourself a better brush. If you don't buy a brush with sturdily rooted bristles, the hairs will fall out during dry brushing and eventually you'll be left with bald spots!

There are also brushes with short and long handles. I prefer the long-handled brushes with a detachable head. The detachable brushes are more ergonomic for brushing your limbs, but the long handles make brushing the back and buttocks less of a pretzel-fest. (Note: Even if you attach the head back onto the handle, sometimes detachable brushes will fall off on their own if you are dry brushing more vigorously.)

Anyway, to dry skin brush, you gently brush your skin starting from your outer limbs, moving towards the heart. I've read some places say that you should dry brush in long, sweeping motions, but I like to brush in small counter-clockwise circles. It's also best to dry brush standing in the shower since you'll be shedding lots of skin cells!

When you first start brushing, be extra gentle until your skin (which may turn slightly red) can handle more pressure. I start by brushing the bottom of my feet, then the top, my lower leg, then upper leg, hands, and then arms. I brush my stomach in a clockwise motion, then breasts, neck, and shoulders (very gently!). I finish by brushing my buttocks and back and follow up with a nice shower. Note: As the name implies, make sure you dry brush on DRY skin.

Dry skin brushing is GREAT exfoliation! I used to have keratosis pilaris (tiny bumps like chicken skin) on my legs and the back of my upper arms, but now my body skin is smooth and soft. I don't get any more ingrown hairs on my legs, even after shaving or waxing. My overall body skin looks very even and bright.

Sadly, I don't think dry skin brushing does anything for acne!

Also, make sure you wash your brush and hang it out to dry at least once a week. =)