Renee Rainbow, LMT (Licensed Massage Therapist), says that dry brushing provides multiple benefits to the skin.
In addition to improving the skin’s health, it can also minimize the appearance of cellulite.
There are many claims about dry brushing for cellulite. Some people say that it works while others say that it doesn’t. Dr Diane Walder says that not enough research has been done to know for sure whether or not dry brushing works for cellulite. Most evidence is anecdotal.
Does dry brushing actually work to reduce cellulite? How long does it take to see results?
Dry brushing presents a promising avenue for addressing cellulite concerns through its potential to enhance circulation and refine skin texture. Yet, its efficacy is subject to individual variation.
While sustained dry brushing, complemented by a wholesome lifestyle, may yield gradual improvements, outcomes remain unpredictable and transient. Typically, discernible changes may require several weeks or even months of diligent dry brushing.
What is the right way to dry brush for cellulite reduction? How often?
Utilize circular motions or long sweeping strokes while dry brushing, maintaining a gentle pressure to safeguard against skin irritation. Consistency reigns supreme, with an ideal frequency of 2-3 dry brushing sessions per week.
Overly vigorous or frequent brushing can provoke skin irritation or damage. Thus, it underscores the necessity of employing gentle strokes and attentively heeding your skin’s response.
Will the effects of dry brushing last, or is it only a temporary solution?
Dry brushing generally provides short-term enhancements in cellulite appearance. Although it can temporarily enhance circulation and skin texture, the benefits are fleeting.
To achieve enduring results, adopting a comprehensive approach is crucial, incorporating regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper skincare practices.
All that said, here’s how dry brushing works to change the appearance of our skin…
How Does Dry Brushing Help Cellulite?
- Brushing is an essential practice for enhancing skin health and appearance. By effectively eliminating dead skin cells, brushing facilitates the smoothing of skin texture while expediting cell renewal processes.
- Moreover, the act of dry brushing significantly boosts blood circulation to the skin, leading to tightened skin and a reduction in the appearance of cellulite-related puckers and bumps.
- Consistent skin stimulation through brushing not only promotes improved muscle tone but also aids in the gradual evening out of fat deposits.
- It’s important to note that alongside skin stimulation, strengthening muscles through regular exercise contributes significantly to achieving a toned and healthy appearance.
Dry Brushing Cellulite: It’s Not Magic
Melinda Lee, author of Sexy Over Fifty…5 Surefire Ways To Revitalize Your Mojo, explains that the key to getting rid of cellulite is consistency. In addition to healthy eating and exercise, she recommends a regular dry brushing routine to increase circulation and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
In the video below, she demonstrates her daily routine on her thighs and arms. She also shows how she brushes upwards on her neck to keep the skin looking young near her face.
What Cellulite Brush to Use?
I do not know of a specific “cellulite brush”. People typically use a dry skin brush with natural bristles (synthetic bristles can cause micro skin tears). Alternatively, you can use dry loofahs.
What the Glam Life Guru Says About Dry Brushing…
Tati Westbrook of Glam Life Guru shares her tips for using a dry brush. She admits that she starting dry brushing 5 years ago for the purpose of reducing cellulite. And she still does it…
Natural Bristle Body Brush | Skin Brush Comparison Chart
Dry Body Brushing VS Cellulite Massager:
For cellulite “removal”, some people use a cellulite massager. These small inexpensive gadgets essentially work the same way as a dry brush: they stimulate your skin, drain excess fluids and release trapped toxins.
However, you don’t use these massage tools on dry skin. Rather, you massage your cellulite while you shower – or combine them with a massage oil or cellulite oil (see below).
Note: Therefore, a cellulite massager doesn’t work as well as a dry brush for skin exfoliation. But if you don’t care about sloughing off your top layer of skin, then the plastic massage tool can save you a few bucks while reducing the dimpling on your skin.
How to Get Better Results from Dry Brushing for Cellulite:
Body brushing does not cause instant results to your skin, at least in my experience. Therefore, don’t expect to see noticeable improvements in a week.
Having said that, you can combine your daily dry brushing with an anti cellulite massage oil and speed up the process.
I was skeptical of this product, but it targets cellulite from a number of different angles. (Plus, seeing before and after photos from real customers didn’t hurt either!)
4 Special Ingredients for Cellulite:
1. First of all, this oil contains “D-limonene” which boosts the metabolism. In addition, it helps detox the lymphatic system to enhance fat burning.
2. Second, it has Vitamin C and Lycopene, which both help detoxify and cleanse the lymphatic system as well.
3. Third, it contains grapeseed oil, which works as an astringent. In other words, it tones and tightens your skin and can even minimize the appearance of scars.
4. Fourth, the eucalyptus affects fat deposits directly underneath the skin. I’m not sure exactly how this works. However, it may have something to do with how eucalyptus stimulates the immune system and reduces swelling.
Note: Many people shower and then add skin lotion after they dry body brush. Why not use an anti-cellulite oil instead to help tone, tighten and detoxify your skin instead, right? Plus, the low price might surprise you.
Pros & Cons of Using a Dry Body Brush to Get Rid of Cellulite:
Using a dry brush to reduce cellulite comes with its positives and negatives.
Advantages:
- Smoothing Skin: Dry brushing removes dead cells, making skin smoother.
- Boosted Blood Flow: It helps blood flow, lessening cellulite appearance.
- Temporarily Tighter Skin: Brushing can briefly tighten skin, reducing dimpling.
- Better Product Absorption: It may help products soak in after exfoliation.
Disadvantages:
- Short-Term Results: Effects are brief and need regular brushing to keep up.
- Skin Irritation Risk: Rough brushing or stiff bristles might harm sensitive skin.
- Not a Permanent Fix: It won’t remove cellulite completely, just improve looks.
- Discomfort Possible: Some might find dry brushing uncomfortable or harsh.
Remember, seek guidance from a dermatologist for personalized advice and avoid skin damage by using the correct technique.
Alternative Methods that Can Help Reduce Your Skin’s Appearance:
Try these approaches to reduce the look of cellulite:
- Eat Well: Choose a diet packed with fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. Cut back on sugary and processed foods to help tackle cellulite.
- Move Often: Mix up workouts with cardio and strength training to tone muscles and boost blood flow, possibly reducing cellulite.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of water and electrolytes to keep skin elastic and healthy, potentially lessening the visibility of cellulite. Hydration impacts skin elasticity and plumpness. When the body is well-hydrated, skin tends to look smoother and firmer, potentially reducing the visibility of cellulite.
- Massage It: Regularly massage problem areas to increase blood flow and lymphatic drainage, potentially minimizing cellulite appearance.
- Try Natural Remedies: Use coffee scrubs, essential oils like grapefruit or rosemary, or creams with retinol or caffeine for temporary cellulite improvement.
- Keep a Healthy Weight: Stick to a balanced weight through good eating habits and exercise to prevent worsening cellulite.
Summary:
Dry brushing may make skin feel smoother and improve blood flow, but won’t erase cellulite entirely. Brushing 2-3 times weekly, along with a healthy lifestyle, might show minor changes in cellulite over time. Removing cellulite completely is challenging, and results vary. Dry brushing is part of skincare, not a quick cellulite fix.