There is nothing quite like a good scrub or exfoliation ritual to brighten up the skin and the senses. Whenever I feel a bit run down and my skin is looking a little lack-lustre, I treat myself to a good facial scrub and some dry body brushing. It is a wonderful way to wake up the skin and the senses and leaves you feeling a little lighter, brighter and more energised. More please!
Gentle exfoliation first and foremost, encourages healthy blood flow and circulation. With a healthy circulation comes improved lymphatic drainage and a plentiful supply of oxygen and essential nutrients. The physical action of exfoliation removes old and lingering dead skin cells, allowing your newer, fresher skin to shine through. Dry brushing will leave you feeling invigorated and awake!
- Simply choose a body brush with gentle but firm bristles. Use the brush to gently sweep over your skin in sweeping, circular motions.
- Start at your feet, moving up over your legs, taking time to brush several times over each area. Don’t be too harsh, remember to keep it kind and gentle.
- Move your brush up the body, taking care to avoid sensitive areas, going a little more gently over the stomach.
- Next, brush your arms, from the fingers towards the heart.
- If you have a long handled body brush, apply some nice long strokes to the back as well.
- Next you’ll need to jump in the shower and allow warm water (not too hot!) to wash it all away.
- After your shower, your skin will be eagerly awaiting a nourishing moisturiser. Choose a body or massage oil blend to feed your skin and keep that natural glow going.
Here are my all time favourite moisturisers for post-exfoliation:
Kalahari Watermelon Body Oil – this is my first choice. Warm a little oil in the palm of your hand and apply all over the body. This is made with a delightful blend of invigorating citrus oils and skin soothing watermelon seed oil. I like to use this during the summer for it’s fragrance and for it’s fantastic moisturising qualities. It’s also my oil of choice for any large areas of neglected skin (ahem, thighs?!) and any lumpy or bumpy areas.
Kalahari Watermelon Body Moisturiser – this is a little bit richer than the body oil but with the same delicious aroma! I use this rich and creamy body moisturiser to tackle more stubborn areas on my body, such as knees and elbows and any skin that needs a bit more attention.
Organic Coconut Oil with Ylang Ylang – I make sure I always have a pot of this in my bathroom during the summer because I love using it on my sun-kissed skin. My skin drinks it in and it feels so soft and comfortable afterwards. You will also find me running this through my hair before I get in the shower, to restore health and shine to my mane!
A dry brushing ritual shouldn’t take much more than five minutes and it’s safe to do up to three times a week. It’s not recommended on any broken, sensitive or irritated skin. If you have diabetes or a circulatory medical issue, just double check with your doctor that’s it’s safe for you.
Let me know how you get on!
Lindsey
Lindsey Anne Hedges MIFPA
None of the information provided is intended to diagnose, treat or prescribe for any medical conditions. If you require health advice, please seek the help of a medical professional.