Dry brushing has gained traction as a simple, spa-like ritual at home to boost circulation, exfoliate, and revitalize tired skin. But how often should you do it—and is it safe to make it part of your daily routine?
If your skin is generally healthy, dry brushing once a day—or even just after your shower—can be perfectly fine. Dermatologists recommend starting slow. Focus on a small skin patch first, like your calf or thigh, and gently work your way up to a full-body routine. The key word is gentle—too much pressure can do more harm than good. Scrubbing aggressively can cause tiny tears in your skin, opening the door to infections.
According to Dr. Shari Lipner of Weill Cornell Medicine, if your skin becomes red, sore, or inflamed, take a break and let it recover. Also, don’t forget to clean your brush regularly to avoid bacterial buildup.
So, what does dry brushing actually do? “It’s a great physical exfoliant,” says Dr. Cindy Wassef of Rutgers Health. It sloughs off dead skin, boosts blood flow, and might even improve the look of cellulite—though don’t expect miracles. And despite the hype, there’s no scientific proof that dry brushing supports lymphatic drainage.
For some, dry brushing may trigger pigment changes or worsen conditions like psoriasis or acne. People with diabetes, active infections, or open wounds should steer clear.
Don’t love the sensation of dry brushing? No problem. You can still get smoother, healthier skin with gentle exfoliating creams and solid moisturizing habits. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, urea, or ammonium lactate to lock in hydration and renew your skin—no brush required.
