Body brushing – a simple beauty treatment

Do you want your skin to feel perfectly smooth? Even out its tone? Reduce cellulite? It's all possible thanks to an easy procedure that only requires a little of your time and regularity. And that's body brushing. This method, which originated in the Far East, is both a massage and a scrub – hence its beneficial effects. Initially, dried and hard parts of grass were used for this purpose. Soon, they were replaced with natural bristle brushes. It is best to look for a plant bristle brush or, if you are unable to find such type, one made of horse or boar tail bristles. Synthetic ones are out of the question, as they are simply too sharp and can irritate the skin.

Brushing should be done 2-3 times a week. You can perform it shortly before bathing but it yields much better results when performed wet, during a soak, when the skin is already warmed up and stretched. Regardless of its type, this ritual is best performed in the morning, as it is highly stimulating and an evening session could make it difficult for you to fall asleep.

Brush your body in a circular, sweeping motion. Start from the feet and move towards th heart. Next, proceed to the upper body and back to the heart. This way, you stimulate the lymphatic vessels to work more effectively. It's simple and only takes a few moments – approximately 5 to 10 minutes. You will notice the effects of brushing after a week’s time. The skin will become smoother and – by stimulating circulation – firmer. Its overall condition and appearance will improve, too.

However, there are contraindications for body brushing. You should not perform this procedure in case of wounds, irritations and inflammations of the skin. Also, if you have numerous moles and birthmarks, take extra care. Contraindication for body brushing is acne, fresh scars, psoriasis and tendency to burst blood vessels. If you have any doubts, contact your doctor.

As you can see, home spa treatments - and there are countless of them - do not have to be complicated or require advanced cosmetics. The power of some of them, such as brushing, lies in their simplicity. And, of course, some determination to devote a little more time for yourself.