Is Dry Brushing Before Showering Really Optimal?

A skin expert reveals the best timing to reap the ultimate exfoliation benefits.

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TikTok True or False is the answer to your burning questions about the health, beauty, and fitness fads taking over your social feeds. Each story breaks down a buzzy wellness trend with the help of experts and scientific research to uncover the truth and safety behind the viral "advice" you see online. You'll never have to wonder what's actually legit — or what to skip — again.

You can always count on social media to convince you to add a "game-changing" product or technique to your routine. Recently, TikTok's beauty community, aka #BeautyTok, has sparked a wave of interest in dry brushing before showering, claiming it to be a transformative ritual that results in glowing skin and improved circulation. With over 125 million views under the #Drybrushing hashtag, people are raving about this technique. But is it truly as beneficial as it seems?

To dissect the truth behind this trend, we sought the expertise of dermatologist Dr. Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD, owner of The Dermatology and Laser Group in New York City and Assistant Professor of Dermatology at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Keep reading to learn more about dry brushing and whether it's actually worth adding this hyped-up step to your pre-shower routine.

Dry brushing is an ancient ritual commonly associated with Ayurvedic Medicine. The technique involves using a brush with firm yet gentle bristles to exfoliate the skin's surface, which can result in a smoother and more radiant texture. Dr. Akhavan confirms that "dry brushing can help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote a smoother skin texture," which can enhance the effectiveness of skincare products.

The technique is also associated with wellness benefits such as improved circulation and lymphatic drainage. However, he cautions against overreliance on dry brushing for broader health benefits, as "there is limited scientific evidence to support the claims of improved overall circulation and lymphatic drainage." Particularly regarding blood circulation, he points out that the benefits stemming from dry brushing are temporary. So while dry brushing has both beauty and wellness benefits, in some cases, there are more viable solutions.

Despite the allure of its potential benefits, dry brushing isn't a one-size-fits-all practice. According to Dr. Akhavan, certain skin types should steer clear of dry brushing altogether. Individuals with active skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis, or those with sensitive or broken skin, should avoid dry brushing as it may worsen these conditions.

Conversely, "those with very dry skin may benefit more from this practice as it can help exfoliate and rid the skin of dead skin cells, revealing a smoother texture," explains Dr. Akhavan. He stresses the importance of replenishing the skin's moisture after dry brushing, advising to "make sure to moisturize your skin afterward to maintain skin barrier function and prevent dryness."

If you're contemplating adding dry brushing to your pre-shower skincare routine, Dr. Akhavan advises you to proceed with caution. Firstly, frequency is key to avoiding skin irritation. "Limit dry brushing to 2-3 times per week," he states. The technique you use also plays a vital role, with the recommended way being to brush in long, sweeping motions toward the heart—it's worth noting that direction matters, particularly when dry brushing for lymphatic drainage. Lastly, always follow up with a moisturizing product to replenish the skin's moisture and maintain its health in the long run.

Choosing the right brush is another critical factor. Dr. Akhavan recommends opting for a brush with natural, medium-firm bristles, cautioning that overly stiff bristles can damage the skin. As a reminder, if you have any specific skin concerns or medical conditions, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating dry brushing into your regimen. This practice can offer some skin benefits, but he stresses it's not suitable for everyone and may exacerbate certain skin conditions.

Unfortunately, there's not a solid "true" or "false" to this question. According to Dr. Akhavan, the answer is more complex than yes or no. "Dry brushing is a matter of personal preference. It can be an effective method of exfoliation and can act as a calming self-care routine," he says. However, for more substantial health benefits, he advises seeking the help of a trained professional. Anecdotally, many people prefer to dry brush before showering to exfoliate dry skin, then rinse off any debris and replenish moisture via a moisturizing body wash followed by skin oil and moisturizer.

While dry brushing may offer certain immediate benefits like exfoliation and a temporary circulation boost, its efficacy in providing lasting health benefits is still up for scientific debate. Always remember to consider your skin type, consult a dermatologist, and listen to your body, especially before trying trends you see online. After all, skincare, health, and wellness are deeply personal journeys, and what works wonders for one may not be ideal for another.