This post looks at the benefits of dry brushing, and how to dry brush legs for cellulite. Plus our go-to body brush to stimulate circulation and reduce cellulite.
If you’re unhappy with the look of stubborn cellulite on your body, you’re not alone! Cellulite affects over 90% of women, with the legs being a particularly troublesome area.
The good news is that it’s totally possible to achieve firmer, smoother skin on the legs and thighs. One of the best ways to target cellulite on the legs is with dry body brushing.
What’s dry brushing? Dry brushing (also known as body brushing or skin brushing) is the process of brushing over dry skin with a natural bristle body brush.
This is a simple and effective way to reduce the appearance of cellulite – and it can be easily added to your skincare routine. Read on to learn how to dry brush legs for cellulite.
Benefits of Dry Brushing Legs for Cellulite
Stimulates circulation
One of the main benefits of dry brushing is that it stimulates circulation. When the bristles press against the skin, they create pressure that helps blood flow through the capillaries. This can help ease congestion.
Increased blood flow also causes the capillaries enlarge. This process is known as vasodilation, and it can minimize the look of lumpy cellulite since it temporarily plumps the skin.
You should see an immediate improvement in cellulite from the increase in circulation, and it may also improve the appearance of the skin over time.
Encourages lymph flow
You need a healthy lymphatic system to keep cellulite at bay. The lymph system is how your body gets rid of waste. When toxins and excess fluids remain the body, it can make cellulite look worse.
Unlike other body systems, the lymph system doesn’t have its own pump and needs to be stimulated to work properly.
Dry brushing stimulates the lymphatic system and helps move lymph through the body. This makes it easier for your body to get rid of these toxins, which in turn helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Reduces water retention
Cellulite can happen when the body holds on to too much water. So, if you’ve tried to get rid of cellulite through exercise but haven’t seen results, it could be due to water retention.
When your body’s fluids don’t move as well as they should, water builds up between your cells. This makes cellulite and other fatty areas look even more lumpy and bumpy.
A lack of blood flow and lymphatic drainage can cause you to hold on to water. We’ve already talked about how dry brushing is a simple and effective way to improve circulation and lymph flow. This makes it a great way to get rid of the resulting water retention.
Strengthens connective tissue
Have you ever thought about what makes cellulite look dimpled and bumpy? Cellulite happens when fat pushes against the connective tissue that holds the skin to the muscles. This tissue is also called fascia.
Cellulite is thus primarily caused by hardened connective tissue or fascial adhesions. It is critical to strengthen the connective tissue and fascia to avoid this.
Dry brushing is an excellent method for strengthening and smoothing these tissues. The process of moving the brush over the skin functions like a massage, softening the tissues and promoting blood flow, which can promote healthier fascia.
Encourages skin renewal
Luckily, dry brushing is known for making the skin smooth and firm. The firm bristles help to exfoliate the top layers of skin, softening the skin while also helping to stimulate collagen production.
As we get older, we lose collagen, which makes our skin wrinkle and sag. However, by increasing your body’s collagen production, you can keep your skin appearing young and smooth for longer.
Exfoliation stimulates fibroblasts, which are cells responsible for the production of collagen. Increased collagen thickens the skin and lessens cellulite’s appearance.
How to Dry Brush Legs for Cellulite
Selecting a dry body brush
Dry brushes come in a variety of styles, but we recommend looking for one with natural bristles because they are gentler on the skin.
The Tone & Glow Body Brush is a premium natural bristle dry brush with soft yet sturdy bristles that is ideal for dry brushing cellulite-prone legs.
Step-by-step instructions for dry brushing legs
- Dry brushing should be performed on dry skin. That means preferably right before taking a bath or shower.
- Use long, sweeping strokes to work your way up the legs, starting at the feet. Be sure to go over each area numerous times with the brush.
- Give areas that are prone to cellulite some extra time and attention. Always use a circular motion when dry brushing.
- Don’t simply stop at your legs! Dry brush the remainder of your body, including the back, arms, back, and belly, for the best results. Always brush in the direction of your heart, which is in the natural direction of flow of your lymphatic system for maximum detox effect.
- After your dry brushing session, hop in the bath or shower to wash off any remaining dead skin cells.
- Immediately after taking a shower, hydrate and replenish your body by applying a body lotion or oil. To optimize the cellulite-reducing benefits of dry brushing, we advise using Contour Sleek, our cellulite firming body oil.
Additional tips for dry brushing legs for cellulite
- Dry brushing should be done at least three times per week to establish a habit.
- Apply firmer pressure to areas of skin that are thicker, such as the buttocks and hips.
- Apply lighter pressure to the stomach and inner thighs, which have thinner skin.
- Avoid brushing over skin that is inflamed or damaged.
- To aid in the detoxification process, drink plenty of water after dry brushing.
Free guide to dry body brushing
Want to experience maximum benefits from dry brushing? Download our FREE Guide to Dry Body Brushing printable chart here. This handy reference is the perfect companion to your daily dry brushing routine!
Tone & Glow Body Brush
This premium natural bristle body brush reduces the look of cellulite by stimulating circulation and lymph flow while firming the skin’s appearance. It’s an absolutely must for dry brushing legs for cellulite!
