Hey guys, welcome to Sauna Squad. Today we’re exploring the practice of dry brushing and the potential benefits when combining it with infrared sauna sessions.
If you’re new around these parts, here’s the deal: my husband Paul and I have been huge fans of infrared saunas for a while now. They’re fantastic for boosting blood circulation and covering skin issues.
But then, I stumbled upon something that changed everything – combining my sauna sessions with dry brushing. Yes, that ancient technique sweeps away dead skin cells, improves lymph drainage, and promotes detoxification.
So, why should you try this? Because your body deserves the best.
Whether you have dry skin or sensitive skin or just want to give your body a treat, this combination of dry skin brushing and infrared sauna is a game-changer.
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What is Dry Brushing?
Dry brushing is a simple and centuries-old technique that uses a specialized brush with natural bristles to massage and exfoliate your skin gently. This practice helps remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin looking dull and rough.
But where did it all begin? Well, dry brushing has its roots in ancient wellness traditions, especially in cultures that emphasize skin health and detoxification. It’s a technique that’s stood the test of time, and for good reason.
How do you use a dry brush? You start at your feet and use gentle upward strokes towards your upper body. This motion stimulates blood flow and encourages lymphatic drainage, crucial to detoxifying your body.
So, how does it fit with infrared sauna therapy? Yes! The heat from an infrared sauna opens up your pores and gets you sweating, which is fantastic for detox.
When you add dry brushing to the mix, it’s like a double boost. The brushing exfoliates your skin, making it more receptive to the sauna’s heat, and together, they supercharge your detox journey.
Who is Dry Brushing Good For?
For starters, it’s great for various skin types. If you have dry skin, it can help remove flakiness and promote a softer skin texture. Even if you have sensitive skin, dry brushing can be adapted to suit your comfort level. It’s like a gentle massage for your body.
When it comes to health conditions, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you have skin issues like eczema or psoriasis. They can provide tailored guidance on safely incorporating dry brushing into your routine.
But here’s the real beauty of dry brushing: It’s not confined to specific groups or demographics. Its universal benefits make it accessible and beneficial for anyone looking to enhance their skin’s health.
Where can I buy a dry brush?
We highly recommend checking out reputable brands like Therasage for your dry brushing needs. The TheraBrush Deluxe Vegan Dry Brush in particular comes highly recommended. If you’re considering purchasing one and you’d like to support our humble little blog, use code “SAUNASQUAD” for 10% off at checkout!
Is it Worth Trying the Dry Brushing Sauna?
Yes, trying a dry brushing sauna can be highly beneficial for your skin.
Dry brushing, a technique highlighted by Margot European Spa, offers a range of advantages. It stimulates the lymphatic system, enhances blood circulation, and helps in shedding dead skin cells.
Incorporating dry brushing before a sauna session, especially an infrared one, can be particularly effective. According to a study in PubMed Central, this combination can be synergistic. Dry brushing boosts blood flow and opens up pores, making the skin more receptive.
Meanwhile, with its therapeutic IR-A exposure, the sauna further enhances skin health. This ancient technique can lead to softer skin, improved cell turnover, and a more effective detoxification process.
However, it’s crucial to consider individual skin types and health conditions. This method might only suit some, particularly those with sensitive skin or specific skin issues like sunburns.
How to Use a Dry Brush: Should You Dry Brush Before or After a Sauna?
When it comes to enhancing your sauna experience, the decision to dry brush before or after can significantly impact your benefits. Your choice should align with your skin’s specific needs and the detoxification goals you aim to achieve. Here’s a recommendation to optimize this practice for your skincare routine.
Why Do Dry Brush Before Infrared Sauna?
I highly recommend dry brushing before entering the sauna. This method is excellent for stimulating blood circulation and opening pores, which primes your skin for an effective detox session inside the sauna.
The upward strokes with a natural bristle brush enhance lymphatic drainage and prepare your skin to sweat out toxins efficiently. Think of it as a warm-up exercise for your skin, preparing it for the detoxifying heat of the sauna.
Why Do Dry Brush After Infrared Sauna?
Alternatively, dry brushing after your sauna session is a great way to capitalize on your skin’s post-heat softness. This approach is particularly gentle and effective in removing loosened dead skin cells, aiding the body’s natural cooling process.
It’s a soothing finish to your sauna experience, leaving your skin feeling softer and smoother. Consider this method a calming cooldown, helping your skin relax and rejuvenate after the sauna’s intensity.
17 Health Benefits of Practicing the “Dry Brushing Infrared Sauna” Technique
Combining dry brushing with an infrared sauna session is great for your skin and body. Here are 17 benefits of this amazing duo:
- Enhanced Blood Circulation: Dry brushing boosts blood flow. This means more oxygen and nutrients get to your body parts.
- Effective Lymphatic Drainage: This technique helps clear out toxins from your body. It’s like a detox for your lymph system.
- Exfoliation of Dead Skin Cells: Brushing gets rid of dead skin. Your skin will feel softer and smoother.
- Detoxification Through Sweat: In a sauna, you sweat a lot. This helps get rid of body toxins.
- Improved Skin Texture: Brushing and sauna together make your skin softer. They can also help with different skin issues.
- Boosted Immune System: Better blood flow and lymphatic drainage can strengthen your immune system.
- Stress Reduction: The sauna’s warmth and brushing can relax you. It’s a great way to reduce stress.
- Increased Cell Turnover: This practice helps your skin make new cells. This is good for keeping your skin healthy.
- Reduction in Cellulite Appearance: Regular brushing can reduce cellulite. It breaks down fat under the skin.
- Pore Cleansing: Brushing and sauna heat open and clean your pores. This helps your skin breathe better.
- Supports Skin’s Natural Functions: Your skin, the body’s largest organ, works better with improved blood flow and fewer toxins.
- Aids in Nutrient Distribution: Better blood flow means nutrients get around your body more easily.
- Removal of Heavy Metals: Sweating in the sauna can eliminate heavy metals in your body.
- Balanced Fat-Soluble Vitamins: The detox process helps balance important vitamins.
- Relief for Sensitive Skin: Gentle brushing can calm sensitive skin.
- Promotes Relaxation Post-Session: A hot bath after sauna and brushing relax your muscles and skin.
- Holistic Health Improvement: This technique is good for your whole body. It improves both physical and mental health.
Top 10 Preparatory Tips for Dry Brushing Before Infrared Sauna
To ensure you get the most out of this combination, it’s important to follow some key preparatory steps. These tips will help you maximize the effectiveness of dry brushing and make your sauna session more enjoyable and beneficial.
- Select a Natural Bristle Brush: Choose a brush with natural bristles for gentleness on your skin.
- Ensure Skin is Dry: Start with completely dry skin for effective brushing.
- Begin at the Feet: Initiate brushing from your feet, moving upwards toward your heart.
- Use Light, Upward Strokes: Apply gentle pressure in long, upward strokes.
- Cover All Areas Evenly: Spend equal time on each body part for uniform stimulation.
- Avoid Sensitive Spots: Skip over any sensitive or injured skin areas.
- Brush Pre-Shower: Dry brush right before showering or entering the sauna.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water before and after your session to aid detoxification.
- Take Your Time: Don’t rush; enjoy each stroke for maximum benefit.
- Clean Your Brush Regularly: Wash your brush after each use to maintain hygiene.
7 Crucial Don’ts in Dry Brushing Before Infrared Sauna
When dry brushing before an infrared sauna, it’s important to be aware of these precautions, especially if you have specific skin conditions:
- Don’t Use a Hard Brush: Avoid brushes with overly stiff bristles that can irritate your skin.
- Don’t Brush on Damaged Skin: Skip areas with cuts, wounds, or sunburns to prevent aggravation.
- Don’t Over-Brush: Limit your brushing to avoid skin irritation and redness.
- Don’t Ignore Skin Conditions: If you have eczema, psoriasis, or similar conditions, avoid dry brushing those areas. Always consult your doctor first.
- Don’t Brush Dry or Sensitive Skin Harshly: Use extra gentle strokes on dry or sensitive skin areas.
- Don’t Forget to Hydrate: Always hydrate well before and after dry brushing and sauna sessions.
- Don’t Brush Immediately After Eating: Wait at least an hour after a meal before dry brushing to avoid discomfort.
Article Wrap Up
To recap, combining dry brushing with an infrared sauna offers numerous benefits. This powerful duo enhances blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. It helps in detoxifying your body. Plus, it makes your skin softer and smoother.
Dry brushing is a simple technique. You use a brush with natural bristles. Start from your feet and brush upwards. It also boosts blood flow and prepares your skin for the sauna. The method is adaptable and beneficial for a range of skin types.
Now is the time to try this out. Start with dry brushing. Then, enjoy a relaxing session in an infrared sauna. Your body will thank you for it! And if you’ve already tried this, I’d love to hear about your experience. Let me know how it went for you!
Disclaimer: We are merely sauna enthusiasts. We are NOT medical professionals. It is highly recommended you speak with a healthcare professional before allowing your child in the sauna with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I dry brush?
Dry brushing can be done four to five times per week. However, if you have sensitive skin, you should limit it to fewer sessions. Start with one or two weekly sessions and see how your skin responds.
Is it okay to dry brush every day?
Daily dry brushing might be too much for most people, especially for sensitive skin. It’s better to start slowly and increase frequency as your skin gets used to it.
What type of skin is dry brushing not recommended?
Dry brushing is not recommended for skin affected by eczema, psoriasis, acne, infection, sunburn, cancer, moles, warts, or open wounds. People with sensitive skin should also be cautious and may want to limit their dry brushing.
A message from Sauna Squad
We hope we’ve provided some value in your research. But if you have any questions or concerns, hit us up on Instagram @thesaunasquad or feel free to fire us a message on our contact page.