In a recent Instagram video sharing her take on detoxes (you name it, she’s tried it), Paltrow demonstrates her body brushing technique, a simple – and effective – skincare practice that’s been around for centuries

“It dates back to Ayurvedic and Ancient Egyptian cultures, as well as Traditional Chinese Medicine,” skincare expert Abigail James tells Bazaar. In a nutshell, “dry body brushing involves buffing dry skin with a brush, which leaves it softer and smoother” she explains. “Sloughing off dead cells also allows any body products you apply afterwards to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.”

While it does exfoliate the skin, it does not eliminate the need to use a weekly body scrub – Noella Gabriel, global president and co-founder of Elemis adds – “but rather it enhances the results of all the body products you use, by removing the dead skin cells that can block pores”. Improved cell turnover also means fewer clogged hair follicles and ergo less chance of ingrown hairs. Good to know if that’s something you suffer from.

Karmameju's Ionic Body Brush

Beyond the surface-level benefits, James notes that dry body brushing helps keep our body functioning well from the inside-out. “Helping to boost circulation and increase blood flow, it also stimulates lymphatic drainage and detoxification.”

Gabriel concurs, explaining that the removal of impurities from under the skin’s surface means dry body brushing is “extremely useful for encouraging cellulite deposits to disperse and for decongesting all the systems of the body”.

With many benefits to reap – at an accessible price point – dry body brushing is a no brainer. To get the most from it, follow James’ technique tips in the morning before showering, two-to-three times a week. “But be careful to avoid any areas with broken skin, inflammation, eczema or dermatitis,” she cautions.

Dry body brushing tips

1. Choose a brush with soft but firm bristles and a long handle so that you can reach your back.

2. On dry skin, start at your feet and use long, circular sweeping motions with medium pressure. Work upwards, moving in the direction of your heart. From feet to knee, then knee to groin. You can be firmer on your thighs and bottom.

3. When you reach your chest, use downward strokes from beneath your jaw toward your heart to encourage lymphatic drainage. Be gentler on your decolletage.

4. Sweep up from hands to elbows, then elbows to armpits.

5. Shower and follow with a hydrating body moisturiser.

Reference: BazBridget March :Baazar