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Dry-brushing is one of the best methods for removing dry skin from the body. While spas can charge upward of $150 per treatment, this easy process can be accomplished at home with a simple natural-bristle brush. While dry-brushing can also be done on the face, an exfoliating product is a gentler approach for this area. No need to run to the store -- you can create effective exfoliants with a few items from your kitchen. The very best way to get rid of dry skin, however, is to keep it from occurring. Do this by staying well-hydrated, eating lots of fruits and vegetables, and avoiding salty foods.
Exfoliate Away the Flaky Skin
Mix 1/2 cup of sugar with 1/4 cup of oil to form a thick paste. You can also purchase a gentle, all-natural sugar scrub if you prefer not to make your own.
Scoop a generous amount of the mixture and apply to your face. Gently rub the mixture into your chin, nose, cheeks and forehead using a clockwise circular motion until your face is covered.
Massage gently for about 30 seconds so as not to over-exfoliate. Wash off the solution with warm water and pat dry with a towel.
Use only oil and a soft terry washcloth on your face if your skin is too sensitive for exfoliating grains.
Get Out the Brush
Brush starting from your feet and work your way up. Use a clockwise, circular motion on your feet, and long, upward strokes for the rest of your leg. With both legs done, continue upward to your stomach, covering the area with a clockwise circular brushing motion.
Brush your arms using long strokes. Start from your wrist, working up to your elbow and shoulder. Stop at your decolletage to repeat the process on the other arm. With both arms done, go past your decolletage and onto your chest, where you should return to a clockwise circular brushing motion.
Brush your back, starting from the neck and going down to the lower back. Finish by taking a shower to wash off any excess shedding and clean your skin. Moisturize with an oil such as jojoba to further enhance the skin-softening process.
- When dry-brushing, always ensure you're brushing in the direction of your heart. This follows your body's natural lymphatic flow.
- When exfoliating your face, your scrubbing motion should always go upward from chin to forehead, never from forehead down. This is thought to combat the effects of gravity.
- Any leftover sugar and oil mixture can also be used to exfoliate your body.
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