Using a massage brush for the appearance of cellulite

Do you already know what dry massage with a brush is and how difficult it is to do it? Watch the video of the technique at the bottom of the article. There are different types of massage: classic, relaxing, wellness, anti-cellulite, Thai, lymphatic drainage. Drybrushing occupies a special place in the list of unusual and effective massages. What is it, what is its essence and how is it useful?

What is drybrushing?

This complex term hides a fairly simple procedure, which involves only hands and a massage brush with stiff bristles.

Translated from English, dry means “dry”, brush means “brush”.

Dry brush massage originated in the East, like many other techniques for body beauty and health. Thousands of women, including famous TV stars, resort to his help.

The procedure involves a fairly hard large brush, which has a beneficial effect on the skin and subcutaneous structures, so the epidermis takes on a fresher, more elastic, beautiful and even appearance.

The result of drybrushing after a month, the skin becomes smooth

Does massage help against cellulite?

The first question that arises in the minds of those losing weight is whether massage helps against cellulite? Everything here is individual and largely depends on the reasons causing it:

• overweight;
• genetic predisposition;
• problems associated with hormonal levels - puberty, improper functioning of the thyroid gland, pregnancy, taking oral contraceptives;
• lack of physical activity;
• bad habits: smoking, alcohol abuse;
• poor nutrition;
• insufficient consumption of clean drinking water per day;
• rapid weight gain or, conversely, rapid weight loss;
• sleep disturbance.

Treatment is largely determined by the stage of development of cellulite, the following are distinguished:

1. Initial, barely noticeable. Cellulite is noticeable when an area of ​​skin is compressed; in normal conditions it is not detected.
2. At the second stage, unevenness and bumpiness of the skin relief are noticeable, cellulite appears without compression, noticeable with muscle tension. The condition of the skin changes, it looks more flabby, inelastic, and swelling appears.
3. The third stage is characterized by significant changes in the skin. A distinct tuberosity appears and elasticity decreases. At this stage, progression of the pathology is observed, blood circulation and lymphatic drainage are disrupted, and nerve endings are pinched.
4. The last, fourth stage is called advanced cellulite. This is a serious lesion, which is characterized by large-scale changes in the structure of the skin and muscle tissue. The skin changes color, structure, tubercles, pits, and swelling are noticeable on them. Blood circulation is impaired, muscle atrophy is observed. Pain may occur when pressed.

At an early stage, cellulite is not very noticeable, so several procedures, supplemented by proper nutrition, will be enough to get rid of it.

The benefits of dry massage

Drybrushing cannot be called a medical technique: it is a simple cosmetic technique that leads to rejuvenation. It can be achieved by performing massage regularly and according to all the rules.

• Blood flow improves, resulting in tissue saturation with oxygen and nutrients.
• Stagnation disappears. Well, if you are ready for more radical methods, we recommend the hijama procedure.
• The old keratinized layer of epidermal cells is literally “removed”, so renewed skin cells appear on the surface.
• The number and severity of wrinkles are noticeably reduced, the skin acquires a smooth structure.
• Active intensive exposure awakens subcutaneous cells, cellulite disappears.
• By restoring muscle tone, body contours become more attractive.
• The lymph flow is activated, so impurities, toxins and decay products leave the body. We recommend an article about lymphatic drainage massage.
• The load on the excretory system, including the kidneys, is reduced.
• Metabolic processes at the cellular level are accelerated.
• Stretch marks, scars, scars and other defects become less noticeable.
• The functioning of the sebaceous glands is normalized, pores are cleaned, resulting in a reduced risk of inflammatory skin diseases.
• Nerve endings that are somehow connected with various internal organs are stimulated.

Rubbing, in which the body is treated everywhere or in certain places with a dry brush, brings positive emotions. A person manages to relax, get rid of bad thoughts, and free the nervous system from unnecessary worries.

Relaxing the body with a dry brush massage

Brushing is the enemy of adipose tissue and the friend of the epidermis. The brush stimulates blood circulation, gives skin tone, and intense movements lead to pleasant sensations in the body.

Description and types of massage brushes for cellulite

Cellulite is structural changes in the subcutaneous layer that lead to disruption of microcirculation and lymph flow. In simple terms, this disease is stagnation in adipose tissue. And yes, this is exactly the disease, which has the official name “gynoid lipodystrophy”. People call cellulite “orange peel” because the disease manifests itself externally in the form of changes in the skin, it becomes lumpy and really resembles the texture of a citrus fruit.

Modern medicine has made very good progress in the treatment of cellulite. One of the effective methods of combating “orange peel” is a special massage, which can be entrusted to a professional, or you can do it yourself using an anti-cellulite massage brush.

This method of therapy is on a par with professional massage and Charcot's shower in terms of effectiveness, but it is much more economical. Of course, a high-quality brush will probably cost more than one massage or shower procedure, but it will serve you for a long time, and you can carry out the therapy daily and independently, and regularity of treatment is an important principle in the fight against cellulite. But for professional procedures you will always need to find time, and you will have to pay for each session, which will ultimately cost a lot of money.

In the case of self-massage, the quality of the tool you use is of great importance, and therefore choosing it correctly is task number one. Of course, today there are a huge number of options for massage rollers on the market, and the classification is carried out according to three criteria:

• Base material - wood or silicone (or other non-natural material);
• Type of “working surface” - bristles (made of natural or unnatural bristles) or teeth (again, made of natural material or not);
• Handle - brushes that sink into the palm and have a separate handle.

Each model has its own advantages and disadvantages, but before we move on to their analysis, let's talk about what benefits a massage brush brings and whether it can cause harm.

Contraindications to the procedure

They are mainly associated with skin diseases and defects:

• wounds, cuts and other violations of the integrity of the skin;
• rashes of unknown etiology, inflammation;
• papillomas;
• dermatitis;
• varicose veins;
• psoriasis;
• moles, nevi;
• thin and sensitive skin;
• diseases accompanied by fever;
• infections in acute stages.

If you decide to have a dry massage with a brush, you should consult your doctor in advance.

Benefits and results

Time flies inexorably: before you have time to look back, the 30-year mark has already been passed. During this period, the first age-related changes begin to appear:

• Due to decreased production of collagen and elastin, the skin loses its elasticity.
• The number of cells producing melanin decreases, which causes the formation of age spots.
• The first wrinkles appear.

• Due to disruption of the sebaceous glands, the epidermis becomes thinner and more vulnerable, many complain of dryness and flaking.
• The subcutaneous fat layer thins, cheeks sag, jowls appear, and the corners of the lips and eyes droop.

Unfortunately, old age cannot be avoided, but daily massaging the body with a dry brush will help delay its approach, and at the same time eliminate a number of other problems. As a result of the procedure:

Photo: back massage

Judging by the reviews, dry massage delivers a lot of pleasant sensations, relaxes the body and nervous system, and fights stress, depression, and emotional stress.

Features of a session at home

Drybrushing, brushing or dry brushing is carried out both in spas and in special beauty centers, but this is one of those types of massage that is better to do yourself. To master the massage technique, you do not need special knowledge, skills, abilities and devices: it is enough to purchase a brush and discover a desire to improve the appearance of your skin.

Photo of use on the knee

Pros and cons of drybrushing

Massage with a brush made from natural materials can improve the condition of the skin. Like any procedure, it has many medical contraindications.

Drybrushing is not suitable for people who have: 1. Dermatological diseases 2. Blood diseases 3. Varicose veins 4. Severe chronic diseases

This type of effect on the skin allows you to minimize the manifestation of problems such as swelling, ingrown hair after depilation, and sagging skin. This is due to the process of lymph stimulation. Using a brush and appropriate massage movements

• lymph outflow increases,

• blood circulation is stimulated,

• metabolic processes are launched,

• excess liquid disappears,

• water balance is normalized.

Thanks to the mechanical action of the villi, a scrubbing effect can be achieved. After removing dead skin cells, the upper layer of the epidermis is renewed faster, the skin looks younger and tighter.

The downside of dry massage is redness and some pain of the procedure. As well as small additional expenses associated with the purchase of a brush. In addition, to see the effect, you need to massage for at least 4 weeks.

What to consider when buying a brush?

First of all, the features of the bristles . There are models with natural or artificial bristles. The base for the first is cactus, animal hair (for example, boar hair), bamboo, palm and sisal. Brushes made from palm fiber are called Japanese.

Japanese palm fiber brush

Benefits of natural bristles:

• hypoallergenic;
• medium hardness;
• the risk of skin injury is minimal;
• suitable for beginners.

Brushing with artificial bristles is suitable for people with thick skin with low sensitivity, since it cannot be called soft.

For the first session, it is better to choose a brush with soft bristles, so as not to injure unprepared skin and not to overdo it with friction.

Medium hard bristles
Secondly, the base material is taken into account . Brushing can have a wooden, silicone or plastic base. In all respects, such as environmental friendliness, durability and strength, wooden brushes win .

The third feature is the shape . There are two main forms: with a special bracelet or with a handle. A brush with a handle is suitable for rubbing your hips and back. Models without a handle, which are worn on the hand, are suitable for massaging the abdomen, legs and hard-to-reach places.

Round brush

Finally, the size of the brush. For cellulite on the legs, buttocks, abdomen and thighs, to improve blood circulation and the functioning of the lymphatic system, take a large brush with a long handle. Miniature toothbrush-like devices are recommended for massaging the face, neck, and hands.

Massage technique

To achieve the best result, you should strictly adhere to the technique of performing the procedure:

• The massage should start from the tips of the toes. Gradually you need to move up.
• The intensity of pressure with the brush at the beginning of the procedure is minimal. It can be increased only when the skin gets used to the mechanical impact and warms up well.
• It is recommended to massage the legs and feet with straight movements, and the thighs and buttocks with circular movements..
• During the massage, do not forget about the stomach and back. The skin here is more sensitive, so all movements should be smooth and careful.
• The hands should be rubbed in a circular motion, and the shoulder area should be rubbed with kneading movements.

Preparation for the procedure

Let's find out a diagram of how to use the brush. Before starting the session, no special preparation is required, however, a number of precautions and rules should be taken into account.

• You cannot use any cosmetics, including moisturizers and scrubs.
• When massaging your face, it is recommended to remove makeup.
• Rubbing will have a positive effect only if the skin and brush are completely dry.

How to do a body massage with a dry brush yourself

It is better to choose procedures in the evening , since it is advisable to take a shower after the session.

You need to take a purchased brush or two - one in each hand - place them on your feet and, controlling the strength of the movements, begin to move in a circle. The technique is simple; you need to move the brush in a circular motion from bottom to top, accelerating the lymph flow.

Each part of the body should have at least 10 movements: this is the only way to solve skin problems, eliminate congestion, stimulate collagen production, increase blood flow, and get rid of cellulite and fatty tissue with a brush.

Technique for performing a massage with a dry brush
A lasting positive effect can be achieved only if the rubbing is slow, of medium intensity, comfortable and lasts for several minutes on each part of the body.

Be sure to massage your knees at least 10 times: this is good for blood circulation and joint health.

Next, proceed to the hip area . As a rule, cellulite is always clearly visible on the thighs, which is why girls often worry. Massaging with a dry brush will help eliminate it or significantly reduce it.

From the hips to the buttocks , using the same circular movements, massaging each area of ​​the skin. Then you should move on to the lower back, sides and back. Here it is better to switch to a brush with a long handle if you have previously used a round brush that is fixed on your hand.

Spend a few minutes on your arms, armpits and shoulders . Excess fat tissue and skin problems are also often present in this area.

Application photo. It is important to rub your arms and shoulder areas

It is better to massage your face separately with a special brush after taking a shower..

Mini face brush

We recommend an article about vacuum facial massage.

A shower is necessary because the skin is dry, the keratinized scales have been subjected to intense movements and need to be washed off.

By devoting only 30 minutes a day to this massage, the effect can be noticed within a week.

You use care products where you shouldn't

Most body lotions and creams (with oils, herbal extracts and perfumed fragrances) are not advisable to apply to intimate parts of the body, especially the labia, from where irritating components can get onto the mucous membrane. The skin in this area does not need additional moisturizing, and if you still feel dry, give up soap in favor of a gel with moisturizing ingredients or use a hypoallergenic lotion or balm once.

You need to be careful with scrubs and peels. Exfoliation of the skin in the bikini area is one of the methods for preventing ingrown hairs, but scrubs with large abrasive particles (for example, salt crystals) cannot be used for this purpose. Choose the gentlest possible exfoliator for sensitive skin and use it gently, without unnecessary rubbing.

Video techniques

Procedures after the session

If everything was done correctly, there should be no irritation or redness of the skin after the procedure. The appearance of rashes, bruises, bruises, and red stripes is unacceptable, but it is quite possible, and this means that the person did not control the force of pressure. By choosing a high massaging force, you can easily injure the skin, but the main effect will not be achieved .

After dry massage you need:

• immediately take a shower (preferably a contrast one) to wash off the skin flakes;
• Apply any moisturizing or soothing product to the skin: aloe vera gel, rich cream, lotion, body oil.

Be sure to rinse off after the session

To enhance the anti-cellulite effect, you can use any natural fat burner: a special emulsion or essential oils.

No other method, especially one that may cause skin irritation (for example, peeling), should be used . Also, you should not use cosmetics, including washing and shower gels.

A glass of boiled water with lemon will be beneficial: water stimulates metabolism and enhances the effect of the massage.

Dry brushing massage and side effects

Massage with a dry brush is not suitable for everyone : the rather rough impact of bristles is stressful for the skin, so some people experience side effects :

• redness, irritation, skin damage;
• itching and burning;
• the appearance of “vascular mesh” associated with capillary fragility;
• the appearance of bruises;
• inflammation or suppuration of the skin.

The massage should be stopped only if signs of inflammation and rotting of the skin appear. This means that a person has contraindications to massage, and if they were not found in the list listed, he should see a doctor and undergo an examination. Perhaps some diseases occur in a latent or chronic form.

Problems can also be caused by hard stubble, strong intensity of movements, or poor movement technique. In this case, you need to either buy brushing with softer bristles, or go to a special salon where the drybrushing technique is available to professionals. You can go to 2-3 sessions to remember how to perform a massage correctly, and then try to do it yourself again.

If, even after “working on the mistakes,” side effects persist, it is better to abandon this method. Every person is different, and dry rubbing may simply not be suitable for some.

You're drying yourself with a towel incorrectly

Ideally, you should have a separate towel for intimate areas. But the main thing is not to try to wipe yourself dry: the skin on the vulva is susceptible to mechanical damage. Instead, gently blot your genitals and let them dry naturally.

5. You try to cover up the smell with scented products.

“If nature wanted vaginas to smell like roses or lavender, she would have made vaginas smell like roses or lavender,” says Professor Ronald Lamont of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

The vagina tends to have an odor, so you shouldn’t mask it with perfumed wipes, vulva deodorants, or toilet paper with strong fragrances. Moreover, scented products can cause allergic reactions, especially if your skin is predisposed to them.

Vaginal odor may change several times during your cycle. But if you think it has become too harsh and unpleasant, contact your gynecologist: this may be a sign of an infection that requires treatment.

Is it possible to have a massage during pregnancy?

Women always want to look beautiful, and the period of pregnancy is no exception. But is rubbing dry cheeks acceptable during pregnancy?

In general, yes, massage has a positive effect on the body of a pregnant woman . It helps normalize the water-salt balance, relieves swelling, relieves fatigue and heaviness in the legs and back, stimulates metabolism, and has a beneficial effect on the digestion process. By the way, the Lyapko applicator provides similar assistance to the body.

There are only a few restrictions regarding the areas that can be massaged for expectant mothers:

• stomach;
• breast;
• groin area;
• area under the knees.

Before you decide to dry rub during pregnancy, you should consult a gynecologist.

If the doctor allows it, a woman can massage her hips, back and face to improve the well-being and condition of the epidermis.

Gentle massaging of permissible zones during pregnancy

It is also important for pregnant women not to neglect the subsequent moisturizing of the skin. Be sure to apply a moisturizer to the skin after the massage . Regular olive oil is best suited for this role.

How to use a drainage brush

It is no coincidence that brushes for dry massage are called drainage brushes. With their help, muscle fibers are activated, acting as a kind of pump and forcing the lymphatic fluid to move through the vessels, neutralizing harmful substances and taking with them decay products.

The main thing is to adhere to a certain technique of influence:

• Let's start with the feet. We work the feet and legs with straight-line movements from bottom to top.
• We rub our knees in a circle.
• We increase the pressure on the hips by massaging the surface in different directions, shown in the figure below. This does not apply to the internal area, which requires particularly careful handling: after all, large main vessels are located here, damage to which is life-threatening.
• Gently rub the stomach clockwise.
• We go through the lower part of the back with direct sweeping movements from bottom to top, from the collar area we move in the opposite direction, towards the heart.
• We work on the arms following the trajectory of hand–forearm–shoulder. Particular attention is paid to the palms and the reflex points located on them.
• At the end of the session, massage the delicate skin of the upper chest and neck with smooth sliding movements.

All movements are carried out strictly along the lymphatic system, according to the scheme:

Photo: body massage lines

The groin, popliteal fossa, mammary glands and axillary area are not touched.

The body is worked out evenly, alternately making the same number of movements, first on the left and then on the right side. The strength of the impact is adjusted individually and depends on the condition of the skin and the threshold of pain sensitivity. After a skillfully performed lymphatic drainage massage, there are no scratches left, and the skin acquires a delicate pink tint.

conclusions

Dry massage with a brush is a simple procedure that does not require special skills and therefore can be performed at home independently.

The massage should not cause discomfort or pain, cause negative skin reactions or be accompanied by redness of the epidermis. Before you decide to massage with a dry brush, you need to consult a doctor and study the technique of brush movements. We hope our readers will leave feedback below about using this procedure.

Read further:

• Vacuum therapy, fundamentals and principles of disease treatment
• Hiruduvacuum therapy, history and application of the method
• Cupping abdominal massage for weight loss and health
• Guidelines for the use of plastic massage cups
• Effective cosmetic vacuum massage of face and body at home
• Facial massage with cups at home: contraindications, technique and reviews
• Chinese gua sha massage for health and beauty

Brush selection

Despite the simplicity of the body brush, manufacturers are trying to produce different models. The assortment is quite wide, so before going to the store, familiarize yourself with the different types - this will help you make the right choice in accordance with your individual characteristics and preferences.

• The basis

One of the best is considered a wooden massage brush, which has numerous advantages. This “tool” is environmentally friendly, durable, and easy to use. The shape of the handle doesn't matter. Choose it to suit you: it can be long or completely buried in the palm of your hand. Many are equipped with a strap for fastening.

• Bristle

Of course, it is better to give preference to natural fibers (from boar bristles, for example), since artificial ones often cause allergies. The thickness of the bristly tufts should be at least 0.04 cm, length - 2 cm (this is the minimum).

Massaging with a brush that is too hard can seriously injure the skin, but a brush that is too soft will not have the desired effect. So the golden mean would be medium hardness. Ideal bristles do not prick or scratch the body and cause a noticeable rush of blood already on the fifth active glide. If the brush you purchased turns out to be hard, do not rush to throw it away: try soaking it in warm water for several hours and drying it - this will soften the bristles.

For cellulite, you can use similar tools not only with bristles. Modern models are produced with hard “pimples” - so the brush can be wooden, plastic, rubber or silicone. Choose the material that will be more pleasant to the body and will not cause allergies.

• Pen

On the one hand, brushes, located with the working surface in the palm of your hand, are very convenient because you can control every movement during massage. This allows you to treat the most problematic areas with special pressure. On the other hand, such models are inconvenient for massaging the back or hips from behind. For this, the best option is a long handle.

When choosing an anti-cellulite massage brush, be sure to consider your skin type, because it will be the first to experience the effects. After all, your task is not only to eliminate the orange peel, but also to improve the condition of the skin. Therefore, treat your choice with maximum responsibility.