Westlondondogmum

Dry brushing is an easy yet effective self care ritual that anyone can add into their daily routine but it is most effective when incorporated to align with your menstrual cycle. By adjusting the frequency and intensity based on your hormonal fluctuations and skin sensitivity you can get the most out of the benefits that dry brushing.

Dry brushing can be a strategic part of cycle syncing when you align it with your body’s hormonal shifts.

Menstrual phase (Days 1-5)

During your menstrual phase estrogen and progesterone levels are low which leads to dryness and increased sensitivity. Whilst in the menstrual phase you need to focus on REST and RENEWAL.

Dry brush benefits:

Gentle strokes can aid lymphatic drainage reduce bloating or stagnation BUT your skin may be more sensitive. Opt for light pressure or if your skin is feeling really sensitive and tender, skip altogether.

Skincare tips:

Use hydrating and soothing products for dryness and sensitivity like body butter and body oil.

follicular phase (Days 6-14)

Estrogen levels begin to rise which leads to an improved mood and energy. Your energy rises and skin regenerates.

Dry brush benefits:

This is the perfect time to exfoliate and stimulate circulation. Your skin is usually less reactive, so you can be a bit bolder. You can increase the frequency and intensity of dry brushing as your skin can now tolerate it.  

Skincare tips:

Continue with hydrating products and consider adding a gentle exfoliator – think about a luxury body scrub and a high quality exfoliating mitt.

ovulatory phase (days 15-17)

Estrogen levels peak which lead to another potential boost in energy and mood. You will be in peak vitality and radiance.

Dry brush benefits:

With estrogen peaking, your skin often looks its best. Dry brushing enhances that effect, continue with your routine, enjoy the benefits of increased circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Skincare tips:

Focus on maintaining healthy skin with your regular routine. Its a great time to pair it with hydrating oils or serums after showering.

Luteal phase (days 18-28)

As progesterone levels rise this leads to the potential increase in oil production, breakouts and skin sensitivity. Start thinking to slow down and support your body to detox.

Dry brush benefits:

This is when dry brushing becomes therapeutic. Hormones shift and many experience puffiness or sluggish digestion. Daily dry brushing can promote circulation and help relieve tension. It will help to unclog pores and stimulate lymphatic drainage. Just be gentle, skin may be more prone to irritation.

Skincare tips:

Incorporate products that regulate oil production, reduce inflammation and soothe skin

last minute glow up tips:

• Pair dry brushing with cycle-friendly body oils like magnesium or castor oil for added hormonal support.
• If you track your cycle in a journal or app, note how your skin reacts at different times, this will help you fine-tune your routine.
• Get yourself a aesthetic water bottle and stay well-hydrated throughout your cycle to support the lymphatic drainage.  

REMEMBER – ALWAYS USE GENTLE, UPWARD STROKES TOWARDS YOUR HEART AND AVOID OVER-EXFOLIATING!!