Life lived in the fast lane doesn’t offer people much luxury to find enough time to unwind after a hectic day at work or pamper themselves to resume their daily grinds with renewed vigour.

For the out and about Gen-Z, squeezing in a proper grooming regime amid a chock-a -block schedule is just next to impossible. Here arises the need to maintain personal hygiene at breakneck speed, be it dry shampoo or dry brushing, where there is zero usage of water and soap, no hassles of rubbing or rinsing but 100 per cent of cleansing gets a guarantee.

Today’s regular rituals of taking care of oneself assume a different meaning with innovative ideas and novel techniques. From defence to sports, academics to agriculture, health to beauty — every industry is now getting a new-age spin with disruptive technology. The glamour and aesthetics sector too is not unfazed by this transformative effect.

Neat grooming

Dry brushing is one such grooming regime that aids in exfoliating the dead skin cells with the help of a bristle brush. But one wonders, how far is this method of sprucing up considered hygienic? Reputed dermatologist Dr. Diksha Phadke informs that “dry brushing apparently has its roots in Ayurveda, where the technique was called gharshana which means rubbing. It was done using naturally extracted powdery residues (uttan), oils and soft organic cloth-like smooth silken gloves. In current times, coarse bristles or short stiff hairs of an animal or plant are used to dry brush the skin, which could be more abrasive to the skin.”

“Nevertheless,” she reminds further that “if done rightly and gently, it can help peel off the dry, scaly, damaged and weathered skin. Although I wouldn’t recommend use of rough bristles for the Indian skin-type as it is rich in melanin pigment, and friction of this sort, might cause pigmentary skin disorders like frictional melanosis and macular amyloidosis.” Additionally, Dr. Phadke cautions that “to prevent infection, avoid dry brushing over cuts, scrapes, warts, moles or other growths as that might cause irritation and itchiness to the skin.”

Brush basics

It is best to apply different brushes to different parts of the skin to fit its texture and sensitivity as the skin varies from delicate zones to hard surfaces. “To evade discomfort, gentle brushes are ideal for sensitive areas like the face and the region around the eyes. As the skin is thicker and more resilient in places like the elbows, knees or feet, therefore firmer brushes can be utilised there. To achieve a healthy, balanced skin everywhere, always use brushes with the right bristles and employ them with soft strokes and touches,” suggests dermatologist Dr. Nirupama Parwanda, also the founder of Zolie Skin Clinic. “Remember, dry brushing is not recommended for people with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis because it may hurt and inflame the skin,” she alerts ahead.

When quizzed if one should dry brush the whole body or only specific parts, to that, Dr. Phadke advises to “be careful about the facial skin and the regions in body folds like the underarms, groins, elbows and the knee folds that are sensitive in nature. So, dry brushing in these areas can do more harm than good.”

Regarding the kind of brush and bristles ought to be used for brushing the body, Dr. Blossom Kochhar, beauty expert and pioneer in aromatherapy, volunteers: “Make sure to use a brush with soft bristles, which isn’t harsh on the skin or else, you might end up chafing your skin and get those eruptions or rashes. The bristles shouldn’t be too soft either. Otherwise, the dead cells won’t go away.”

Warning bells

People with sensitive skin should generally avoid dry brushing or approach the technique cautiously, instruct skin specialists. “Dry brushing involves stripping the skin off dirt and grime using a firm-bristled brush, which could induce micro-tears to sensitive skin, causing redness and inflammation. If someone with sensitive skin at all wishes to try dry brushing, he/she should use a subtle brush and abstain from exerting excessive pressure. Always follow up with a mild moisturiser with a calming effect to sustain the skin barrier,” insists Dr. Meghna Mour, chief dermatologist at Skuccii Supercliniq.

Finally, dry brushing the skin can leave different impacts on different skin types. One should endorse the right category of skincare products depending on skin colour, sun exposure, skin sensitivity, inflammatory skin conditions, oily/ dry skin texture, et al. Hence, consulting the respective dermats is advisable before embarking on such a skincare journey.

Beware

Individuals with certain skin issues, such as active acne, etc., should skip dry brushing as it could exacerbate the prevalent conditions. People with extremely dry or fragile skin, open wounds or infections should also give it a miss. Additionally, individuals with circulatory issues, such as varicose veins, should consult a dermatologist before starting the routine, as dry brushing could aggravate their existing health concerns.

Dearth of scientific proof

It is significant to understand that not many health claims surrounding dry brushing are scientifically proven. “While dry brushing can temporarily elevate your skin’s appearance into a spotless one, claims about detoxification or lymphatic drainage lack substantial scientific evidences,” debunks Dr. Mour.

Steeped in history

It is important to note that the dry brushing technique boasts an ancient legacy, which is deeply rooted in traditional Chinese, Ayurveda, ancient Greek and Japanese civilisations.

Dry brushing is a timeless practice, origins of which can be traced back to the days of yore. “In Ayurveda, dry brushing is known as gharshana. Raw silk gloves or brushes are used to enliven the body, promote circulation and enhance its lymphatic flow.

Similarly, customary Chinese medicine exercises like Gua Sha is involved with stimulating the skin to augment blood flow and energy balance. Even in ancient Greek civilisation, athletes used tools like strigils to exfoliate the skin and advance blood flow as part of their grooming rituals. Additionally, before soaking in hot baths, the ancient Japanese system often included dry brushing to cleanse the body and prepare it for relaxation.

These cultural heritages underscore dry brushing’s enduring appeal as a holistic wellness habit for both skin and the overall health,” sums up Dr. Mahnaz Jahaan, an aesthetic expert, cosmetologist and the founder of Keraderm Clinic.