I’ll be honest and admit that I didn’t think running a brush along my body every day would actually do much for my health. But there’s a reason that dry brushing has been a self-care practice for thousands of years — it really does work.
Between its exfoliating properties, ability to increase blood flow, lymphatic drainage, cellulite reduction and so much more, dry brushing is a simple, easy practice that offers many benefits. After testing out a bunch of different dry brushes over the last year or so, I’ve finally found the perfect tool that’s soft but firm, easy to hold and sturdy enough for daily use, too. Enter: Kitsch’s Body Dry Brush.
Kitsch Dry Brushing Body Brush
What we like
- Affordable price point
- Helps body feel more awake
Something to note
- Consider bristle material
- Effectiveness is anecdotal
Material: Vegan, cotton handle, bamboo base and nylon bristles | Goals: Exfoliate skin, get rid of dead skin cells
What are the benefits of dry brushing?The benefits of dry brushing are plentiful. “Dry brushing is designed to exfoliate and remove dull layers of skin and leaves your skin glowing,” explains Joanna Taylor, spa manager at Mohonk Mountain House. “This practice helps to increase blood flow, boost energy levels and eliminate toxins. Not only that, but dry brushing also promotes cell regeneration, reduces the appearance of cellulite, massages and invigorates sore muscles, reduces stress levels and promotes calm [feelings].”
One of the most widely known benefits of dry brushing is its effect on the lymphatic system. “Our lymphatic system is a drainage network, and dry brushing essentially helps move the lymphatic fluid toward the lymph nodes where it can be filtered and cleaned,” explains Danielle Gamble, esthetician and founder of Danielle Gamble Skin in Maplewood, New Jersey. “This drainage system sits under the skin and gentle movements (like brushing the skin with a bristled brush) will help the process along, therefore supporting our body’s elimination of waste.”
According to Gamble, dry brushing can give a smoother appearance to the skin because of its aid in exfoliation and circulation, therefore improving the appearance of cellulite. “But there are a variety of factors that play a role in cellulite, like genetics and hormone levels and it isn’t something you can get rid of with dry brushing alone,” she explains.
Why I tried the Kitsch Dry Brushing Body Brush productCall me basic, but TikTok influenced me to try out this self-care trend. I’d seen some videos and pictures of women who looked markedly slimmer after touting the myriad benefits of dry brushing, and I wanted to see for myself if this little tool made any difference on my skin and body.
Something I had noticed in the last year or so was that every time I would use my walking pad to get my steps in during the week, my body and face looked and felt a lot slimmer. Interestingly, I wasn’t burning a ton of calories, but I was moving my body a lot. I’m convinced that these walks stimulated my lymphatic system and helped flush out lymph fluids, toxins and waste from my body.
Considering I had seen success in supporting my lymphatic system with walks, I wanted to add to the momentum and use a dry brush every day, too. I chose to test out the Kitsch Body Dry Brush because I trust the brand, I loved the affordable price point and I also wanted a brush that was relatively soft on my sensitive skin.
How I used the Kitsch Dry Brushing Body Brush productDry brushing may seem simple, but doing it properly takes a bit of technique. To support lymphatic drainage and boost circulation, it’s important to use the right pressure and swipe the brush in the correct direction.
Experts recommend dry brushing before stepping into the shower. “Before you even begin using the brush, you need to work the areas of your body with the major lymph nodes to help the process along,” explains Gamble. “With your hands and firm pressure, massage under your arms, above your clavicle and around your groin.”
Following her advice, I began each session by massaging those key areas with my hands to stimulate lymphatic flow. Then, I grabbed my Kitsch dry brush and started at my feet, brushing upward in short, firm strokes toward my heart. I worked my way from my ankles to my thighs, then from my palms to my armpits. On my stomach, I used gentle circular motions in a clockwise direction and I stopped just below my neck.
The key is to always brush toward your lymph nodes, helping to guide toxins and fluid in the direction your body naturally eliminates them. The whole process takes me about two minutes — it’s quick enough to become a regular part of my pre-shower routine.
What I liked about the Kitsch Dry Brushing Body Brush productThe bristles are firm, yet gentleOne of the standout features of this brush is its soft, yet densely packed vegan bristles. The bristles feel firm enough to exfoliate effectively, yet gentle enough not to irritate my sensitive skin. I’ve tried a handful of dry brushes over the years, and none have come close to the softness of this one — especially at such an affordable price point. I’m not alone — many other users rave about the same thing.
I also love the natural cotton handle, which offers a secure, comfortable grip and doesn’t slip out of my hand while I’m brushing. The fact that it’s made with sustainable materials like bamboo and cotton is another major plus.
A lot of dry brushes out there are big and bulky with long handles, but this one is small enough to toss in a bag or stash in a drawer—making it super easy to travel with.
It's effectiveNot only do I love the brush, but I love the way it makes my body feel, too. I’ve been using this dry brush for months, and have noticed a slightly “slimming” effect to my body after consistent use. It also helps my body feel a little bit more awake when I use it in the morning before I shower.
I am a firm believer that the body keeps the score and that stress can get “trapped” in your body if not released. I’m convinced that the act of dry brushing helps to release some of the stress in my body and promote a sense of calm and relaxation. I think that if you are someone who experiences anxiety, having a daily dry brush practice might help ease some angst.
Other products to use in a dry brushing routineDove Hydration Boost Body Wash
What we like
- Affordable
- Leaves skin feeling soft
Something to note
- Is fragrance-free
- Not for those who want scent
Size: 17.5 fl oz | Formula: Creamy gel | Key ingredients: Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, plant-based | Best for: Gently cleansing and hydrating skin after dry brushing
Saltair Body Oil
Size: 4 fl oz | Formula: Oil | Key ingredients: Kukui, cacay, moringa, squalane and karanja oils | Best for: Hydrating skin pre-dry brushing
Blossom Essentials Moisture Restore Lotion
What we like
- Lightweight texture
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Something to note
- Higher price point
Size: 8 fl oz | Formula: Lotion | Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, Pro Vitamin B5, Vitamin C, sunflower oil | Best for: Providing long-lasting hydration and soothing dry, irritated skin
Esker Body Plane Skin Massager
What we like
- Can be used with oils
- Gently massages; no irritation
Something to note
- Has to be used post-shower
Size: 4.75” x 3.5” | Formula: Tool | Key materials: Stainless steel with a colloidal coating and ergonomic oil-grip handle | Best for: Smoothing skin and removing dead skin post-dry brushing or shower
Who is dry brushing good for?“Most people can benefit from dry brushing, but I would not recommend it on people with skin conditions like psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema—or any skin condition where the skin is sensitized,” warns Gamble.
Additionally, Taylor recommends avoiding areas on your body with sunburn, rashes, open wounds, moles or skin growths and anywhere on your face. “The elderly need to be careful with dry brushing, as they have thin skin,” says Taylor. “Also, avoid dry brushing if you have acne on your body, are recovering for surgery, or have Botox or filler somewhere other than your face, too.”
How often should you dry brush?According to experts we previously interviewed, you should be dry brushing on a consistent basis —at least three times a week, or even daily, to see results.
A board-certified dermatologist said it'll take at least two weeks to see results if you're consistent with a dry brushing routine.
What to considerThere are a few different things you should consider when on the hunt for a perfect dry brush.
- Look for a brush that has natural bristles instead of synthetic. “You also want to consider the handle — look for something that’s comfortable to hold because you want it to be something you reach for and will incorporate into your regular routine,” says Gamble.
- Balance the physical, mental, financial and environmental impact of what you're purchasing. “Consider brushes that are sustainable, biodegradable, made with non-toxic raw materials and are vegan-friendly,” suggests Taylor.
- There are not a ton of rigorous studies that have been done to prove the effectiveness of dry brushing. Although it's been around for centuries, evidence that supports dry brushing is more anecdotal.
- Joanna Taylor is the spa manager at Mohonk Mountain House.
- Danielle Gamble is an esthetician and founder of Danielle Gamble Skin based in Maplewood, New Jersey.
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products and sales out there across retailers. We use our own personal experiences with products and brands to make shopping easier for our readers.
Daley Quinn is a freelance writer for Shop TODAY, covering all things beauty, fashion and wellness.
Daley Quinn
Daley is a freelance journalist and editor who covers beauty, wellness, lifestyle and more.
