Originally published June 2024, updated September 2026.
Body brushing, whether wet or dry, is a much-loved practice known for its ability to remove dead skin and improve the skin's ability to eliminate toxins through the pores. It’s an especially great practice to start in cooler, dryer weather, as it helps remove flaky, scaly, winter skin.
But how do you do it, and is it for everybody? Read on to find out, and of course, you can shop body brushes at Biome anytime!
Quick answer: What’s the difference between dry and wet body brushing?
Dry brushing is done on dry skin before a shower and tends to feel more invigorating. Wet brushing is done in the shower or bath and can feel gentler, especially with a brush designed for wet use. Both exfoliate the skin. Choose the method and brush that feel comfortable for you, use light pressure, and avoid irritated or broken skin.
What are the benefits of body brushing?
Body brushing has been around for centuries and is believed to have health benefits, including:
✓ Amazing Exfoliation: Brushing helps slough off dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smooth and soft.
✓ Lymphatic stimulation: Body brushing is traditionally used to stimulate the lymphatic system, and dry brushing helps your body get rid of toxins.
✓ Circulation Boost: It’s a great way to get your blood flowing, which can give your skin a healthy glow.
✓ Energy Surge: Many find dry brushing invigorating, a perfect pick-me-up to start the day!
Some claim that body brushing will also get rid of cellulite, but there is no scientific evidence to suggest that it actually does. What you may see is a temporary plumping up of the skin from increased blood circulation. Cellulite is common and normal—embrace it!
Dry vs wet body brushing: what’s the difference?
| Dry brushing | Wet brushing | |
|---|---|---|
| When | Before a shower, on dry skin | In the shower or bath |
| Feel | More invigorating | Often gentler and more soothing |
| Tool | A brush designed for dry use | A brush designed for wet use, or an exfoliating shower towel |
| Finish | Shower, then moisturise | Rinse, then moisturise |
How do you dry body brush?
- Using a natural bristle brush, like those available here, start from your feet and work your way up your legs in long, fluid strokes.
- When it comes to your abdomen, breasts, neck, and back, focus on gentler circular motions.
- Do your arms last, brushing upwards towards your armpits in long, fluid strokes.
- Shower immediately afterward, using a natural body wash or soap, followed by a natural body oil or moisturiser.
Avoid your face, as there are different, softer brushes available for that. Avoid any other forms of body exfoliation on days you body brush.
Why choose wet body brushing?
Wet body brushing is easy to include in your shower routine. People often choose it because:
✓ Hydration Heaven: Wet brushing can be more hydrating for your skin, especially if you use a moisturising soap or oil.
✓ Gentle and Soothing: It’s typically less abrasive and feels more soothing on the skin.
✓ Super Clean: This method helps to cleanse your skin, removing dirt along with dead skin cells.
✓ Easy to Include: You can seamlessly integrate wet brushing into your shower routine.
How do you wet body brush?
- Opt for a brush designed for wet use, often with softer bristles.
- While you’re in the shower or bath, brush your skin using gentle circular motions.
- Rinse off and follow up with a good moisturiser.
Prefer a cloth to a brush in the shower? A Sasawashi exfoliating towel is another way to wash and exfoliate your body. Choose the Mesh Exfoliating Shower Towel for a gentler scrub, or the Open Weave Exfoliating Shower Towel if you enjoy a firmer scrub. Their long shape also makes it easier to reach your back.
Learn more in our guide to Japanese exfoliating shower towels.
Which body brush or exfoliating towel is right for you?
A body brush that has been ethically made from sustainably sourced timber and natural fiber bristles is recommended. They come in many shapes and sizes. Some prefer body brushes with long handles as they help with difficult-to-reach areas, while others prefer those with ergonomic short handles or brushes held in the palm of your hand.
Best for: gentle dry brushing
EcoMax Spa Soft Body Brush has soft jute bristles for a gentler dry brushing option.
Shop the dry brush
Best for: wet or dry brushing
Bass Bamboo has a long handle and removable head, and is designed for use on wet or dry skin.
Shop the wet/dry brush
Best for: exfoliating in the shower
Choose Open Weave for a more invigorating scrub that helps you reach your back. Prefer something gentler? Try the Sasawashi Mesh towel.
Shop Open WeaveMoisturise your skin after body brushing
After dry brushing, shower to rinse away loosened skin cells. After wet brushing, rinse your skin and your brush or towel. Then apply a body moisturiser while your skin is still damp. A nourishing body oil is one lovely way to finish.
Can you use body oil with a body brush?
You can use body oil with either method:
- Before wet brushing: Apply a small amount to your skin to help the brush glide smoothly.
- After dry brushing: Once you’ve showered, massage the oil into damp skin to help lock in moisture.
How can body oil enhance your routine?
✓ Deep moisturisation: Body oil helps keep freshly exfoliated skin feeling moisturised for longer.
✓ Nourishment: Many body oils contain plant oils rich in fatty acids and antioxidants that nourish the skin.
✓ Better absorption: Applying oil to damp skin after brushing helps it spread smoothly and lock in moisture.
✓ Non-greasy finish: A well-formulated body oil can leave skin feeling soft and supple without a greasy residue.
Rasasara Skinfood Vata Body Nourishing Oil
Made in Melbourne with black sesame oil and a warm vanilla and cardamom scent. Especially suited to dry or mature skin, it leaves skin feeling moisturised and supple without a greasy finish.
Shop the body oilFind the right way to brush or exfoliate your body
Whether you prefer a quick dry brush before showering, wet brushing in the shower, or the feel of a Sasawashi towel, choose the tool and texture that suit your skin and routine.
Shop body brushes Shop Sasawashi towelsFrequently asked questions about body brushing
How do you clean and care for a body brush?
Once a week, clean your brush using natural soap (like castile soap) and water, and dry it in an open, sunny area to prevent mildew. Spritz with Tea Tree Oil in water solution. To prevent the risk of infection, do not share your brush with anyone.
Who should avoid body brushing?
For dry body brushing to be effective, the bristles of the brush should be quite firm, which could pose a problem for those with sensitive skin. If you have broken or inflamed skin, including eczema or psoriasis, avoid brushing over the inflamed area. Also, avoid brushing over any cuts, wounds, rashes, infections, moles, warts, or other bumps.
Can you dry brush in the shower?
Dry brushing is done on dry skin before you get in the shower. If you want to brush while showering, use a brush designed for wet use. Some body brushes are suitable for both methods.
Is dry brushing good for your skin, or can it cause irritation?
Dry brushing can exfoliate dead skin cells and leave skin feeling smoother. It can also irritate skin if the bristles are too firm or you press too hard. Use gentle pressure, stop if your skin feels sore, and avoid broken or inflamed areas.
What is a wet body brush?
A wet body brush is designed to be used on damp skin in the shower or bath. Check the brush’s care instructions before getting it wet, as some dry brushes are not designed for shower use.
Can you use an exfoliating cloth instead of a wet body brush?
Yes. A shower towel or cloth can be used to wash and exfoliate your body. For example, the Sasawashi Mesh towel gives a gentler scrub, while the Open Weave towel gives a firmer one.
Related reads
How to exfoliate your skin naturally
What is the best Japanese exfoliating towel?
