Dry brushing is gaining popularity as a skincare ritual, with many embracing it for its potential skin benefits. However, like any other social media trend, trying it without understanding its purpose, benefits, and risks may do more harm than good. In this edition of HT Lifestyle’s ‘Is It Worth It’ series, we spoke to Dr Swetha Sridhar, medical director at Dr Swetha’s Skin Sutra Clinic, to decode the benefits and limitations of dry brushing and whether it is worth adding to your skincare routine.
Dr Swetha highlighted that dry brushing can be included in a skincare routine, but it is important to keep its benefits realistic. The bristles can help loosen and remove some dead skin cells from the surface, leaving the skin temporarily smoother and softer. For those who want to try it, gentle brushing on intact skin is preferable, followed by a moisturiser to restore hydration. It should complement rather than replace evidence-based skincare such as regular moisturising and appropriate sun protection. Its value lies primarily in superficial exfoliation, and expectations should remain modest. If brushing causes persistent redness, burning, itching, or irritation, it should be discontinued.
Because of increased superficial blood flow caused by friction, it may also give the skin a temporary flushed appearance.
“From a dermatological perspective, the main benefit of dry brushing is physical exfoliation,” she added. “So, dry brushing can be a pleasant exfoliation ritual for some people, but it is not an essential skincare step,” highlighted Dr Swetha.
