This, not That
Hello Beautiful! I’ve been hearing about a lot of different fad skincare products that influencers and celebrities just rave about that aren’t the best for your skin. Because of this, I am starting a segment called this, not that. You wouldn’t feed your body food that is not good for you, so why would you feed your skin products that don’t help it?
Facial Wipes: These are great for the girl on the go, but they don’t give you the best cleanse. Used daily, makeup remover wipes can create friction and tear your skin. They also contain a lot of alcohol and preservatives that are not good for sensitive skin.
Instead, Use A gentle facial cleanser that will actually clear out your pores. I have some great options.
Biore Pore Strips: These strips can also cause tears in your skin or further irritate already sensitive skin.
Instead, Use A gentle, deep-cleansing toner. Here is my favorite toner: Face Reality’s Calming Facial Toner with beautiful hints of rose, perfect for dry/normal skin types, or Sal C-Toner, great for oily/acneic skin types. Book here.
Peel-Off Mask: These popular peel-off masks may help remove dirt and buildup from your pores, they also remove precious skin cells and even vellus hair, leaving skin raw and ready for irritation. Charcoal cannot identify between the good and bad cells, so it removes them all.
Instead, Use Come see me ;) Instead of a store-bought peel-off mask, we can talk about some DIY options and give you a results-oriented facial while we’re at it. Book your appointment here.
There are so many fads out there that claim to be great for your skin but do not give you the benefits they promise. If you are ever questioning a product or want to talk about what’s right for your skin, send me a message on Facebook. Let’s chat it out :)
XOXO,
Tana Marie
What is Retinol?
Hello Beautiful! I’ve gotten a few questions about this topic and I’m here to help you understand what retinol is, how to use it, and the benefits it gives you.
Retinol
Retinol is a type of retinoid that works to increase collagen production as well as increases the rate of skin cell turnover. They help treat acne, blackheads, and clogged pores by reducing the cells that clog pores. They also speed up the rate at which skin cells regenerate.
These wonderful benefits improve your skin’s overall texture by minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, evening out skin tone, and decreasing pore size.
Options
When it comes to retinol, I have an abundance of options for you, all with different benefits.
Calm: our most gentle Vitamin A Serum designed to rejuvenate deep into the skin - $78
Correct: one of the most powerful, non-inflammatory rejuvenation serums available - $86
Renew: Spoil your skin with the most advanced, age-reversing formula available - $96
Clarify: Blemish-prone skin has met its match with this powerful vitamin A serum - $60
How to Use
The best part about retinol is that it works on all skin types and should be used as a daily step in your skincare routine.
Step 1: Stick with a gentle cleanser. I have a few options for you linked here.
Step 2: Apply your retinol serum
Step 3: Always follow your retinol with a moisturizer, especially those with hyaluronic acid and ceramides. If you have sensitive skin, you should add your moisturizer before your retinol.
If this is your first time using retinol, I recommend easing it into your routine by applying once a week and working up to every other or every night, depending on how your skin reacts.
Step 4: Don’t forget your SPF daytime of course!
If you’re curious about how to layer other products in your skincare routine, I can help! Visit this blog: “How to Layer Skincare Products.”
Benefits
Anti-aging: Retinol prevents wrinkles due to its minimizing effect. It also works to smooth out existing fine lines and wrinkles because it helps your skin produce collagen, elasticity, and encourages cell regeneration.
Brightens: Retinol brightens dull skin by exfoliating at a cellular level. The results are brighter, smoother skin.
Decreases acne: Retinol can help regulate oily skin and minimize breakouts.
Improves skin tone: Retinol can help fade dark age spots, sun spots, and is proven to improve hyperpigmentation. It evens out your complexion over time.
Side Effects
Before adding retinol to your skincare routine, it’s my responsibility as an aesthetician to let you know some of the side effects.
Because of its exfoliating powers, when not used in moderation, retinol can cause the skin to redden, peel, or dry out. That is why it is crucial you follow retinol up with a hydrating moisturizer. This may occur even if you do not have sensitive skin. You may experience these side effects when you first introduce retinol, but your skin should stabilize over time. This is why I recommend slowly adding it to your routine.
I’m so excited for you to experience the benefits retinol has to offer and I’m happy to answer any other questions you may have. Just book a consultation with me :)
XOXO,
Tana Marie
The Perfect Derma Peel
Hello Beautiful! My service menu is pretty extensive, so I want to walk you through some of them individually so you can decide if it’s perfect for you. Today I am going over the Perfect Derma Peel, which is perfect for the upcoming Peel season and this one is my absolute favorite!
Description
The Perfect Derma™ Peel is a safe, effective medium depth peel for All Skin Types & Ethnicities. This product is virtually painless, with no pre-peel skin preparation and little downtime. The Perfect Derma™ Peel is the only peel that includes the powerful anti-oxidant Glutathione, which lightens and brightens the skin, slows down the aging process and helps prevent wrinkles.
Benefits
Improve the overall clarity, tone, and texture of the skin
Reduce or eliminate hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and Melasma
Improve acneic skin conditions and reduce acne scars
Stimulate the production of collagen, resulting in firmer, more youthful skin
Reduce the appearance of pore size
Highlights
The Perfect Derma Peel is called perfect for a reason. This peel will give you results in one short session with me without the pain of a chemical peel.
Medical Grade Formulation
Powerful ingredients include TCA, Kojic Acid, Retinoic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Phenol, Vitamin C, and antioxidant Glutathione.
Solve Common Skin Concerns
Sun spots? Acne scars? Dull or aging complexion? The Perfect Derma Peel delivers real results for All Skin Types and Ethnicities.
Results in One Week
I can customize a treatment for anyone who books an appointment with me. Click here to schedule yours today. Tis the season!
The Perfect Derma Peel is a results-driven anti-aging peel that is less invasive. With little downtime and dramatic results, I am excited to be able to offer such a wonderful treatment.
XOXO,
Tana Marie
My Signature Facelift Peel
Hello Beautiful! The Signature Facelift Peel is one of my most beneficial peels, so I thought I would highlight those benefits for you. Keep reading to learn more.
Description
Our signature results-driven treatment combines vitamin C, hydroxy acids, and enzymes to speed up cellular renewal. The new technology of centella stem cells supports redness prone skin and botanical detoxifying and energizing complexes give noticeable results in just one session.
Skin Type
The signature facelift peel is for redness or dry/dehydrated skin.
Benefits
Vitamin C and fruit enzymes blended in aloe vera base with anti-inflammatory botanicals to reduce redness. Hyaluronic acid adds moisture to dry/dehydrated skin. Gently exfoliates while infusing the skin with potent antioxidants.
The signature facelift peel combines enzymes with hydroxy acids and is gentle yet effective. Last month, I wrote an article about the benefits of enzyme peels. Let’s chat about how beneficial enzyme peels are combined with Alpha Hydroxy acids.
The Myth
One of the best things about my signature facelift peel is that your skin doesn’t actually peel. By its very nature, a peel will make your skin peel, but that doesn’t always have to be the case to achieve glowy moisturized skin. Here’s how it happens: the hydroxy acid dissolves the top layer of the dermis, removing thousands of skin cells at a time. Once the peel is removed, so are the dead skin cells, thus eliminating the peeling of your skin.
If you would like to read more benefits about hydroxy acid peels, this article from Allure explains with in-depth research.
Ingredients
Organic aloe vera gel base, Vitamin C Fruit enzyme blend Hyaluronic acid, Centella stems GX™ (centella asiatica stems), Botanica blend - coffee and peppermint, Essential oil blend eucalyptus and ylang ylang, Luminescine, Seashine (undaria pinnatifida extract), Bearberry, Licorice, Mulberry, Mallow extract, Alchemilla vulgaris (lady’s mantle), Arnica montana, Camelia Sinesis (green tea), Comfrey, Blackberry
If you’re convinced that this is the peel for you, let’s book an appointment to give you gorgeous skin.
XOXO,
Tana Marie
What are Enzyme Peels?
Hello Beautiful! You’ve heard about them, you might even have experienced them, but you’re still curious either what it is or the benefits of an enzyme peel. Allow me to explain. We will also chat about the fun advantages of enzyme peels over chemical peels.
Enzymes, a Quick Summary
Have you ever eaten pineapple and felt a little tingle on your tongue? Those would be enzymes and believe it or not, we can use them in facials to attain amazing results.
Enzymes are naturally derived active ingredients found in many fruits. Pomegranate, Pumpkin, Papaya, Pineapple, and Figs are a few examples. They act fast to dissolve dead skin to reveal smoother, healthier skin. They’re potent, but non-abrasive exfoliants for all skin types.
Enzyme peels exfoliate your skin by removing dead skin cells. Other benefits include anti-aging, clear skin, minimized pores, and clearing acne scars.
Enzyme Peel vs. Chemical Peel
While both types of peels yield benefits for your gorgeous skin, there are certain skin types that would benefit more from an enzyme peel.
Sensitive or easily-irritated skin. Like I said before, enzyme peels work hard to exfoliate your skin and remove dead skin cells much like chemical peels. The wonderful difference is that enzyme peels, because of their nature, won’t irritate your skin like chemical peels sometimes can. The purpose of a peel is to exfoliate and prepare your skin to soak in the necessary moisture it needs to be glowy and soft. Enzyme peels do just that, and they’re all-natural.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women. When you’re pregnant, you would do anything to protect your baby and there are so many things to be vigilant of. One way you can protect your skin and your baby is to opt for an enzyme peel instead. Always be sure to speak with your doctor first.
Those with weaker immunity. Anyone who has a history of a weak immune system or recently discovered their immune system is compromised should receive an enzyme peel because the natural products in the peel do not contain harmful ingredients. Always be sure to speak with your doctor first.
An Enzyme Peel is the Peel for Me
Fabulous! Allow me to suggest one of my most famous and effective enzyme peels, the Organic Ormedic Lift Peel. It’s a gentle peel that is good for all skin types to gently exfoliate your skin.
Description
A blend of pumpkin, pineapple, papaya, and mango fruit enzymes and peptides in an organic aloe vera gel base. This non-chemical peel rebalances, regenerates and restores skin while comfrey plant-derived stem cell technology recharges your skin’s stem cells helping to maintain youthfulness.
Skin Type
Unbalanced, irritated, sensitive, and dull-looking skin.
Benefits
Organic aloe vera is the delivery system with a pumpkin pulp exfoliator. Polypeptides provide maximum rejuvenation and hyaluronic acid adds moisture.
Ingredients
Organic aloe vera gel base, Pumpkin pulp, Passion fruit Papaya Pineapple Polypeptides, PhytoCellTec™ Symphytum - comfrey (Symphytum) roots, Botanical blend - coffee and peppermint, Essential oil blend eucalyptus and ylang-ylang, Luminescine, Seashine (undaria pinnatifida extract), Bearberry, Licorice, Mulberry. Mallow extract. Alchemilla Vulgaris (lady’s mantle), Arnica montana, Camelia Sinesis (green tea), Comfrey, Blackberry.
XOXO,
Tana Marie
How to Layer Skincare Products
Hello Beautiful! I want to take a moment to recognize you. My, this year has been strange, but you have overcome the strangeness. Whether you have picked up a new hobby, invested in yourself in some way, or done some self-reflection, you have done something for yourself.
That being said, I have seen a lot of you “skinvest” in yourself and come to see me. I’ve received a lot of questions as many of you begin or dive deeper into your skincare journey. One of those questions that is most frequently asked is “how should I be layering my skincare products?”
I’m here to help! Let’s chat about the different products I recommend you have in your morning and nightly skincare routines (yes, there’s more than one) and how you should layer them.
The Layers
Start with your water-based products first like, toners, serums, and facial sprays like rose water. Why? Because they create a nice, even foundation for which to layer your moisturizer.
Pro Tip: If you have a serum that is thicker than average, then you should layer it after your toner and before your moisturizer.
Hydrate baby! Next comes the moisturizer. The base you laid in step one makes your skin soak in the moisture even more effectively.
Protect. SPF is the last step (and one you should never skip). We layer SPF on last to prevent it from being diluted by the other products in your routine.
Make it up. If you like to wear makeup as I do, this is the last step. A facial mist like a setting spray is okay to use as the last step in your makeup routine.
Morning
Good mornings always start with cleansing your face ;)
Cleanser
Toners, serums,(from thinnest to thickest) and facial mist
Moisturizer
SPF
Make-up
Night
A good night’s sleep always begins with a clean face (sense a pattern here?)
Make-up wipes/ remover
Cleanser
Toner, serums, mists
Moisturizer
Blemish creams
My goal is to create a fantastic skincare journey for you all and part of that is knowing how to effectively use those products you spend so much time researching and so much money on. This blog is a place for you to reference whenever you’re unsure. Whether it’s learning about how to layer your products or about at-home facials, I’ve got you covered.
Have a question or want to know about a different topic? Send me a Facebook message and you’ll see it next month.
XOXO,
Tana Marie
Dermaplaning vs. Shaving
Over the years that I have been spreading the amazing benefits of dermaplaning, I have also heard some rumors about it and I’m here to put the rumor mill to rest: Dermaplaning is NOT shaving. Let’s chat about it.
Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning is a safe and simple, non-invasive method to exfoliate the skin, removing all dead skin cells and ridding the face of vellus hair (peach fuzz)
Tana Marie Skincare Bonus! This service comes with a customized mask or a leave-on exfoliator depending on your skin type and/or need.
Shaving
Here’s what Google says: “Shaving is the removal of hair, by using a razor or any other kind of bladed implement, to slice it down—to the level of the skin or otherwise”
The Difference
What’s the difference? I’m glad you asked because there are two very distinct differences between dermaplaning and shaving.
With dermaplaning, you get a more consistent exfoliation. It fully removes the top layer of dead skin cells to reveal glowy, bright skin. It also removes the peach fuzz we all have, giving you a smoother and fresher complexion. Doesn’t a razor do the same thing? No. Because shaving is all about the “removal of hair,” that’s what your regular razor is designed to do. Your razor’s mission is to get as close to the skin as possible, cutting down the hairs to give you smooth skin. You’ll notice the difference when you book an appointment. The dermaplaning tool will not only remove the skin cells and peach fuzz, but it will exfoliate your skin.
The dermaplaning tool is much gentler than a razor. I use a single edge #10 scalpel blade to skim the surface of your skin to exfoliate. With a regular shaving razor, there are multiple, slanted blades that are often much duller (even fresh out of the packaging) than my scalpel.
The differences are noticeable after you have visited me, so go ahead, experience it for yourself. After getting a dermaplaning treatment, many of my clients boast about how glowy and fresh their skin looks and feels.
It’s an incredible add-on to any facial or skincare treatment that will have you not only seeing results but feeling them too (for weeks). I can’t wait to see you for your next appointment ;)
XOXO,
Tana Marie
How to Take Care of Your Skin in the Summer
Hello Beautiful! It’s already a month into the summer and we’re coming out of quarantine, so I thought I would put together a quick guide on the best ways to take care of your skin during the summertime.
Summertime Skin Tips
Exfoliate your body. I put together a blog on DIY sugar scrubs which you can use to do this. Exfoliating is great for your glow. Get rid of dead skin cells once a week for glowy skin.
Use your SPF! Don’t forget your SPF 30 wherever you go. Add an extra 3 seconds to your morning skincare routine. It’s so easy ;)
Consider a natural look. Makeup can clog pores and using less makeup in your daily look can help your skin breathe.
Water is a must. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day is a must. Remember to drink at least once every 30 minutes to rid your body of toxins and combat dehydration.
Moisturize your skin. Hydrate your body with your favorite summer scented lotion after exfoliation to get that summer glow.
Refresh your skin with a toner. Using a good toner can help you clean out clogged pores. The t-zone of your face has the largest concentration of clogged pores, so focus on that.
Invest in a Vitamin C Serum. Vitamin C is great year-round, but it’s extremely important in the summer because it can help with collagen production. Layer a few drops on your skin between cleansing and moisturizer.
Stay in the shade. Wear sun-protective clothing, wide-brim hats and sunglasses in the sun. You don’t always need to wear long-sleeve shirts, but protecting yourself from the sun is extremely important.
Your skin is important and knowing how to take care of it during different seasons is important too. I hope this guide to taking care of your skin in the summer is helpful and easy to follow. Enjoy!
XOXO,
Tana Marie
5 Skincare Myths Debunked
Hello Beautiful!
2020 sure has been a year for DIY projects, including skincare. With the rise of TikTok and it’s infamous 15-60 second skincare tutorials there has been some information left out. I’m here to help walk you through some of those skincare myths and give you the best advice to achieve the same great benefits, the correct way.
I don’t need sunscreen… What? Of course you do! It doesn’t matter if it’s going to be sunny, cloudy, rainy, or snowy. You NEED your SPF. Make sure you use at least SPF 30. Lucky for you, I know where you can get some great moisturizer with SPF. Click here to shop.
I’m too young to use eye serums and creams. You can never be too young to use eye serums and creams. The skin around your eyes is thin and delicate and it also sees the most makeup coverage which means more scrubbing, rubbing, and cleansing to get it clean. The first signs of aging come at different times for different people, but you can start giving the skin around your eyes some extra attention no matter how old you are. Click here to find an eye cream or serum that’s right for you!
An exfoliant is an important step in my morning and nightly skincare routine. While consistent exfoliation is important for your skin, doing it nightly or every morning, every day can be harmful. When you exfoliate, you remove dead skin cells, and it can give you an amazing glow, but if you do it twice a day or even once a day, you can expose your skin to environmental toxins and the sun. Not to mention, your skin will be red and more sensitive. Exfoliate 2-3 times per week and only apply light pressure. That way, you won’t over-exfoliate.
Coconut oil is a good facial moisturizer. No! Did you know that coconut oil actually clogs pores and can lead to pimples? When applied as a moisturizer, it acts like a plastic film, sitting on top of your skin and not allowing it to breathe. Bacteria and dead cells will stay in your pores longer and lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Ah, scary! It’s okay, just start using a real moisturizer instead. Click here to shop for a few different options.
My pores can open and close, get bigger and smaller. Your pores cannot open or close because they’re not controlled by muscles. Slight warmth can help bring oils out of clogged pores, but switching between extreme temperatures won’t open or close your pores. You can keep your pores clean and unclogged by regularly cleansing and moisturizing.
There you have it! Five 2020 skincare myths debunked. I hope I helped you ramp up your DIY skincare routines in the best way. If you have any questions, just message me on Facebook, or book an appointment to get your skincare journey started.
XOXO,
Tana Marie
What is Microblading?
Okay, so you’ve heard about it on social media and read about it in beauty magazines, but what is microblading? If you keep reading, I will explain microblading and walk you through the whole process. You’ll even get to see some amazing results!
Microblading Explained
Microblading is a permanent cosmetic tattoo technique done with a sterile, manual pen that deposits pigment to the surface layer of the dermis, using a stroking technique. This offers a realistic and dimensional, natural-looking brow that mimics real brow hairs.
The Process
The way to get the best results is to first come in for a consultation with me. We can discuss the best brow shape for your face. When choosing a color, I look at the undertone and overtone of your skin. After I have determined if you’re a good candidate for microblading, we can then schedule both of your appointments 4 weeks apart.
When you come in for your first appointment, I will clean the brow area and prepare it for treatment. Next, I will draw, measure, and re-measure the perfect brow to fit your face shape. This process takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. After that, you will lay under an LED light panel to facilitate the healing.
Four weeks later, I get to see your beautiful face again. At this appointment, I will perform the same process over again, think of it as painting your nails. That first coat is there, but semi-transparent, this second session will seal them and will make all the difference. It is a mandatory session.
Care Afterwards
After your last session, there are a few things you can do to keep your brows beautiful and healthy. The best product you can use on your brows after the microblading process is sunscreen. Of course, this is after they’ve healed. Just like any tattoo, a little SPF 30 can help extend the life of your brows and prevent fading.
Do not use any makeup on the area for at least 9 days, don’t get them wet, sweat and keep them dry! You’ll go home with detailed instructions, along with soap and salve. Following the guidelines of your aftercare is critical to the success of your brows. Once the skin around your brows has healed, you can go back to your normal skincare and makeup routine. You’ll want to be mindful of keeping any Retinols, AHA and BHA’s away from your brows too, as these products can fade them as well.
Results
If you’re still on the fence about if microblading is right for you, then check out these happy ladies and their results. If you’re ready to get fuller, beautiful brows that can help save you time in your morning makeup routine, then click here to schedule an appointment.
Re-opening May 26th
It's been a while and I can't wait to see you all! Per Rock County's guidelines, I can reopen to serve your beautiful faces on Tuesday, May 26th. Even though I can reopen, there will be some things that will be different:
I will wear a mask and gloves to protect you throughout your entire session
I will change my mask and gloves between each client
I have always cleaned and disinfected between clients, which I will continue to do for your health and safety
All my clients must stop at the sink outside my room and wash their hands before entry
All clients should reschedule if they're running a temperature or feel ill
All clients should reschedule if they have a cough or feel like they have allergies they cannot control
All clients will be required to wear a mask before and after services, but not during, of course
If you do not have a mask, I will be providing them for $1 each
I will be running an air purifier in my room
While some things are changing, there are things that will always be the same. I will always be here for you, to help you feel beautiful and to help you take care of your glowing skin!
I can’t wait to see you! If you have already scheduled an appointment, then I will see you soon. If you haven’t already scheduled an appointment, but would like to, click here.
XOXO,
Tana Marie
Jade Rollers: What Are They Good For?
Jade rollers are all over Instagram. These photogenic facial tools are somewhat of a myth to most, but they hold many useful benefits, besides being beautiful in pictures.
Your jade roller doesn’t have to collect dust on your vanity. Instead, use it to extract these benefits for your beautiful skin:
Use it to moisturize. Yep. You heard me right. If your face costs more than your outfit, you feel us here. So much of your skincare products get wasted on your hands and in your nails. Waste no more! Dot your product on your skin and use your jade roller to roll it into your skin for 20 seconds. Your skin will absorb the product and you can use less because your hands don’t absorb the majority of it.
Rid your body of toxins. Just like a good massage, massaging your face with a jade roller will drain the toxins from your body. Roll the jade roller across your cheeks, chin, and forehead. By doing this, you’re opening up pathways and improving lymphatic flow. This reduces puffiness and inflation, especially around your eyes. As you roll, apply light pressure and start on the décolleté and neck to open up pathways and create flow for effective drainage.
Soothe your skin. You can use the naturally cool crystal to soothe your skin. The cool jade roller can soothe rosacea and puffy eyes. The gentle pressure from the crystal will leave your facial muscles feeling more relaxed.
Destress after a long day (or night). Any massage is relaxing, but a facial massage is known to be a stress reliever. Making jade rolling a part of your daily ritual can relieve tension in your facial muscles and can count as your self-care for the day.
Know that you’re taking care of your skin, naturally. A jade facial roller is free from chemicals and additives, so if chemical-free is something important to you in your skincare routine, then jade rollers are the perfect addition to your skincare routine. Because most jade rollers are free of synthetic fragrances, dyes, sulfates, parabens, and mineral oil, it’s safe to use on any skin type.
Jade rollers hold a significant benefit to your skin and can help you feel more relaxed throughout the day. An added benefit of saving more of your skincare products to keep for your face and not your hands is one of the best parts! Below are a few different jade rollers that fit any type of budget and cater to any type of skin.
Herbivore Jade Facial Rollers. Their new Jade Rollers are crafted with improved hardware and higher quality ethically-mined stones to withstand the tests of time and use. The new Jade Rollers improve circulation and vitality, helping to freshen your complexion and luminosity. Each Jade Facial Roller will vary slightly in color and shape since each is made from genuine stone and each stone is unique | $30
Kaesthetics Studio Jade Roller. Jade roller includes a large rolling stone for larger areas of the face like forehead or cheeks and a smaller rolling stone for small areas of the face such as nose or eyes. Each product gets a hand-written note and each jade roller is handmade with naturally sourced jade from northeast China | $19
PURPLE WHALE 100% Natural Grade A Jade Roller. Invigorate, calm and awaken your skin with the help of this 1-Piece Grade A Jade Skin Roller Anti-aging Beauty Tool. A natural alternative to Botox, it helps keep your skin supple, reduce the look of wrinkles and restore a youthful appearance. This jade massage tool features double-ended rollers that allow you to cover both broad and fine-detail areas effectively. | $12
Jade rollers are an easy addition to your skincare routine and can greatly benefit your skin and your well-being. There’s never enough time in the day to invest in yourself, but with jade rollers, it’s easy and fast. I can’t wait to see what you think! Jade rollers will soon be available on my website, so keep an eye out.
XOXO,
Tana Marie
What is Dry Brushing?
You must try Dry Brushing. Your skin will feel amazing and your body will thank you too! Here's how to do it.
Dry brushing the skin really is as simple as it sounds—a firm, bristled brush is swept across the skin, from toe to head. It's called "dry" brushing because you do it before you bathe or shower when your skin and the brush are completely dry.
There are so many good things that come from the regular practice of dry brushing. It’s wonderful for exfoliating dry skin and unclogging pores. It helps detoxify by increasing blood circulation and promotes lymph flow/drainage. Dry brushing also stimulates your nervous system, leaving you feeling invigorated.
Want to experience these benefits? Here are our favorite tips for getting the most out of dry brushing:
Pick the perfect brush. We actually have two favorites that we use: a handleless natural bristle brush for our arms and legs and torso (it comes with a hand strap for an easy grip) and a long-handled natural bristle brush for the back and backs of the thighs and other hard to reach spots. You can find brushes in the bath and beauty section of your favorite store. I like Target! Designate your brushes for dry brushing your skin only. You can rinse and dry your brushes after each use.
Brush towards your heart. When you dry brush, use long, sweeping strokes in the direction of your heart to work with your body's lymph flow. The lymphatic system, found just under the skin, helps to rid your body of toxins and waste. We NEED this! So, start from your toes and make sweeping motions up your legs, and tummy, finally releasing the brushing as you near your heart, where a key lymph drainage point is found. When you are brushing your arms, start at the wrists and brush up towards the shoulder, then down from the collarbone to end near your heart.
Follow up with an oil massage. Some people like to jump in the shower after dry brushing, but for a real treat to your skin, follow up dry brushing with a massage of warm coconut oil or sesame oil into the skin. You can warm the oil by placing the bottle in a sink of warm water or microwave for 10 seconds. Test to make sure it is warm to the touch, not hot. You can also warm oil quickly by rubbing it between your palms before applying.
Our skin is our largest and one of the most active organs in the body. Every minute old skin cells die and new ones are created. Brush your skin while standing on a dark towel and you will notice just how many flakes of old skin are removed! Dry brush your skin weekly for the best results. You can make this a weekly ritual, light a candle, turn down the lights and soak in a warm lavender bath. You'll be ready for the week ahead. Self-care feels so good!
Change the way you see yourself.
XOXO,
Tana Marie