Quick take: If you’re pregnant or postpartum and looking for a dry brush that actually works, start with the Kitsch brush.
It was 3am, and I was standing in the shower at 36 weeks pregnant, trying to scrub my ankles with a loofah that just wasn’t cutting it. My skin felt like sandpaper, my legs were swollen, and I was desperate for something—anything—that could give me that elusive ‘glow’ everyone promised dry brushing would deliver. I’d heard the hype: smoother skin, less puffiness, even a boost to circulation. But after trying six different brushes over two pregnancies and the postpartum slog, I can tell you this: not all dry brushes are created equal. Some left my skin raw, others shed bristles like a cheap broom, and a few actually made a difference—if you used them the right way. Here’s what really matters when you’re choosing a dry brush, especially during pregnancy or with a newborn in tow. First, the bristles: natural boar or sisal can be too harsh on sensitive, stretched skin, while synthetic or soft plant-based options might not exfoliate enough. Second, the grip: if you can’t hold it comfortably with one hand (because, let’s be honest, you’ll often be balancing a baby or a bump), it’s useless. Third, versatility: can it double as a shower brush, or is it strictly for dry use? And finally, durability: will it hold up after 100 washes, or fall apart after a month? I tested these brushes through the itchy third trimester, the postpartum puffiness, and the rare moments I had five minutes to myself. Here’s what worked, what didn’t, and which one I’d actually pack in my hospital bag.
Our top picks at a glance
Quick comparison
1. Kitsch Dry Brushing Body Brush for Lymphatic Drainage — The gentle workhorse
I’ll admit, I was sceptical about the Kitsch brush at first—it looked too soft to actually exfoliate. But after using it every morning for three months, I’m a convert. The bristles are firm enough to buff away flaky skin (a godsend during my third trimester when my legs felt like a desert) but gentle enough that I could use it on my belly without wincing. The wooden handle is lightweight and fits perfectly in my palm, even when I was juggling a newborn in the other arm. I loved that it doubled as a shower brush; after dry brushing, I’d hop in and use it with body wash for a deeper scrub. The cotton strap is a small but brilliant detail—it kept the brush secure in my hand when my palms were sweaty or soapy. After 100+ uses, the bristles are still intact, though I did notice a few loose ones after the first few washes. My only gripe? The price. At £11, it’s not cheap, but it’s the only brush I’ve used that I’d actually repurchase. If you’re pregnant or postpartum and your skin is more sensitive than usual, this is the one to try.
- Soft bristles won’t irritate sensitive or stretched skin
- Comfortable grip with a secure cotton strap for one-handed use
- Doubles as a dry and wet brush—versatile for shower use
- Durable; held up well after months of daily use
- A few bristles shed in the first few washes
- More expensive than basic options
- Not as firm as boar bristle brushes for deep exfoliation
Not ideal for: Those who want aggressive exfoliation
2. POPCHOSE Dry Brush for Lymphatic Drainage, Dry Brushing Body Brush — The budget-friendly classic
The POPCHOSE brush was the first dry brush I ever tried, and it’s still the one I recommend to friends who aren’t sure if dry brushing is for them. At under £7, it’s an easy entry point, and the natural boar bristles feel surprisingly luxurious—firm enough to slough off dead skin but not so harsh that they leave red marks. I used it mostly for dry brushing before showers, and it did a decent job of smoothing out the rough patches on my elbows and knees. The oval shape fits nicely in my hand, and the cotton strap kept it from slipping, even when my palms were damp. That said, it’s not perfect. After about four months of use, the bristles started to splay out, and a few fell out entirely. I also found that it didn’t hold up as well in the shower—after a few weeks of wet use, the wooden handle developed a slight musty smell, even though I hung it to dry. If you’re looking for a no-frills brush that gets the job done without a big investment, this is a solid pick. But if you’re serious about dry brushing, you’ll probably want to upgrade eventually.
- Affordable price point—great for beginners
- Natural boar bristles feel firm and effective
- Comfortable grip with a secure strap
- Easy to rinse and hang to dry
- Bristles shed and splay out over time
- Wooden handle can develop a musty smell if used wet
- Not as durable as pricier options
Not ideal for: Long-term daily users
3. EcoTools Dry Body Brush for Dry Brushing, Smooth Skin, 1 Count — The travel-friendly basic
The EcoTools brush is the smallest and most portable of the bunch, and at £5, it’s the cheapest too. I kept one in my gym bag and another in my suitcase for work trips, and it was handy for quick dry brushing sessions when I didn’t have time for a full routine. The synthetic bristles are firmer than I expected, which was great for exfoliating my feet and legs, but a bit too harsh for my arms or belly during pregnancy. The bamboo handle is lightweight and easy to grip, though it doesn’t have a strap, so I had to be careful not to drop it in the shower. I appreciated that it’s vegan and cruelty-free, and the packaging is eco-friendly, which is a plus if you’re trying to reduce waste. But it’s not without its flaws. The bristles started to feel scratchy after a few months, and the handle developed a few rough spots where the bamboo splintered slightly. It’s also not as effective for lymphatic drainage as some of the other brushes—I never felt that ‘awakened’ sensation I got from the Kitsch or goop brushes. If you’re looking for a cheap, no-frills brush for occasional use, this is fine. But if you’re serious about dry brushing, you’ll want something more substantial.
- Super affordable and portable
- Firm synthetic bristles for deep exfoliation
- Vegan and eco-friendly materials
- Fits easily in a gym bag or suitcase
- No strap—easy to drop in the shower
- Bristles can feel scratchy over time
- Handle may splinter after prolonged use
Not ideal for: Daily or sensitive skin users
4. DEBETOOL Dry Brush Set with 3 Detachable Heads, Natural Boar Bristle — The multi-tasking set
The DEBETOOL set is the most versatile of the bunch, with three detachable heads: a soft facial brush, a firmer body brush, and a massage head. I loved that I could switch between them depending on what I needed—gentle exfoliation for my face, deeper scrubbing for my legs, or a lymphatic drainage massage for my arms. The long handle is a game-changer for reaching my back, and the anti-slip silicone sleeve kept it secure in my hand, even when it was wet. The natural boar bristles are high-quality and didn’t shed much, even after months of use. But let’s be real: this set is overkill for most people. I found myself reaching for the body brush 90% of the time and ignoring the other heads. The facial brush was too harsh for my sensitive skin, and the massage head didn’t feel much different from using my hands. The detachable design is clever, but it also means more parts to lose or misplace. And at £10, it’s not the cheapest option. If you’re serious about dry brushing and want a set that covers all the bases, this is a great choice. But if you’re just looking for a simple brush, you’ll probably be happier with something simpler.
- Three detachable heads for different uses
- Long handle with anti-slip grip for hard-to-reach areas
- High-quality boar bristles that don’t shed much
- Comes in biodegradable packaging
- Overkill for most users—many won’t use all three heads
- Facial brush may be too harsh for sensitive skin
- More expensive than single brushes
Not ideal for: Those who prefer simplicity
5. goop Beauty Dry Brush | Detoxifying Body Exfoliator… — The gentle luxury pick
The goop Beauty brush is the most expensive of the bunch, and it shows. The biodegradable sisal fibres are softer than boar bristles but still effective at exfoliating, making it the gentlest option I tried. I used it mostly during my second trimester when my skin was at its most sensitive, and it never left me feeling raw or irritated. The wooden handle is smooth and comfortable, and the brush itself is lightweight, which made it easy to use even when my wrists were achy. But is it worth £25? That’s a tough call. The bristles are so soft that they don’t provide the same deep exfoliation as firmer brushes, so if you’re looking for a brush that really buffs away dry skin, this isn’t it. It’s also not as durable as some of the cheaper options—I noticed the bristles starting to fray after about three months of use. If you have reactive skin or just want a brush that feels like a spa treatment, this is a lovely pick. But if you’re on a budget or want something more heavy-duty, you can skip it.
- Gentlest bristles—ideal for sensitive or reactive skin
- Biodegradable sisal fibres are eco-friendly
- Lightweight and comfortable to hold
- Feels luxurious and spa-like
- Expensive for what it is
- Bristles fray over time
- Too soft for deep exfoliation
Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or deep exfoliation seekers
6. MainBasics Dry Brushing Body Brush — The firm all-rounder
The MainBasics brush is the one I’d recommend if you want a no-nonsense, firm brush that gets the job done. The natural boar bristles are stiff enough to exfoliate deeply but not so harsh that they leave marks, and the compact handle fits comfortably in my hand. I used it mostly for dry brushing before showers, and it did a great job of smoothing out rough patches on my elbows and knees. The strap kept it secure, even when my palms were sweaty, and I appreciated that it could be used wet or dry. That said, it’s not without its flaws. The bristles shed more than I’d like, especially in the first few weeks, and the handle developed a slight wobble after a few months of use. It’s also not as gentle as the Kitsch or goop brushes, so if your skin is sensitive or you’re pregnant, you might find it too abrasive. But if you’re looking for a firm, effective brush that won’t break the bank, this is a solid choice.
- Firm boar bristles for deep exfoliation
- Compact handle with a secure strap
- Can be used wet or dry
- Affordable price point
- Bristles shed over time
- Handle may wobble after prolonged use
- Too harsh for sensitive skin
Not ideal for: Sensitive or reactive skin users
How to choose
What to look for
Choosing the right dry brush comes down to four key factors: bristles, grip, versatility, and durability. First, the bristles. Natural boar bristles are the most common and provide a firm exfoliation, but they can be too harsh for sensitive skin, especially during pregnancy or postpartum when your skin is more reactive. If you’re prone to eczema or irritation, look for softer options like plant-based sisal (like the goop brush) or synthetic bristles (like the EcoTools brush). Next, the grip. If you’re using the brush while pregnant or holding a baby, you’ll want something that’s comfortable to hold with one hand. A strap is a game-changer here—it keeps the brush secure in your palm, even when your hands are wet or slippery. The Kitsch and POPCHOSE brushes both have sturdy cotton straps, while the DEBETOOL set includes an anti-slip silicone sleeve on the handle. Versatility matters too. Some brushes are designed for dry use only, while others can double as shower brushes. If you’re short on time (and let’s be honest, who isn’t with a baby?), a brush that works both ways is a huge plus. The MainBasics and POPCHOSE brushes are great for this, as they can be used with body wash for a deeper scrub. Finally, durability. A good dry brush should last at least six months with regular use. Boar bristle brushes tend to shed over time, while synthetic or sisal bristles may fray. Check the brand’s recommendations for replacement—most suggest swapping out your brush every 4-6 months to avoid bacteria buildup. The Kitsch and DEBETOOL brushes held up the best in my testing, while the EcoTools and POPCHOSE brushes showed wear sooner.
Common mistakes to avoid
The biggest mistake I see people make with dry brushing is going too hard, too fast. It’s tempting to scrub aggressively, especially if you’re dealing with dry skin or cellulite, but this can leave your skin raw or irritated—especially if you’re pregnant or postpartum. Start with gentle strokes and let your skin adjust. Another common error is using the wrong brush for your skin type. If you have sensitive skin, a firm boar bristle brush will likely do more harm than good. Stick to softer options like the Kitsch or goop brushes. Timing matters too. Dry brushing is most effective when done on dry skin before a shower, but many people use their brushes in the shower with water and body wash. While some brushes (like the MainBasics) are designed for wet use, others (like the EcoTools) aren’t. Using the wrong brush wet can lead to bristle damage or a musty smell. Always check the product description before wetting your brush. Finally, don’t fall for the hype around lymphatic drainage. While dry brushing can stimulate circulation, it’s not a miracle cure for puffiness or cellulite. If you’re using a brush specifically for lymphatic drainage (like the Kitsch or DEBETOOL), focus on gentle, upward strokes toward your heart—not aggressive scrubbing. And if you have any medical conditions, like varicose veins or circulation issues, check with your midwife or doctor before starting a dry brushing routine.
Budget vs premium — is more expensive worth it?
The short answer? Not always. The most expensive brush I tested, the goop Beauty brush at £25, is undeniably luxurious—it feels spa-like and is gentle enough for sensitive skin. But is it five times better than the £5 EcoTools brush? Not really. The goop brush’s soft sisal bristles are great for gentle exfoliation, but they don’t provide the same deep scrub as firmer options like the MainBasics or POPCHOSE brushes. If you’re looking for a brush that buffs away dry skin, you might be disappointed. On the other hand, the Kitsch brush (£11) justifies its price with durability and versatility. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin but firm enough to exfoliate, and it holds up well over time. The DEBETOOL set (£10) is another premium pick that’s worth the splurge if you want a multi-functional brush with detachable heads. Budget brushes like the EcoTools and POPCHOSE options are great for beginners or occasional users, but they won’t last as long. The EcoTools brush’s synthetic bristles fray over time, and the POPCHOSE brush’s wooden handle can develop a musty smell if used wet. If you’re serious about dry brushing, investing in a mid-range or premium brush will save you money in the long run—you won’t have to replace it as often. But if you’re just dipping your toes in, a cheaper brush is a fine place to start.
Safety + when to ask your doctor
Dry brushing is generally safe for most people, but pregnancy and postpartum come with their own set of considerations. If you have sensitive skin, eczema, or varicose veins, be extra gentle—start with soft bristles and light pressure. Avoid dry brushing over broken skin, rashes, or areas with active irritation. Lymphatic drainage is often touted as a benefit of dry brushing, but if you have circulation issues, a history of blood clots, or other medical conditions, it’s best to check with your midwife or doctor before starting. While dry brushing can stimulate circulation, it’s not a substitute for medical treatment. Finally, always replace your brush every 4-6 months to avoid bacteria buildup, especially if you’re using it in the shower. If you notice bristles shedding excessively or the handle developing rough spots, it’s time for a new one. When in doubt, defer to a healthcare professional—your skin’s health is worth it.
How we picked
I tested these six dry brushes over six months, using each one for at least two weeks to assess its effectiveness, comfort, and durability. My criteria included bristle softness (critical for sensitive pregnancy skin), grip comfort (especially for one-handed use), versatility (dry and wet use), and how well the brush held up after repeated washing. I also considered value for money, as well as any unique features like detachable heads or eco-friendly materials. Prices and availability may change on Amazon, so always check the latest listings before purchasing. My goal was to find brushes that actually work for real-life parents—not just the ones with the best marketing.
Frequently asked questions
Is dry brushing safe during pregnancy?
Dry brushing is generally safe during pregnancy, but you should be extra gentle, especially if your skin is sensitive or stretched. Avoid brushing over your belly if it feels uncomfortable, and stick to soft bristles to prevent irritation. If you have varicose veins or circulation issues, check with your midwife before starting. Always listen to your body—if it feels too harsh, stop.
How often should I dry brush?
For most people, dry brushing 2-3 times a week is enough to see benefits without over-exfoliating. If your skin is sensitive or you’re pregnant, start with once a week and see how your skin reacts. Over-brushing can lead to irritation, so it’s better to err on the side of caution. Always moisturise after dry brushing to lock in hydration.
Can I use a dry brush in the shower?
Some dry brushes, like the MainBasics and POPCHOSE, are designed for wet or dry use, but others aren’t. Using a brush not meant for wet use can damage the bristles or cause the handle to develop a musty smell. Always check the product description before wetting your brush. If you prefer wet use, look for brushes labelled as shower-safe.
Does dry brushing help with cellulite?
Dry brushing can temporarily improve the appearance of cellulite by stimulating circulation and smoothing the skin’s surface, but it’s not a permanent fix. Regular exfoliation can help, but genetics, diet, and hydration play bigger roles in cellulite. If you’re hoping for noticeable results, combine dry brushing with other healthy habits like staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet.
What’s the best way to clean a dry brush?
To clean your dry brush, rinse it under warm water with a mild soap after each use, then shake off excess water and hang it to dry. Avoid soaking the handle, as this can cause wood to warp or develop mould. Every few weeks, deep-clean the bristles with a gentle shampoo or vinegar solution to remove buildup. Replace your brush every 4-6 months to avoid bacteria.
Can I use a dry brush on my face?
Most dry brushes are too harsh for facial skin, but some sets, like the DEBETOOL, include a softer facial brush. If you want to dry brush your face, use a brush specifically designed for it, and be extra gentle—facial skin is more delicate. Avoid brushing over active breakouts or irritated skin, and always moisturise afterwards.
Why do dry brushes shed bristles?
Bristle shedding is normal, especially with natural boar bristle brushes. Some shedding in the first few uses is typical, but if it continues excessively, the brush may be low-quality or nearing the end of its lifespan. Synthetic or sisal bristles shed less but may fray over time. If your brush is shedding a lot, it’s probably time to replace it.
The verdict
If you’re pregnant or postpartum and looking for a dry brush that actually works, start with the Kitsch brush. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin but effective enough to exfoliate, and the comfortable grip makes it easy to use even when you’re exhausted. For those on a budget, the POPCHOSE brush is a solid entry point, though it won’t last as long. If your skin is reactive or eczema-prone, the goop Beauty brush is the gentlest option, but it’s pricey for what it is. During the first trimester, when your skin is still relatively normal, you can get away with a firmer brush like the MainBasics. But as your bump grows and your skin stretches, switch to something softer to avoid irritation. Postpartum, when your skin is at its most sensitive, stick to the Kitsch or goop brushes. Ultimately, the best dry brush is the one you’ll actually use. If you’re short on time, pick a versatile option like the MainBasics that works wet or dry. If you’re serious about lymphatic drainage, the DEBETOOL set is worth the splurge. And if you’re just dipping your toes in, start with the budget-friendly POPCHOSE brush and see how it goes. Dry brushing won’t solve all your skin woes, but with the right brush, it can be a small moment of self-care in an otherwise chaotic day.
