Skin brushing provides deep, steady tactile input that helps the brain and body feel more grounded and organized. For kids who are very sensitive to touch, it can help them become more comfortable with texture and touch. For sensory-seekers, it can give the satisfying, calming pressure they’re craving. In both cases, it’s a gentle way to support body awareness and regulation.
Skin brushing is often done as part of a sensory diet.

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What to use?

If you have a skin brush to use, great! You can buy one we like here. If you don’t happen to have one, you can use a soft bristled hairbrush, a paintbrush, or even a fleece blanket.

This technique provides the most input for your child on bare skin, but if you would not otherwise get it done, feel free to go over the top of clothes.

Some kids that are hypersensitive may not tolerate directly on the skin and performing over clothing first may help them become more tolerant to this new type of touch. Most importantly, if your child pulls away or asks you to stop, don’t force it. Encourage them to participate by letting them brush you or their favorite stuffed animal. If your child doesn’t want to hold still for this process, that’s okay! Find a toy, a book to look at, or just sneak skin brushing (or even part of it) in while they play.

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How to perform Skin Brushing

1. Gather What You Need

• A soft sensory brush
• A comfortable spot where your child can sit or stand
• 1–2 minutes of uninterrupted time

2. Hold the Brush Correctly

• Hold the brush horizontally when brushing bare skin.
• Use a steady grip so the brush stays in full contact with the skin.

3. Use Firm, Even Pressure

• Press just enough for the bristles to bend slightly, but not enough to scratch.
• The brush should glide smoothly — not tickle, and not hurt.

4. Brush in a Consistent Direction

• Use slow, long strokes from the top of the limb down toward the hands or feet.
• Try to keep the brush in contact with the skin the whole time.

5. Follow the Recommended Order

To keep things predictable for the nervous system, follow a simple top-to-bottom routine:

1. Arm (top to bottom)
2. Other arm
3. Back (starting at the neck)
4. Leg (starting at the hip)
5. Other leg
6. Hands and feet if tolerated

6. Avoid Sensitive Areas

• Skip the face, chest, belly, and any spots that look irritated or uncomfortable.
  

7. Finish With Joint Compressions

Right after brushing, do a quick round of joint compressions to help “seal in” the organizing input.

8. Keep It Quick

The whole brushing routine should take about 1–2 minutes, max.

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Safety & Precautions for Skin Brushing

Skin brushing can be a wonderful tool to help regulate your child’s sensory system — but like any deep-pressure technique, it works best (and most safely) when done thoughtfully. Here’s what to keep in mind to make sure it’s helpful, not harmful.

• Brushing Should Not Hurt
  Use firm, steady strokes — but the brushing should never feel scratchy, painful, or irritating. Adjust pressure if your child says they feel uncomfortable or “too much.”
• Stick to Safe Areas
  Focus on the arms, legs, back, hands, and feet. Avoid highly sensitive regions like the face and belly unless your child specifically asks for it (and does so calmly).
• Use Correct Brush & Technique
  Use a soft-bristled brush that’s appropriate for skin brushing. Hold it horizontally when brushing bare skin, and apply enough pressure so the bristles bend slightly.
• Keep Physical Contact With the Brush
  Maintain contact with the skin — lifting the brush repeatedly can “alert” the nervous system, which reduces the calming organizing effect.
• Avoid Brushing Over Injured or Irritated Skin
  Don’t brush over rashes, open skin, or very tender areas. If there’s swelling, bruising, or a known skin condition, skip those areas or check in with your child’s OT first.
• Follow Brushing With Joint Compressions
  Skin brushing is most effective when it’s immediately followed by joint compressions.
• Be Mindful of Frequency
  Many brushing protocols (like the Wilbarger) recommend brushing every 90 minutes to 2 hours for the “intense phase.” That said, how often you do it should be guided by your child’s OT and what your family routine allows.
• Watch for Over-Stimulation
  Even though skin brushing is “deep pressure,” some children might initially become more aroused. Watch for signs like restlessness, trouble sleeping, or heightened irritability — and talk with your OT if they show unexpected or strong reactions.
• Replace or Inspect the Brush Regularly
  Make sure the bristles are still soft and not scratchy. A worn-down or rough brush may hurt rather than help.
• Talk With Your OT
  If your child has medical issues (e.g., very fragile skin, recent injury, sensitive skin conditions), or if you’re unsure whether skin brushing is appropriate, consult their occupational therapist. They can tailor the technique for safety and effectiveness.

Learn about Sensory Processing Disorder.
Want more structured sensory activity ideas? Check out our Sensory Diet Activity Cards.