Exfoliate for a Healthier and Glowing Skin
The skin plays such an important role in protecting our body. As we age, the collagen and elastin production decreases, thus, a good skincare routine helps regenerate skin cell production to keep our skin looking healthy. Exfoliating our body is one of the regimens that we must consider.
What is Exfoliation?
It’s the removal of dead skin cells and built-up dirt from the skin's surface. The term comes from the Latin word exfoliare. This is a regular practice within the cosmetic industry, both for its outcome of promoting skin regeneration as well as providing a deep cleanse of the skin barrier.
Why Exfoliate?
Naturally, our skin sheds dead skin every 30 days or so. When this happens, new skin cells form on the top layer of the skin which needs to be taken off the surface. And exfoliating is the process that helps us get rid of dead skins, prevent clogged pores and allows skin care products to penetrate your skin more efficiently.
Difference between Physical vs. Chemical Exfoliation
Physical Exfoliation - requires manual labour on your part. Include scrubs, pumice stones, and dry brushes. These tools help remove dead skin from the surface as you scrub or brush your skin.
Chemical Exfoliation - lets the product do the work. Include water-soluble alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid and oil-soluble beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. These products work to remove dead skin by going below the surface to dissolve the bonds holding skin cells together. They are more effective than their physical counterparts but can also cause irritation if used incorrectly. Retinols and retinoids, and other serums that you may be using may already contain AHAs and other exfoliating ingredients without being labeled as exfoliants. Take note, one exfoliant is enough, otherwise you may run the risk of over exfoliating and stripping of your skin's natural oils.
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
Most experts recommend exfoliating two to three times a week as part of your weekly skincare routine - if your skin can handle it. It is also best to know your skin type when exfoliating.
Knowing your Skin Type
Normal Skin - 2 to 3 times a week generally offers a safe starting point. You can exfoliate more frequently if your skin tolerates it well. Most products are likely safe to use.
Oily Skin or Acne-Prone - 2 or 3 times a week if their skin can tolerate it. Best to use products with BHA (beta hydroxy acid), which assists in unclogging pores without affecting oil production, and prevent and treat breakouts.
Dry and Sensitive Skin - these skin types should only exfoliate once or twice a week. If your skin is particularly sensitive, you might even want to skip it entirely. Use gentle chemical formulas like glycolic acid for dry skin. And gentle products formulated for sensitive skin and look for natural enzymes like papaya and pomegranate for sensitive skin.
Is it better to Exfoliate at Night or in the Morning?
It depends on your skin needs. Exfoliating in the morning is ideal as the skin repairs itself at night, although anytime of the day will work. Daily makeup wearers should exfoliate at night to help remove leftover residue.
How to Exfoliate Your Face?
Exfoliating your face can be done any time of the day. For a fresh-faced look, some prefer doing it in the morning, while others do it at night to remove buildup of dead skin or make up residue. To exfoliate your face, make sure to cleanse using a gentle formula to wash off dirt and rinse thoroughly.
If you are using a chemical exfoliant, make sure to read the directions on the label and apply as recommended.
For physical method: 1. Apply a pea-sized amount to your forehead, chin, nose, and cheeks. 2. Use a soft facial cleansing brush, sponge, or washcloth to massage into your skin with gentle circular motions for around 30 seconds. 3. Rinse with cool or lukewarm water.
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How to Exfoliate Your Body?
Exfoliating the body is different from exfoliating the face. This may involve more abrasive products, body exfoliating gloves, body sponges, pumice stones, and other body scrubs that you do not want to use on your face.
Steps to exfoliate your body, we recommend doing it in the shower: 1. Cleanse first. 2. Take your chosen exfoliant and gently rub it onto your skin in a circular motion. 3. Rinse. 4. Apply lotion or cream directly afterward. 5. For trickier areas, like your feet, you can buy specially formulated scrubs and peels or use a pumice stone.
Avoid exfoliating areas with cuts, sores, or broken skin until you heal. And, of course, if you notice any irritation, give your body a rest for a few days.
In conclusion, every skin is different. You may have to try a few products before you can find the routine that works for you. Always remember: Be good to your skin, you’ll wear it every day for the rest of your life.
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