Exfoliation is an essential step in any good skincare routine. The exfoliation process describes a treatment that removes the layers of dead skin on your face and body. According to dermatologists, the body sheds skin cells every 30 days. Without exfoliation, dead cells remain on the outer layer of your skin, giving it a dull appearance.
Skin exfoliation removes the older cells and gives room for newer cells to flourish. Your skin will look more radiant, refreshed, and healthy. The exfoliation process can also remove blackheads, acne spots, and clogged pores. Plus, it smooths the skin tone, increases elasticity, and reduces the occurrence of wrinkles or fine lines.
There are many skin exfoliation techniques available, from professional facial treatments to various skincare products. The best face or body exfoliator varies from individual to individual, based on your skin type and beauty goals. An important aspect of exfoliation is making sure you follow the correct procedures. There's a right way to exfoliate your body properly to achieve the best results.
Here are some tips on how to exfoliate your body properly:
When to Exfoliate
Exfoliation works wonderfully during a shower. Since you have limited time in your schedule, it's tempting to exfoliate by the sink and continue with your day. However, consider getting into the shower for a fully satisfying experience. Warm water opens up your pores and also drives your cells to produce natural oils after exfoliating.
Since you're close to a body of water, pay attention to the water temperature. Use warm to hot water since you need to wash away the dead cells. Run the water over your skin for 5 to 10 minutes before you begin. After scrubbing, run your face and body under moderately hot water to remove the dead skin cells.
How to Exfoliate Body Properly
After exfoliating, you expect to have glowing skin. However, it might be confusing when you still notice dulling and acne after all your efforts. The process might seem ineffective because you have not performed the exfoliation procedure properly. Ask yourself the following questions about how you exfoliate your body:
- Have you followed the correct steps? Many exfoliators come with specific instructions on how to apply the product, which you should always read before use. The best exfoliation products won't yield effective results unless you follow the proper procedures.
- Are you using the right amount of product? Applying too much or too little exfoliation could slow down the progress you want to see on your face and body. You may even suffer from signs of over exfoliated skin.
- Do you practice good hygiene? Using dirty fingers to apply exfoliation products can further clog the skin. Instead, ensure your fingers are clean before they touch any exfoliator. Rinse off the product carefully after two minutes or as recommended on the packaging. Don't get sloppy with your routine.
Along with your exfoliation routine at home, consider visiting Beauty Med for our range of exfoliation treatments. Our chemical peels are effective, reliable, and conducted by qualified technicians. The Beauty Med team follows the correct protocols to ensure your exfoliation routine yields the best results.
Best Exfoliating Products
Surprisingly, the best body exfoliators are often available in your household. If you don't have products in your makeup cabinet, you can exfoliate with everyday items from the kitchen. A powdery blend of coconut oil and coffee can serve as effective home remedies for glowing skin. Other ingredients like oatmeal and baking powder will work for scrubbing the body.
Consider your skin type when applying the best exfoliating products. For instance, choose products with low BHA (beta hydroxy acid) and AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) content if you have sensitive skin. For under your eyes, you may like to exfoliate with an acid serum, even if you started with a homemade scrub.
Depending on sensitivity, some dermatologists recommend using washcloths instead of sponges since the latter sometimes scratches the skin. You can get other tools like exfoliating gloves, loofahs, and bath brushes to help with the process.
Exfoliating Scrub
Beyond the layers of dead skin, acne scars and ingrown hairs can make your skin look rough. Thankfully, body scrubs can remove these unwanted bits and improve your skin texture. Body scrubs are generally safe for all skin types since many of them contain natural ingredients. For the best results, use a body scrub three times a week. You can either prepare your scrub at home or purchase from your favourite brands.
When using an exfoliator, don't be afraid to put some pressure on your hands while scrubbing your body. Dainty motions will hardly remove the dead skin. Assert gentle force to feel the texture of your skin, but don't press so hard that it hurts the body. Using a loofah or brush, exfoliate the body in circular motions.
Exfoliating Moisturizer
After a scrub, you might feel an itch or even notice redness on your skin. Since you removed older cells, your skin feels particularly raw at this point. Start by patting your skin with a dry towel. Then, use a moisturizer after exfoliating to help your cells retain moisture.
The exfoliating moisturizer soothes your skin and reduces irritation. Avoid heavy products like shea butter, which can clog your pores and undo the effects of the scrub.
Chemical Exfoliant for Body
If you have skin conditions like acne and dark spots, you may need to activate responses from more potent exfoliators. Depending on your skin type, you may benefit from treating acne and breakout with chemical exfoliants. These products contain chemicals like glycolic acid and salicylic acid, which penetrate the pores to cause new cell production.
Chemical exfoliants are powerful, but you should handle them with care and consult with a beauty professional for any questions. Avoid using sponges and brushes with these chemical products. It can cause friction, potentially irritating and damaging the skin. Instead, dab the exfoliating product on your skin with a cotton pad.