Did you know that the number of times you exfoliate depends on your skin type? People with sensitive skin are advised to avoid daily exfoliation of their skin as it might cause damages to the body. The other skin types have different procedures to get it done right. Also, for exfoliation to work, you need to do it properly. Most people exfoliate just the face while others go full length and exfoliate their whole body. The body parts have procedures used to achieve the perfect goal. The skin is a living organ and deserves to be maintained and kept alive/functional. There are many ways to protect the skin, and one of the best ways is through exfoliation. Before we get into how to exfoliate right, you need to understand what exfoliation is and the different types.
What is exfoliation ?
Dead cells make it hard for skincare products to be absorbed, making it difficult for them to do their work. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the outer layer of the skin. Every day our body comes in contact with bacteria and germs the human eyes cannot see. It is either from environmental elements or with every time we touch our face. By exfoliating, you get rid of these things clogging the skin and making it dull. Exfoliation is done in a circular motion, thereby increasing blood circulation in the face. The circulation brightens the skin and makes your skin glow. It cares the most for your complexion when it comes to skincare routines. When you exfoliate your skin, you get rid of dead cells on the skin, so when next someone asksyou what exfoliation is, you know now!
Types of exfoliation
The two most known types of exfoliation are the mechanical and chemical.
Chemical exfoliation, as the name implies, refers to the use of enzymes that can be very harmful to the skin. When using a chemical exfoliant, it does not require scrubbing as the product comes in a liquid form. The best way to use a chemical exfoliator is by applying it on a clean washcloth and rubbing it in a circular motion on your face. Chemical exfoliant make the skin naturally shed dead particles. People with Acne-prone skin are mostly advised to include salicylic acid and beta hydroxy acids. In our best advice, you should stay away from chemical exfoliations.
Mechanical exfoliation is the use of natural products to get rid of dead cells on your skin. The only difference between the mechanical and chemical types or exfoliation is the amount of pressure you put on the face. With mechanical exfoliation, you mostly scrub to let the products get in and do their work.
Applying too much pressure during mechanical-exfoliation can cause irritation and other skin conditions; that is why this post has been curated to guide you on doing it right. Mechanical exfoliation is the same as physical exfoliation, and it is either done with a tool, your hands or a clean cloth. During mechanical exfoliation, you need to pay attention to the ingredients in the product. Physical exfoliation is affordable and accessible as you can make them at home.
Mechanical exfoliation can be done with honey, coffee, oats, sugar, baking soda, salt and milk. Most of these ingredients are found in your kitchen pantry, and you can also shop for others in our online store.
How to exfoliate properly
To exfoliate correctly, it depends on the products you use. Before we get into the DIY products, here are the three most manageable steps on exfoliation.
I. Get your face damp enough to absorb the scrubbing you have to do. Remember to use warm or cold water. Hot water shrinks the skin and this can lead to wrinkles and rapid aging. To set a base, splash warm water on your face.
II. Massage your exfoliator in a circular motion for about 30 seconds or 1 minute. The circular scrubbing should be done with the fingertips or with a very clean washcloth. It is best to use a portion of the exfoliator as utilizing a lot does not determine the result you will get. Also, massage in a subtle way to avoid irritation and other skin conditions.
III. Rinse off the exfoliator with warm water after a minute. By using cold water, you shrink your pores and this happens after the products used in exfoliation have been absorbed. Take your time to ensure you have completely gotten rid of all particles.
IV. Moisturize your skin immediately after washing off the exfoliator. Apply it when the skin is still damp to lock in moisture. You can also use body butter as this will help to keep your skin glowing and hydrated.
Benefits of Exfoliation
Exfoliate two to three times a week for a lasting result. There are skin benefits:
1. Exfoliation unclogs the pores
At this point we all know how exfoliation takes off dead skin and unclogs the pores. The dead skin seals the pores and when this happens, the oil production under the skin cannot happen; this leads to breakouts and acne problems in the face.
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2. Exfoliation prevents breakouts
When the skin is clogged and there’s no place for the oil secretion to happen, it leads to breakouts. By exfoliating, you open the skin pores and make it easier for other skincare products to get in.
3. Exfoliation brightens the skin
Exfoliation helps you get rid of dark spots and brightens the skin. It is because of the circulation done while massaging the exfoliant on the skin. Maybe you haven’t achieved that even skin tone because it hasn’t been added to your routine.
4. It increases cell turnover and boosts collagen production in the skin, which results in glowing skin.
5. It also reduces fine lines and wrinkles, giving you a youthful appearance.
This should be part of your skin care routine. You can also get an exfoliating bar or look our for exfoliants in the ingredients of products for your skin care. Let’s get that skin glowing!