How To

EXFOLIATING: it’s meaning and how to do it right.

Have you ever wondered why it seems like your regular body and face cream, soap and other skin care products are not being effective? They don’t give you what you want? I will tell you why.

You know how a snake removes dead cells, the human skin on its own, also likes to sneak out of its dead cells, usually to make room for new, cuter skin cells. That is to say that, the human skin removes dead cells to make new ones.

The problem now is that, most times the body do not carry out a good job, it does not remove all the dead cells, it leaves some lying on the skin. Those ones left behind, are the ones you are battling with, they are the ones preventing your skin from absorbing your cream and soap.

Exfoliating now comes to play. This is simply the process of getting rid of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. It helps prevent the skin from being flakey and dry, it makes the skin brighter, it also prevents clogged pores thereby reducing breakouts.

Exfoliating might result to irritation if not properly done. Before we talk about some exfoliating tips, let’s outline the two major methods of exfoliating:

There is the Mechanical method which involves the use of tools like brush and sponge. The normal face and body scrubs also fall into this category.

Then we have the chemical method, involving the use of chemicals such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids. (Take note of these methods, we will be refering back to them as we move further).

Now, here are some recommended tips to guild you in exfoliating, so as to avoid skin damage and to achieve good results:

Go for an exfoliating method that suits your skin; different exfoliating method works for different skin types. Now pay attention.

Those with sensitive or acne-prone skin should go for a mild chemical exfoliator because the mechanical ones might cause redness or irritation to the skin.

Stronger chemical exfoliation or mechanical exfoliation is best for those with Oily thicker skin type. But if you have a darker skin tone or scar from sunburn or acne

breakout, avoid strong chemical or mechanical exfoliation as it may leave dark spots on your skin.

Exfoliate gently: while using a scrub or any chemical exfoliator, rub gently in a circular motion for about 30 seconds (or whatever duration recommended by the producers of your exfoliator), then rinse off with lukewarm (not hot) water.

Do not exfoliate or scrub if your skin has cuts or open wounds or even sunburned.

Moisturize after exfoliating: while exfoliating can dry the skin, moisturizing the skin keeps the skin hydrated. Therefore, whether you use exfoliator in the morning or evening, make sure you apply a moisturizer immediately after exfoliating to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

When should you exfoliate?

Well, I can’t say when exactly. But know that, exfoliating depends on how your skin care routine is, like if your routine is usually in the morning, you can exfoliate in the morning and vice versa.

Personally, exfoliating at night is preferable. You know, after a long day, it may feel so good to scrub so as to get rid of the sweat accumulated during the day’s activities. It’s all up to you, dear.

Having seen that you can exfoliate either in the morning or at night, how often then should you exfoliate?

This depends on your skin type and the type of exfoliation you are using.

For all skin types except Oily skin, exfoliating one or two times a week is recommended.

Oily skin may require frequent exfoliation. But don’t over scrub as it may cause skin irritation.

Exfoliating is really safe, but if in the process you discover certain skin condition such as redness, peeling and so on, it is advised that you stop exfoliating and visit a dermatologist if possible.