Taking care of your body is extremely important. Part of doing so is making sure you also take care of your skin.
Your skin is the human body’s largest organ. The average adult actually carries around 8 pounds and 22 square feet of it. And this fleshy covering does a lot more than making us look presentable.
Our skin experiences around 17 different thermic shocks a day. This means that we expose ourselves to sudden (sometimes harsh) changes in temperature, stress, pollution and humidity without even really noticing.
So, how can we improve our overall skincare routine and take extra care of such a valuable organ?
Exfoliation.
According to trusty Google, “Exfoliation involves the removal of the oldest dead skin cells on the skin’s outermost surface. Exfoliation is involved in all facials, during microdermabrasion or chemical peels. Exfoliation can be achieved by mechanical or chemical means.”
Since our skin is porous, it naturally absorbs whatever you put on it or expose it to. Whether we’re applying moisturizer, makeup, oils, water or even pollutants.
By properly exfoliating our skin, we not only shed dead and dry skin cells but all the surface debris that might be remaining on our skin from throughout the day.
Whether you want smoother, softer, healthier-looking skin, or to get rid of clogged pores, blackheads and ingrown hairs – exfoliation will become a major part of your skincare arsenal.
Mechanical (Best for Full Body Exfoliation)
This physical act of exfoliating requires motion and a gentle touch.
When scrubbing, whether it’s with a loofa, washcloth, electric body brush, or just a deep cleansing body scrub, work the exfoliant into the skin using circular motions to improve circulation.
Exfoliating as such before shaving or get waxed will improve how the razor or wax grabs onto the hairs as opposed to the skin, resulting in a smoother and easier removal. The goal is to shed the dry and dead skin cells and release the built-up toxins in the skin.
But remember, mechanical exfoliants can be harsh on the skin, especially on the face, unless they are designed as such but will work wonders for overall body care. So be gentle!
Chemical Exfoliation
This type of exfoliation refers to a type of chemical component that breaks down the cells that hold onto dry or dead skin and bring them to the surface. These chemicals are referred to as acids but are more beneficial than they sound.
Acids such as Glycolic, Salicylic, and Lactic can fight dead and dry skin cells, reduce large and clogged pores as well as dull skin.
If you’re looking for a more natural alternative look for enzyme exfoliants. Products that contain pineapple, papaya and pumpkin also provide similar components and can work wonders on the skin.
And remember, while it’s important to remove dead skin it’s also important not to strip away too many of our skin’s natural oils, so a good balance is essential.
Aftercare For Exfoliating
Exfoliation increases blood circulation, breaks down toxins and encourages new skin cells to come through. Drinking lots of water drains toxins and helps give those new skin cells a “drink from the inside”.
Apply a good moisturizer to help hydrate the skin from the outside in.
Do not expose your exfoliated skin to UV rays, sun, sunbed for 24 hours. Make sure to apply sunscreen before leaving the house.