Everyone wants a complexion that can be admired. We want to be told that we look young even though age is creeping up on us day by day. And is it possible? Yes. Knowing how to exfoliate properly and following a healthy skin care routine often can help you look fresher and younger.
Exfoliating is one of the anti-aging skin care tips that does all the magic. Unfortunately, not everyone does. Of the few who do, some do not do it properly. As a result, they either miss out on the perks that proper exfoliation can do for their skin, or do more harm than good.
You don’t have to be among the people missing this. The next time you want to scrub dead skin cells off your face, use the exfoliation tips in this article.
Let’s dive in.
What is exfoliation?
Exfoliation is the removal of dead skin cells from the top layer of skin by washing or scrubbing an area of the body. You can do this with granules, washcloths, chemicals, etc. on your face and body.
Why exfoliating is important
As you already know, exfoliation helps slough off dead skin cells.
It also brightens the skin and helps maintain its radiance.
Hear from dermatologist consultant Rachael Burns. send:
“Exfoliation can help brighten your complexion and improve the appearance of your skin, and importantly, it can help prevent clogged pores, acne blemishes, blackheads and whiteheads.”
Rachel Burns
Plus, when these dead skin cells are cleared from your skin, your skin care products will be easier to penetrate and more effective.
How to exfoliate
The two main methods of exfoliation are chemical and mechanical. Let’s take a closer look at them.
1. Mechanical
This method uses tools such as:
scrub
This includes sugar scrubs and other types of exfoliants that contain particulate matter. Apply the exfoliating scrub directly to the skin using gentle circular motions. After that, wash off your skin with lukewarm water.
sponge
This involves lathering your body with an exfoliating sponge mixed with warm water, soap, or body wash.
polish
A bristle brush can also be used on the face or all over the skin to remove dead skin cells. Some can be used in conjunction with
glove
If a brush or sponge feels too hard on your skin, try an exfoliating glove. Just lather it with soap or body soap and use it on your body.
2. Chemicals
As the name suggests, this involves exfoliating using chemical-based products.
Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)
AHAs break down dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, allowing the skin to naturally slough off dead particles. They include products made with glycolic, tartaric, lactic, and citric acids.
beta hydroxy acid (BHA)
BHA is a good option if you suffer from acne all the time. They include products made with beta hydroxyl and salicylic acid.
How to properly exfoliate
know your skin type
Before exfoliating manually or using chemicals, it’s important to know your skin type. This will determine how often you exfoliate and the process you should follow.
For example, if you have dry skin, using an AHA when exfoliating can help. Avoid scrubbing sensitive skin. Use a mild chemical exfoliant instead.
Also, if you have an oily skin type, one of the mechanical methods can be very helpful in removing buildup from your skin.
But for combination skin types, one of both methods works best. Pick one, stick with it, or alternate.
Calm
Be careful when using the manual method. Do not rub the skin too hard to avoid complications. Instead, be kind. Apply the scrub in a circular motion or use a brush or glove to pat it lightly.
Do not peel when injured
Do not exfoliate if you have cuts or bruises on your face or skin. Save it for when the injury must have healed. Failure to do so will cause further irritation and aggravate the cut.
Moisturizing after exfoliating
Skin is more likely to be dry after exfoliating. So, to stay healthy and hydrated, apply a moisturizer.
Do not exfoliate excessively
If you tend to rub hard when exfoliating, don’t do it every day. It strips your face of its natural oils and can cause skin irritation.
Instead, exfoliate 2-3 times a week or more often, depending on your skin type.
Exfoliation helps you reap the value of skin care products because it cleans your skin and provides space for products to work more effectively. Adopt exfoliation today with these exfoliation tips on how to properly exfoliate.
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