Exfoliating Your Face.

 

As I was growing up, my sister said I needed to exfoliate my skin on a regular basis.  Her recommendation had ground up walnut shells in it which was supposed to do a much better job but over the years, I've learned that you do not want an exfoliate with the ground up walnut shells.

Remember, exfoliation is used to to remove the dead skin cells from the outer layer and can make the skin look better and make it easier for the skin to absorb topical skin products.  Skin cells flake off, making room for new cells once every 30 days or so. When the dead cells do not fall off, they can appear as flakey patches or clog pores.  Exfoliation can help keep this from happening and it can help increase collagen production.

In addition, there are two ways to exfoliate your skin, mechanical or chemical. Mechanical exfoliation is when a person uses a tool such as a brush or sponge, or a scrub which physically removes the dead cells.  In addition, physical exfoliation is much easier to do because you just need a cloth and some homemade product. On the other hand, chemical exfoliation relies on things such as alpha or beta hydroxy acids which dissolve the cells gently.  

In addition, it is important to know your type of skin before selecting the exfoliate because if someone with sensitive skin isn't careful, they might experience burning or sting after it is done.  In addition, a person with normal skin should not be as sensitive and it should stay pretty clear but someone with dry skin will notice their skin is flakey and dry but someone with oily skin will notice that it is shiny and greasy.  It is possible to have a combination skin which is dry in areas but oily in others.

Before exfoliating your skin, it is important to look at the medications you are taking because some can make your skin more sensitive or even peal.  If you are using a prescription with retinol or benzoyl peroxide, you might notice your skin breaking out or becoming dry when you exfoliate.  The method you choose should be based on our skin type.  If skin is sensitive, dry, or has acne, think about using a wash cloth and a mild chemical exfoliate but if you have oily skin, think about a mechanical type but make sure it is not damaging. 

It doesn't matter which you use, apply the product using small circular motions for about 30 seconds before rinsing with lukewarm rather than hot water.   Do not exfoliate if you are sunburned or any cuts on your skin. Once you've finished exfoliating your skin, apply a moisturizer because exfoliating can be drying. Do not exfoliate every day as it can be damaging. 

On Friday, I'll be sharing some Do It Yourself facial exfoliates that can easily be made at home.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.