Who doesn’t love soft skin? Well, exfoliating is one of the easiest ways to get baby soft skin. Whether using exfoliating products or tools, this practice is sure to improve your skin’s hydration and also improve circulation for softer skin. This overview of exfoliation for the body will help you make it a regular part of your skin care routine.
What is exfoliation?
Exfoliation is a process that removes dead skin cells from the outer layer of skin, known as the epidermis. This layer of skin is very thick and works to protect us and it sheds regularly. It is important to take care of this outer layer of skin to keep it healthy and moisturized. When you exfoliate, you buff the dry, dead skin off of the epidermis to reveal a newer layer of skin that is softer and more radiant.
The epidermis (the top layer of your skin) is very thick.When you exfoliate, you buff away the older layer of dry dead skin to reveal a newer layer that is softer and more radiant.
Types of Exfoliation
There are generally two types of exfoliation, chemical and mechanical. Chemical exfoliation, the first type, uses acids, such as salicylic and glycolic, to loosen and slough off the outer layer of dead skin. Mechanical exfoliation uses products/tools such as salts, sugars, loofahs, and body brushes to buff away that upper layer of dead skin. The tips in this post are specific to mechanical exfoliation the body.
Benefits of Exfoliation
If you have dull, dry, and itchy skin, exfoliation is one of the quickest solutions to overcome that lackluster look. Because your skin is constantly regenerating itself, exfoliating allows you to remove the older skin cells for softer, more moisturized skin that is not itchy. Exfoliating once a week is ideal, but you can do every other week if you prefer.
Exfoliation Products and Tools
Body scrubs are a common exfoliation product. They come in many forms and use a variety of exfoliating agents such as coffee, sugar, salt, and clay. Some scrubs are emulsified and may double as a cleanser; others are made to exfoliate and moisturize and may contain oils and butters. My favorite type of body scrubs are Sénica’s brown sugar scrubs, naturally. I plan on writing a dedicated sugar scrub post soon to give you a full breakdown. When using a body scrub, be sure to read the label and follow instructions.
Body brushes and loofahs are also great exfoliants. Natural fibers like hemp and sea sponge can provide a gentle buffing action and can help improve circulation. Be sure to use gentle body brushes. You don’t want to use a product that feels like your skin is being raked off. Harder, less gentler products will tear and bruise the skin.
These organically grown loofah slices gently exfoliate, soften, and soften the skin.
Exfoliation is an important part of any skin care routine and is easy to do. So go forth and exfoliate and put your best skin forward!
Do you exfoliate? Do you prefer body brushes or body scrubs?
I’ve always wanted to try exfoliating but have been afraid to try because I have sensitive skin. I think I’ll give it a try.
Great information – thanks for sharing!
Thank you Marilyn.
I am a fan of gentle exfoliation. Years ago I read in a magazine that Christie Brinkley said exfoliation was her best tip for beautiful skin. I saw her in New York City and her skin is beautiful.
Thank you for the comment Joan. Exfoliating really does wonders fircthe skin.
I love body, face, and lip scrubs. Once I started exfoliating one I’m hooked. It makes such a difference. I’ve found that I like sugar the best!
Thank you for the comment Renan. I enjoy sugar scrubs the best too.
Thank you so very much for these exfoliation tips! After I exfoliate, I use the Sénica’s Blemish Balm on certain spots that are more sensitive.
Thank you burgess. The Blemish Balm is great for sensitive skin.