Benefits of Exfoliating Your Skin

Are you ready for my talk about skin exfoliation? If you haven’t been doing so already, you should be exfoliating regularly from this point on! Exfoliating is simple. It’s the process of removing the dead skin cells that can build up on the skin’s outer layer leaving you with the appearance of dry, flaky skin. Many feel that the harder and longer you exfoliate, the softer your skin will become, but that’s just not the case. Overdoing it and the misuse of exfoliants can actually cause damage to the skin.

Some side effects you may notice from too much exfoliation can include:

• Stinging
• Burning
• Redness
• Breakouts
• Rubbing your skin raw
• Creating microscopic cuts to the skin

If you’re new to exfoliating or a frequent user, you should know that there are two types of exfoliation. Chemical and Physical options. Physical exfoliation is a manual way of exfoliating your skin using various tools such as brushes, sponges and even scrubs. Chemical exfoliants, as the name states, have to do with using acids such as beta hydroxy acids and other chemicals that have the ability to dissolve and remove dead skin cells. Choosing the proper exfoliating option that’s right for you, starts by knowing your individual skin type.

 

How to Exfoliate Your Skin

When it comes to proper exfoliation, here are some tips that should be considered…

1. What meds are you on? Whether the meds are over the counter or a prescription, those medicines such as retinoids can cause skin to peel and become sensitive. Look over your medicines and vitamins and ask your doctor before starting anything new.
2. Being gentle is very important. Using small and circular motions, you need to gently continue for approximately 30 seconds. Once time is up, rinse off with cool water and pat dry.
3. Moisturize no matter what. The process of exfoliation not only removes dead skin cells but will leave the skin without all its moisture. When moisturizer is applied directly after, your skin will absorb the hydration leaving you with softer, smoother skin.
4. How often should you be exfoliating? This really depends on you and your skin type. Not just the type of skin you have, but how well you individually can handle the exfoliation and what reaction if any, you are left with. Start off once a week and work your way up slowly, as much as 3-4 days if your skin can handle it. Doing too much, too quickly can cause more harm than good and should be avoided.

If you’re looking for exfoliating products, here are some that I recommend:

If you have sensitive skin…

Pixi Peel & Polish which works well with all skin types especially those with sensitive skin. With lactic acid, it does its job exfoliating while keeping skin without irritation. I’ve used this one for many years and the scent is delightful (which is a plus).

Some products that work with many but those with sensitive skin should test first to avoid potential irritation…

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution from The Ordinary offers deeper exfoliation to help fight signs of pore congestion and improve skin radiance. The formula also improves the appearance of skin texture and reduces the look of fine lines.

Farmacy Honeymoon Glow AHA Resurfacing Night Serum works with your skin as you sleep. This nighttime renewal has soothing honey plus AHA/BHA flower acid blend which will help give you a healthier glow as you wake.

Ellen Lange Retexturizing Skin Peel Kit – At Home Glycolic Chemical Facial Treatment is one of my other favorites. This is weekly peel that will have you glowing after the first treatment.

You can shop some of my favorite exfoliating products by clicking on any of the pictures below.

Overall, exfoliating is a great way to achieve healthier, glowing and more beautiful looking skin. I suggest purchasing a dry brush for the body as well to begin dry brushing every other day prior to showering to really begin to notice a brighter appearance to your skin.  Don’t use this on your face. If you haven’t started exfoliating as part of your skincare routine yet, now is the time! Exfoliate!