Step By Step Manual On Skin Exfoliation

Exfoliation is the physical or chemical removal of dead cells from the outermost layer of your skin. Environmental damage causes a lot of wear and tear on membrane cells. Your skin’s dead cells are naturally shed and replaced by new skin cells developing underneath the surface. This is known as cellular turnover, and it takes an average adult 28-45 days to complete.

 

Dead skin cells may deposit on the skin’s surface. This can cause skin discoloration or even acne breakouts. Exfoliating the skin properly eliminates dead cells, speeds up cell turnover, and brightens your complexion. We know our system can exfoliate skin naturally but it’s not always sufficient. That’s why we need to know about the different ways to exfoliate our skin.

 

To exfoliate the skin is to slough off the dead skin cells, where basic mechanical motions such as rubbing or scrubbing are used. This procedure normally produces rapid results because it not only eliminates dead cell debris but also improves the skin’s blood circulation.

 

Body exfoliators include loofah, body brushes, bath salts, exfoliating scrub,

muslin washcloths, and others. Exfoliate face with scrubs that contain tiny abrasive particles such as grains or ground-up nuts. You can also tone your skin with a skilled beautician using microdermabrasion.

 

Types Of Exfoliation:

 

1. Physical Exfoliation

All of this being said, it’s important to note that physical exfoliation is a more powerful type of exfoliation that, if performed incorrectly, may cause discomfort or dryness. Also, make sure your store-bought scrub doesn’t have any big particles that may trigger microtears (small cuts) on your face.

 

2. Exfoliation by chemical means

Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, involves the use of chemicals such as mild acids or enzymes to remove dead cells and other deposits from the skin’s surface. Chemical exfoliators that have been dermatologically checked are generally safe to use. However, a patch test should be performed first to ensure that the substance does not cause any adverse reactions.

 

Chemical exfoliators are gentler and produce results that last longer. AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) may be present in your chemical exfoliator. Lactic acid, citric acid, glycolic acid, and other AHAs are widely used, while salicylic acid is a BHA that is commonly used for exfoliation.

 

Although exfoliation has numerous advantages, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. You should know your skin type before deciding on an exfoliation process. Special skin disorders, such as hypersensitive skin, rosacea, and others must also be considered. In such situations, you should seek the advice of a dermatologist or refrain from exfoliating altogether.

The basic rules are-

 

Step 1: Choosing the right products

Step 2: Applying the exfoliator right

Step 3: Getting the exfoliator to work

Step 4: Washing off

Step 5: Moisturising

 

Here are some easy steps of an exfoliation routine at home, answering how to exfoliate skin naturally –

1. Start by washing your face with your usual cleanser before applying a physical exfoliant.
2. Then, using a quarter-size amount of your face scrub, apply it in circular motions to your face, avoiding the eye region.
3. Massage the face exfoliator or substance into the skin for as long as the product specifies, which is normally 30 seconds to a minute. Then,  rinse with warm water and finally, gently pat your skin with a clean towel. Apply your hydrating mask, serum, or cream after that. Wash your face with your usual cleanser after using a chemical exfoliant.
4. Apply the chemical exfoliator all over your face, body, and even top of your hands if it comes in a pre-moistened cloth or pad.

Before going on to the next phase of your routine, wait for some time. While exfoliating the face, allow it a few minutes for a chemical exfoliant to absorb fully.  Exfoliants in the form of gels or serums should be used in the same way. Some chemical exfoliants, often referred to as “peels” are applied in the same way as a mask and must be rinsed off after a few minutes. Make sure you’re using your product correctly by checking the mark.

 

Exfoliating your face once or thrice a week is recommended, as exfoliating too much or too hard can cause micro-tears on your skin’s surface and strip your skin’s protective layer. Getting expert advice and professional care is ok. But there is nothing wrong with deciding to exfoliate at home. If you have inflammatory acne, rosacea, or hypersensitive skin, consult your dermatologist about which product to use to exfoliate at home and how often.

 

Exfoliator Recipe

To make a ready-to-use scrub, simply whisk together the following ingredients with a fork. Hands, feet, arms, and legs will all benefit from this treatment. Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container. It’s always a good idea to use natural exfoliants.

Ingredients

– 1/2 cup Coconut Oil (optional)

– one cup sugar (white)

– 10 drops of vanilla essential oil

Directions

• Microwave 1/2 cup coconut oil for 45 seconds or until fully melted, in a microwave-safe bowl.
• In a small mixing bowl, pour the melted coconut oil and one cup of white sugar.
• Mix thoroughly.
• Then, add in 10 drops of vanilla essential oil (or more if you want a better scent) until well combined.
• After that, move it to a jar and you’re ready to go.

A  proper exfoliation routine can ensure healthy, youthful skin. Before you choose from the many exfoliation options available, think about what you want to achieve. Be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can lead to the same conditions you’re trying to avoid. So, start by getting to know your skin.

 

Frequently Asked Questions On Skin Exfoliation

 

1. How can I exfoliate my skin naturally?

You can use natural exfoliants like coffee, oats, lemon juice, yogurt, papaya, honey, sugar, etc. to exfoliate skin naturally.

 

2. Should I exfoliate at night or in the morning?

Exfoliating is suitable to be done at any time. In the morning the skin is relaxed and pollution-free and naturally pampered if you follow a good night-time routine. On the other hand, the skin needs special care after a hectic day. So, choose according to your need.

 

3. What is a good homemade skin exfoliator?

There are several homemade skin exfoliators. A good exfoliator meets your specifications and needs. Choose ingredients according to your skin type, nourishment, and environment.

 

4. How do you exfoliate your face yourself?

Using a washcloth is a good option for those with sensitive skin. Take an ordinary washcloth and moisten with warm water, then use this to rub the skin gently in small circles. The natural sponge can work well to get rid of dead skin cells

 

5. How do you know if your skin needs exfoliation?

When your skin looks dull, you know it’s time for exfoliation. To combat dirt and oil accumulation, minimize dullness, and brush away dead skin cells, most experts suggest exfoliating once or twice weekly (that promotes healthy cell turnover). Chemical exfoliators and peels give pores a deep clean on their own, while scrubs gently buff away dead skin.

 

References:

https://skinkraft.com/blogs/articles/how-to-exfoliate-skin

https://www.dermstore.com/blog/how-to-exfoliate-skin/

https://www.luxyhair.com/blogs/hair-blog/3-easy-diy-coconut-oil-scrubs

https://www.healthline.com/health/skin/diy-body-scrub