Exfoliation Of Skin
Exfoliation is the process of removal of the oldest dead skin cells that cling to the skin’s outermost surface. When done correctly, exfoliation leaves skin smooth and fresh looking. It is an important part of facials and body treatments as it provides deep cleansing of the superficial layer of skin, which is important for keeping skin blemish free, as it deeply cleanses any hard sebum plugs which block the pores.
However, over cleansing and exfoliating can remove too much of the skin’s protective layer, which renders the skin waterproof and protect from bacteria so as a result of over exfoliation, your skin may not remain as resilient in its process of destroying invading bacteria as it used to be, which in turn may increase your problem.
Why Exfoliate?
This skin is constantly generating new skin cells at the lower layer and sending them to the surface. As these cells rise to the surface, they gradually die and become filled with keratin. The keratin zed skin cells are essential. They give our skin its protective quality, but they are constantly sloughing off to make way for younger cells. As we age, the process of cell turnover slows down. Cells start to pile up unevenly on the skin’s surface, giving it dry, rough and dull appearance. Exfoliation is useful because it removes those cells that are clinging on, revealing the fresher, younger skin cells below.
There are 2 types of exfoliation:
Mechanical Exfoliation
The dead skin cells are physically rubbed off with an abrasive. Examples of mechanical exfoliation include salt glow, a body scrub that might use sugar or coffee grounds or skin brushing.
Chemical Exfoliation
Enzymes, alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids loosen the glue-like substance that holds the cells together, allowing them to slough away. Facial peels are a form of chemical exfoliation. They can either be very gentle or very aggressive, depending on how strong the product is.
Various Ways To Exfoliate:
Pumice Stone
Use a pumice stone to scrub yourself while bathing to remove the grime and smooth knees, elbow, and ankles.
Loofah
It is an efficient form of exfoliation and body buffing. The moisture it to soften it to use on legs, arms and back with or without soap, making the skin soft and tingling. It also helps in stimulating blood circulation.
Buffing
A special buffing sponge can be used along with a cleanser to remove dead skin and dullness. It is best suited for the dry and sensitive skin.
Exfoliation Cream
The creams, gels or polishes containing grains like oatmeal, that can be used for exfoliation to remove the dead skin, upon massaging in the skin.
Sugar Technology
Mix sesame oil, brown sugar, and honey well and use the paste as a scrub. It cleans the skin thoroughly, without disturbing collagen fibers responsible for skin’s firm, young and healthy look.
When to Exfoliate?
Exfoliates your skin once in a week if you have a dry skin type, but if your skin is normal or sensitive or hypersensitive, then you should exfoliate twice in a month and not more.
How To Exfoliate Your Face
- First clean the skin thoroughly to remove cream and the residue of make-up.
- Exfoliate your face or body by gently scrubbing your skin.
- Use a circular motion to remove the dead skin.
- Use vertical motion to wipe the body clean of the scrub particles.
- Rinse with water and pat dry with soft towel.
- Apply moisturizers on your face and body lotion on the body after exfoliation.
If you are planning for a wedding or going to a party, then exfoliates your skin at least a couple of days before to avoid any irritation. Now I am going to exfoliate my skin and hope you all will too remove the dead skin from your face and discover the young and new skin.