This post explains why, when, and how to exfoliate safely. So, join me in looking at the importance and benefits of skin exfoliation, which you have probably been overlooking, maybe because you don’t think it would make a difference or don’t have the time.
Exfoliating hasn’t always been my number one skincare routine. My notion was to shower daily; there was nothing to remove from my skin (forgive my ignorance) because it felt clean.
I began to appreciate the benefit of exfoliation when I started taking my skincare routine seriously. I have my skincare sessions at home in my little way, and they are nothing unusual.
That said, exfoliation has benefits and disadvantages. So, if you are wondering what the fuss about exfoliation is or want to know the nitty-gritty of it, you are in the right place.
What is exfoliation?
If you are asking, why or what is the benefit of skin exfoliation? Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells from the surface of the donation. You don’t necessarily have to see the dead skin cells coming off, but you will notice the difference when you touch, see, or feel your skin. What better way to understand than to try it yourself?
Depending on preference and skin type, there are different ways to exfoliate the skin. You can use treatments that contain active ingredients or scrubs and brushes. You can also use homemade exfoliating scrubs or buy them from the shop.
It is important to be gentle on the skin when exfoliating, regardless of your skin type—normal, oily, dry, or sensitive.
How do you know when to exfoliate?
I strongly feel we should exfoliate regularly, but I appreciate there are times when you just can’t be bothered or are too busy to take care of yourself because you are taking care of your family or busy with work. Creating a self-care routine to treat yourself wouldn’t be a bad idea.
There are signs to indicate the time for exfoliation
- Your skin product is not working – If you notice, skin doesn’t feel different after constantly using body cream and moisturizer.
- It feels so dry when rubbing the back of your hand on your skin.
If these signs, then it’s time to EXFOLIATE.
How to Exfoliate Safely
Exfoliate gently in a circular motion, rinse with lukewarm water, and pat dry with a clean cloth. Always moisturize after exfoliating or scrubbing, as failing to do so will defeat the purpose.
Some parts of the body are more sensitive than others. The way you scrub your face is different from your legs. Avoid the eye area when exfoliating your face.
Other body parts to exfoliate are the main body, knee, elbow, and legs.
What is your exfoliating tool of choice?
- Soft Brush
- Gloves
- Fingers
- Sponge
Now that you know why, when, and how to experience it safely, it’s time to examine the benefits of skin exfoliation.
6 Benefits of Skin Exfoliation
- It leaves the skin feeling smooth and clean.
- Purifies the skin surface by removing dead cells.
- Brightens up the skin to give it a healthy glow.
- It prevents skin blemishes, such as acne.
- Unclogs pores to enable the skin to breathe correctly and prevent blackheads.
- It helps cream or moisturizer penetrate well.
- It improves the texture of the skin.
Quick Tips
- Exfoliate once or twice a week.
- Morning – the best time to exfoliate.
- Exfoliate with homemade scrubs or use AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) products.
- Exfoliate gently in a circular motion.
- After exfoliating, use a toner and moisturizer.
Why You Shouldn’t Exfoliate Every Day
We shouldn’t exfoliate daily. As much as exfoliation is good for the skin, it can also harm it. Over-exfoliating the skin can result in irritation or redness, which is why it is good to observe your skin after every exfoliating session to notice any reaction. Exfoliation should be in moderation. Taking a break is best if your skin reacts to it, as different skins respond differently.
How often should you exfoliate?
I reckon this would be the next question if someone tells you not to overexfoliate. Your skin type plays an important role when exfoliating.
Oily Skin – Exfoliate gently twice a week due to its oily nature.
Dry skin – Exfoliate once a week. Your skin is already dry, so you don’t want it to overdry (if there is a word like that), but you know what I mean. The essence of exfoliating is to remove dead skin from the skin’s surface.
Normal/Combination skin – It speaks for itself. You can exfoliate as and when you want, but be mindful of over-exfoliating to avoid skin irritation.
On a lighter note
Exfoliating, if done safely, contributes immensely to the appearance of our skin, especially the face; you might not need to wear makeup all the time.
What say you?
How often do you exfoliate? Do you have tips you’d like to share?
Next Stop
Check out my post on simple exfoliating scrubs to try
Yay! I’m happy you made it this far. Do you like this post? Share your thoughts in the comment section. Pin this post to your Pinterest and share it on Facebook. Subscribe to the haven’t you haven’t done so. Thank you again, and see you in my next post.
Thanks, Shola