How to Exfoliate?

Exfoliating the skin on a regular basis works wonders for the skin as it removes the dead cells that form a layer on the skin. This results in a healthier glow and the skin feels fresh and taut. This is perhaps one of the easiest ways of attaining a healthy skin.

When exfoliation is done on a regular basis, the skin achieves a radiant glow and feels smoother. It also reduces the fine lines on the skin, which would otherwise ultimately result in wrinkles. The blood circulation improves, and the toxins present in the blood are removed. Although exfoliating is highly recommended, dermatologists prescribe it should be done with care and gently. Once or twice a week on the face and two or three times a week to the body should be sufficient.

How to exfoliate

• Before starting the actual process of exfoliation, the face and body should be cleaned thoroughly.
• The cleanser should be applied on a wet sponge or loofah. Wet the body well, and apply the cleanser.
• Rinse thoroughly. Now the actual process of exfoliating can start.
• The exfoliator is smeared on the sponge or loofah and the spread all over the body and face in a circular motion.
• Care should be taken when applying to sensitive areas like the neck and thighs. Special attention should be given to the back of arms, knees and elbows.
• Working your way up from the ankles, the whole body and face should be covered.
• Remember to use a good body lotion after exfoliating, as the skin tends to become dry.

Using Steam for exfoliation

Steaming is another excellent method of exfoliating. This can be done a couple of times a week. Fresh herbs can be added to the boiling water. This produces a wonderful fragrance, and acts very well on the skin. Steaming opens the pores, thus cleansing it. Once the steaming is done, the face should be thoroughly rinsed and then patted dry.

Using Masks for exfoliation

Masks are another effective way to exfoliate your skin. But they should not be used very often, as they dry up a lot of the natural oils in the face. Masks should not be put too close to the eyes or mouth.

Home methods to exfoliate

• One of the most effective yet simple and cheap exfoliants is the homemade paste of mashed papayas spread all over the face and body. Make sure the body is wet before applying it.
• Another good exfoliant is wet sand. This aids in the improvement of the blood circulation in the body.
• Oatmeal mixed with honey, lemon juice and milk is another very good exfoliant.

Apart from being cost effective, another benefit of using homemade exfoliants is that they are natural, pure and fresh, with no chemicals added to them.

Things to be kept in mind while exfoliating

• Always use a good cleanser before exfoliating your skin.
• Lenses should be removed before doing the exfoliation on the face.
• Remember to use a good lotion all over the body after exfoliating.
• Do not over do it. Once or twice a week should be enough to help your skin regenerate and glow. Exfoliating several times a week can damage your skin.