Caring for my skin is one of the most therapeutic moments for me as an individual, in the process of this routine, I usually notice some fascinating features about me that I barely pay attention to, and this skincare routine has boosted my confidence level and made me more comfortable in my natural skin.
Exfoliating is one of the most essential parts of my skincare routine. This is one of the key ways I practically show self-love and attention to myself. In my routine, I do not joke with my exfoliating scrub and facial wash.
What exactly is Exfoliation?
Exfoliation is the removal of debris from the skin surface, in order words the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of our skin.
The process of removing these dead cells with tools or substances like a chemical, gritty substances, or exfoliation tool is called exfoliating. Lack of exfoliation can lead to dry, flaky patches and clogged pores. which eventually causes breakout on the face or itching skin.
Exciting Benefits of Exfoliating
Exfoliating can improve skin appearance in several ways and also boost confidence levels.
Citing the American Academy of [1] Dermatology, exfoliation can leave your skin glowing and help boost the effectiveness of topical skin care products by enhancing absorption rapidly.
Regular use of exfoliation can also help prevent clogged pores, which can result in fewer breakouts.
Additionally, long-term use of exfoliating can also increase collagen production. Collagen is very vital to glowing and vibrant skin. The protein found in it can also promote skin elasticity, minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkling.
Types of Exfoliation
There are two distinct types of exfoliation, Physical and Chemical exfoliation.
Physical Exfoliation
Generally, any exfoliating product or process that requires you to use your hands in scrubbing or rubbing falls is known as a physical exfoliant. For instance, using cleansing scrubs, body brushes, and loofahs are all common methods of physical exfoliation.
One of the major advantages of physical exfoliation is that it is easily accessible, you can obtain it in a store or online purchase.
Also, you can exfoliate at home with as little as a plain-woven cotton washcloth or a do-it-yourself (DIY) scrub. They also offer great results.
However, it is important to note, that if performed wrongly, physical exfoliation might sometimes irritate your skin. Therefore causes transepidermal water loss, leaving your skin to itch. This is why it is important to use a moisturizer after exfoliating and get a scrub that matches your skin type.
Tools for Physical Exfoliating
There are a few abrasive materials to choose from for physical exfoliation, including:
- cleansing scrubs
- exfoliating mitts
- dry brushes
- loofahs
- pumice stones
- microneedling or micro derma rollers
For DIY scrubs
Do you know that you likely already have all the ingredients needed to make an effective DIY scrub in your kitchen?
Yes! that’s right, sugar and milk, for example, contain acids that can help exfoliate your skin. When used topically, coffee also can offer protective antioxidant properties and promote collagen production. Research [2] has shown that manuka honey is best for wound healing.
Recipe for Coffee Scrub:
Ingredients needed:
- Half cup coffee grounds
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoon milk or buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon honey
How-to:
- First add all ingredients to an airtight container and stir well.
- Then you wet your face using a spray mist or light face shower
- Apply the scrub over your face and neck, avoiding your eyes.
- Ensure that your hands are Wet, then begin to gently rub the mixture into your skin in a circular motion. Do this for about for 3-4 minutes.
- Rinse off using lukewarm water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Store any remaining scrub in the fridge.
Brown sugar body scrub
Ingredients needed:
- half cup coconut oil
- half-cup honey
- half cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons ground oatmeal
How-to:
- Stir together coconut oil and honey.
- Add brown sugar and oatmeal. Stir until you’re left with a thick paste.
- After wetting your skin, gently rub the mixture on your body.
- Rinse and pat dry.
Tips for selecting a good Scrub:
We are very much aware that over-the-counter (OTC) options are usually endless. However, there are scrubs for both your face, body and feet. You are left with options for your skin types.
Here are some quick and vital things to keep in mind when selecting a product:
- Check out the purpose and specification: You should never use a scrub meant for your body on your face. Body scrubs are usually harsher and may tear delicate facial tissue than face scrubs.
Face scrub is milder and has be designed specifically for the face only
- Make use of one product at a time: I understand how tempting it can be to buy a full set of skincare products, however, you shouldn’t use more than one exfoliant at a time.
Using multiple exfoliating products on the same area of skin can cause skin damage and result in unwanted side effects such as irritation or more breakouts.
- Switch out Product. It is very possible that you might need to cycle through different products as your skin care needs change. For instance: If your skin has become oily, you might want to consider using a product infused with charcoal.
Finally, whatever options you choose, be it DIY scrubs, OTC products, or seeking out professional treatments, depends on your individual skin care needs in the long run.
Although, if you have an existing skincare condition or are unsure about how to start, make an appointment with a dermatologist or other healthcare provider. They would be in the best position to walk you through your options and help you develop a skin care routine tailored for your individual goals and lifestyle.
