Long ago, the question was always on the necessity of skin exfoliation. Is it really necessary and can we do without it? These days, as a result of a change in mentality and advance in knowledge, the question is on the extent of damage caused by skin exfoliation. Well, if you don't know the how, you are likely to have a damaged skin instead of an exfoliated one.
Types of skin exfoliator
You can either exfoliate chemically or mechanically (physically). Chemically, we have the; alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) which include glycolic, lactic, tartaric and citric acids; beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) which include salicylic acid; and poly-hydroxy acids (PHAs).
Mechanically or physically, there is the need to employ the use of physical tools. When you make use of this method for your skin exfoliation, the action is physically felt.
Physical tools used for exfoliation include body brush (talk of the dry-brushing method), facial brush (particularly for the face) and body scrubs (an example is sugar scrub). There could also be the use of a washcloth or an exfoliating towel or gloves.
Find the right formula
The need to know your skin type cannot be overemphasized. The skin is the largest organ of the body, but quite sensitive. Hence, to effectively exfoliate your skin without damaging it, you should understand your skin type and how to go about the process.
Next, you get the suitable cleanser, moisturiser and toner for your skin type which are to be applied before or after exfoliation.
For physical exfoliation, the scrub should not be harsh on your skin and you have to be gentle during application and scrubbing. If you however opt for chemical exfoliation, it is expected that you take your time to read instructions. This informs you of how long they are to stay on you face or skin, lest you over-exfoliate and damage your skin.
Chemical exfoliation is recommended for dry skin types, AHAs specifically. The BHAs are more often than not, designed for individuals with sensitive skin. Those with oily skin will do well with mechanical exfoliation.
For normal skin types, there is the luxury of using either types of exfoliation while someone with a combination skin can use both but never at the same time.
How to apply
To exfoliate your body, you should first take a warm shower in order to have the skin softened. Dead skin cells of the body, particularly the arms and legs, feet and hands can be removed by thorough scrubbing. After applying your choice scrub, you can exfoliate easily with a sponge, glove or brush. Pumice stone is used for the feet.
For the face, you can choose to use a toner and cleanser before exfoliating, after exfoliating or even both. If your face feels dry after exfoliation, then apply your moisturiser.
Exfoliation helps your skin feel and look younger. The process takes off dead cells leaving only fresh and new cells to be seen and touched on the surface. Since you care about your skin, enough to want to have dead cells removed, you should go about it the right way to avoid damaging your skin.
This right way would include knowing your skin type, the right formula and methods of application. If you get these, it's good riddance to the fear of exfoliation causing damage to your skin. best natural skincare cosmetic