There are very specific ways to exfoliate your skin so that you get the most out of the products you’re using. That being said, exfoliating on a regular basis is very beneficial for your skin as it sloughs off dead cells and leaves you with younger, more radiant skin. However, it’s easy to overdo it or not do it often enough. By following these easy ways to exfoliate your skin, you can have the glow you crave without causing any damage.
1. Wet Your Skin
I cringe just thinking about exfoliating dry skin, don’t you? One of the easiest ways to exfoliate your skin properly is to get it wet before applying the product. This allows the ingredients to suds up a bit and do their magic on your face or body. I prefer to exfoliate in the shower because it keeps the mess under control and makes it simple to rinse off when I’m done.
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When your skin is moistened, the exfoliating granules can glide much more smoothly, reducing the risk of any unwanted scratches or irritation. Always opt for lukewarm water – too hot can strip your skin of its natural oils, while too cold might not be as effective in loosening dead skin cells. Remember, gentle circular motions will help slough away the old skin, revealing the glowing, soft skin underneath. Treat your skin like fine silk and it'll reward you by looking radiant and healthy.
2. Circular Motions
As you apply your exfoliating product, do so in small circular motions. Not only does that feel like a mini massage, but it does a great job of ensuring that you don’t miss any spots. Start at the top of your body and work your way down, taking care to get all the nooks and crannies, including the insides of your elbows and the backs of your knees. You can widen your circles on larger body parts and use smaller ones on places like your face and the soles of your feet.
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3. Use a Loofah
If you have particularly tough skin, say on your feet, use a loofah with your exfoliating product for better results. A loofah resembles a sponge, but has a rougher texture that doesn’t soften when wet like a sponge. Loofahs are sold at most drugstores and places like Target and Wal-Mart. Look for them where body soap and bubble bath is sold.
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When using a loofah, it's essential to not be too aggressive; gentle circular motions are effective enough and prevent skin irritation. Over time, the regular use of a loofah can help slough away dead skin cells, promoting smoother and more radiant skin. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly after each use and let it dry to prevent bacteria growth. For optimal hygiene, replace your loofah every three to four weeks. Pair it with your favorite exfoliating wash to enhance the benefits and enjoy a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own bathroom.
4. Appropriate Pressure
As you exfoliate, be sure you are gentle on delicate areas of your skin. That includes your bikini line, face and neck. These areas naturally have thinner skin, so you don’t want to be too rough. You can apply a bit more pressure on your feet, elbows and knees where the skin is thicker. Exfoliating should never hurt. If it does, ease up a bit and take some of the pressure off.
5. Choose the Right Products
With virtually hundreds of exfoliating products on the market, it can be hard to choose. You want one specially designed for your face and another for your body. That way you are getting the most out of each when you apply them. Drugstores are a great place to look, but you can also purchase specialty products from your dermatologist if you have certain skin conditions.
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6. Rinse
You have to rinse the exfoliator off when you’re done. Leave it on your skin and I can guarantee a day of itching. That’s why I like to put it on the shower. Quickly rinse the product with warm water then a blast of cold to close your pores and keep the good ingredients where they need to be.
7. Apply Lotion
One of the best ways to make sure your efforts are rewarded is to finish your exfoliating treatment with a good dousing of lotion. Use a facial cream on your face, neck and hands and a body cream for your torso, arms and legs. By applying lotion right after rinsing, you seal in the moisture, which keeps your skin hydrated and healthy. It also enhances your radiant skin.
How often do you exfoliate? I bet you can tell a difference right away! I like to use a one to one mixture of sugar and olive oil to treat my skin.
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