Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate!

 

     Hello again beauty junkies! Since one of the products I will be reviewing from Birchbox will be an exfoliating cleanser, I decided it would be the perfect opportunity for a post about exfoliating. This is one of my favorite parts of my beauty regime because of how your skin looks and feels after.

     Your skin produces cells and over time if not removed these old cells can cause a number of problems. They gather bacteria and clog pores, make your skin feel rough to the touch and cause your skin to appear dull and lifeless. When you slough these dead skin cells away with an exfoliator, your skin appears brighter and feels smoother and cleaner! By lifting away these cells you increase your cell turnover rate. Your cell turnover rate is how fast your skin replaces old skin cells with new ones. Because you are getting rid of old cells that clog pores, you can reduce breakouts by exfoliating, especially if the scrub contains an acne fighting ingredient like salicylic acid.


     There are a range of methods of exfoliation, some being much harsher than others. Microdermabrasion and chemical peels are two rather harsh but effective methods offered in spas/salons and dermatologist offices. Microdermabrasion uses a high powered vacuum along with crystals that, in a sense, sand blast the skin smooth. This can reduce scars and fine lines, but isn't always recommended for acne skin. Chemical peels use different active ingredients, like lactic and glycolic acid to chemically exfoliate the skin. These are also offered in spas/salons and dermatologist offices. They come in a range of strengths and active ingredients and some can be used on acne skin. Keep in mind food allergies apply to the skin, so if you are allergic to milk (in a lactic peel) or other foods let your esthetician/dermatologist know!


     The most convenient method of exfoliation is to use a gritty scrub 3-4 times a week at home. Exfoliating scrubs come in a range of grittiness as well as different ingredients such an salicylic acid used to reduce/prevent breakouts. The media in these scrubs varies from fine micro crystals to ground apricot kernels to small beads. Keep in mind things like ground apricot kernels are going to be much more aggressive than micro crystals or small beads. Aggressive exfoliants should not be used on sensitive skin or skin that reddens easily.  Also, remember these products are not for cleansing the skin around the eyes.


     Another way to exfoliate from home are enzyme exfoliants. These are a little harder to find over the counter, however there are many natural items in your fridge that contain enzymes that work as natural exfoliants. The enzymes in pineapple are a great natural exfoliant! You can used canned crushed pineapple, but the best way is to buy a whole pineapple and put some through a food processor until its rather baby food like. You can also use a mortar and pestle. Mix it with some honey and apply to your face for five to ten minutes. Your skin should be smooth and feel fresh!

!!!Please keep in mind that some people's skin have allergies to certain food products even if the person isn't allergic when they ingest that food product. Use caution and common sense when using items from your fridge for beauty purposes. Have a few cool wet towels on hand as well as a bowl of water in case you need to remove a masque quickly.!!!

** I love making my own beauty products from natural ingredients! If you enjoy using natural items from your fridge, keep your eyes open for natural tips throughout my posts! **


     Another perk to regular exfoliating is you are creating a smooth canvas for your foundation and powder. This results in your face makeup appearing smoother and more natural and we all love that.


     And ladies, exfoliating isn't just reserved for you! It has many benefits for men as well! By regular exfoliating, men can prevent folliculitis aka ingrown hairs. These plague many men, especially those that shave frequently. By exfoliating before shaving, you clear the skin of old cells which gives you a much cleaner, smoother shave. When you shave without exfoliating, you are pushing all those old, dirty cells into your pores and follicles and you get ingrown hairs. Jack Black has a great line of men's skin care products at Sephora and they aren't terribly expensive.

     Many ask what I use. I have combination skin that is normal on my cheeks and chin, sometimes dry on the forehead and my nose can be anywhere from a bit dry to a little oily. I do have pretty clear skin with a little hormonal breakout here and there so I consider myself pretty lucky. I use Equate Blackhead Clearing Scrub found at most Walmarts and for a pretty cheap price. I love this scrub because its gritty enough without being too aggressive and it contains salicylic acid to help with breakouts. Might not work for everyone, but its one of my favorite products that I have been using for several years. I also exfoliate every day, but my skin is very tolerant to exfoliators. I don't suggest starting out every day especially if you have sensitive skin or skin not used to exfoliating.

     Another method of exfoliating I love to use is a small facial brush. The bristles should be soft to the touch. If the bristles are too stiff you will scratch your face! I really want to try the rotating brushes like Oil of Olay and Clarisonic, but they are a little pricey and the small brush I use now works great! These are best used with a cleanser in a circular motion and I promise you will feel a difference in the softness of your skin immediately. 

    In closing, exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate! It has numerous benefits and leaves your skin super smooth. Who doesn't want super smooth skin? Until next time....