As this is 'tis the season to “show more skin,” just a "jolly" reminder from Beauty Beat regarding the importance of exfoliating. Beauty Beat recommends exfoliating as an important step in caring for the skin.
Necessary to Manually Exfoliate
When we are young, the cell turnover (the removal of dead skin cells) is a natural process, and is why our skin looks healthy and taut. The outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, normally renews itself approximately every 30 days. As each new layer of cells is formed, the older layers get pushed to the surface. When these cells move to the surface, they should be naturally exfoliated, or “sloughed off.” As we age though, old skin cells remain on the surface which can give that dreaded “dull appearance!” Additionally, these layers of dead skin cells form a barrier that interferes with the hydrating and nourishing effects of skin care products and treatments.
The natural Exfoliation process that diminishes with age can be maintained with a mechanical process. In order to achieve a “healthy glow,” it is necessary to remove the old, dead cells and reveal younger, healthier-looking skin underneath. Very-fine granular scrubs, alpha hydroxy acids, Retin-A, and microdermabrasion are all methods to rejuvenate the face, and allow for proper penetration of products. However, it is just as important not to over-exfoliate and potentially irritate the skin. Beauty Beat recommends choosing one form that works best and, depending on the frequency, should be sufficient. Micro-bead face scrubs are found in over-the counter products, and are best applied in a circular motion (avoiding the eye area) using a delicate touch since too much pressure could damage fine pores and capillaries. Low-concentrated forms of glycolic (AHA) and salicylic (BHA) acids can also be found in over-the-counter products, while stronger concentrations, commonly referred to as “chemical peels,” are applied by dermatologists. Microdermabrasion, also performed in dermatologist offices, removes the surface layer of skin by a method known as “sanding.” Retin-A is a prescription skin care cream and, among other benefits, serves as an exfoliant. Depending on one’s individual needs, each method serves to stimulate circulation, as well as soften, smooth, and refine the skin’s appearance.
It is also essential to exfoliate the body. Beauty Beat feels that using a body scrub once a week does the trick, and prefers scrubs that contain Natural Ingredients, for example, sugar or salt in an oil or honey base. Beauty Beat does not find using a “bath pouf” as effective. If you “self-tan,” it is critical to exfoliate first, but may be better to avoid an oil-based exfoliant (which could leave behind oils and interfere with the self-tanner). Lastly, shaving is also a form of exfoliation, so if you need to exfoliate as well as shave, shave first.
Happy Exfoliating!
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