Exfoliation: to take care of the skin by renewing it
The usefulness of exfoliation
Among body care products, exfoliation is not without its importance. Indeed, whether it is done with sand on the beach or with an exfoliating product in the shower, the purpose of the scrub is to cleanse pollution and eliminate dead cells that accumulate on the surface of the skin. Thanks to a regular exfoliation, the epidermis has an easier time renewing the skin cells.
In addition to having a cleansing action on the skin, a scrub stimulates blood circulation to the cutaneous tissues and thus allows a better oxygen supply.
Moreover, freed of their impurities, the pores of the skin better absorb the moisturizing active ingredients. This is why it is interesting to moisturize your skin after an exfoliant application.
At the beginning of the summer, exfoliation has another beauty advantage: it prepares your skin for the sun and tanning. With regular use of exfoliant, your tan will hold better and longer.
Body or face scrub
The exfoliant, also called scrub, is declined in different products adapted to all tastes. Thus, it is found in several forms (pot or tube) and with different textures (gel, cream or soap).
Similarly, a different scrub should be used to exfoliate the face or body because the skin does not have the same sensitivity.
Since facial skin is thinner and more sensitive, it is recommended to use a gentle organic exfoliator containing small grains or powder.
For the rest of the body where the skin is thicker, a firmer exfoliation is recommended to obtain a stronger result.
Scrubs: the different kinds
There are several types of scrubs to choose from according to your preferences.
Mechanical scrubs: these are the most common in stores. They are composed of grains that are larger or smaller depending on the area they are intended to exfoliate.
Chemical or enzymatic scrubs: these are scrubs based on active ingredients that react chemically to remove impurities from the skin. They are ideal for sensitive skin because they are not composed of grains and are softer.
Natural scrubs: these scrubs can be done at home. They are composed of natural products such as honey, coffee grounds, linseed, sugar or black soap.
The many exfoliating products for a more varied scrub.
Black soap: this soap of North African origin is an excellent natural exfoliant suitable for all skin types. For maximum effectiveness, it should be left on the skin for a few minutes and then rubbed (with circular movements) with a horsehair glove or an exfoliating sponge. It also has moisturizing properties.
The horsehair glove: this glove made from horsehair or goat hair (kessa glove) can be used alone or with soap and is an essential product in the bathroom.
Exfoliating creams: they have a double action: they exfoliate the grain of the skin and then release soothing and moisturizing active ingredients for the epidermis. The cream is ideal for skins with dry tendency but can nevertheless be used on oily skins.
Exfoliating shower gels: when used in the shower, the exfoliating gel acts both as a washing agent and as a scrub. The grains present in this product are generally small for a rather soft action.
Scrubbing oils: these oils combine the use of an exfoliating active ingredient with a nourishing power for the skin.
Exfoliating your scalp: useful or not?
The scalp, like any other part of the body, needs an exfoliation to eliminate impurities present in the hair. Excess sebum, dandruff and dead skin are removed from the hair, the pores of the scalp are opened and aerated, hair growth is stimulated... Many benefits result from the regular use of a scalp scrub.
Special products for scalp exfoliation are available in different formats on the market and you can also easily perform them at home with products found in your kitchen.
Exfoliation: a few tips for an ideal body treatment
Don't exfoliate too often. Once a week is enough to have visible effects.
An exfoliation is rather carried out on wet skin to avoid irritating the skin.
Apply the exfoliant making small circular massages.
Insist on areas where the skin is thicker (knees, elbows, and soles of the feet).
It is important to apply a moisturizing cream to the skin after exfoliation to restore the protection of the epidermis.