What is exfoliation?

The word exfoliate means “to separate or flake off in thin layers or scales,” which doesn’t sound like something we’d want to happen to our faces and bodies. But in truth, exfoliation is an essential component of skin care. Regular soap and cleansers only swipe at the skin’s surface; they don’t lift off old dead cells to expose the shiny new ones below. When you exfoliate, you’re sloughing off dead skin and exposing the fresher, brighter, younger cells beneath.
 

Why exfoliate?

“Exfoliation can give the skin a look of greater radiance, give the appearance of tightening the pores and over time maybe reduce the appearance of fine lines. It can also make the skin feel softer and boost the effectiveness of moisturizing products by helping them penetrate more deeply.
 

Exfoliating 24/7

Dermatologists recommend exfoliating your face once or twice a week and your body at least three times a week. The milder and more gentle your exfoliating product, the more frequently you can use it. Ian Hutson, owner of the Camden Spa in Toronto, claims that he frequently sees people who exfoliate every day. And who can blame them? A once-over with a gently exfoliating bar or scrub perks up circulation, invigorates the body and feels great.

Apply a moisturizer containing alpha or beta hydroxy acids. These acids will continue the exfoliating process, because acids cause additional dead skin cells to slough off.