The Dos & Don'ts of Exfoliating

Almost every beauty and skincare brand includes exfoliators within their product line; with salt scrubs becoming popular in recent years, as well as magnesium-based exfoliants, there is no end to the options for this remarkable skincare treatment. In this article, we share with you the essential dos and don’ts of exfoliating, providing you with an understanding of how to incorporate scrubs into your skincare routine effectively, and how not to misuse them.

Don’t pick the wrong ingredient for your concern

There are many different types of exfoliants, and thankfully, as consumers, we are offered an abundance of options. Though it can be tempting to use the first scrub you see on the shelf, picking the right type will prevent you from potential rashes, damaged skin, and wasted money and effort. The main ingredient of each scrub type targets different concerns of the body, and learning what each one does is imperative. For example, users praise coffee scrubs for combating cellulite, whereas salt scrubs concentrate on rejuvenating the skin.

Do exfoliate your body frequently

Exfoliating your body regularly has many benefits for your skin and skincare routine. Though some people prefer to only use exfoliators for times when they need it, it’s best to use them continually, to avoid dry skin build-up and sensitivity to ingredients. Using an exfoliator can help to better your skincare application; after using a scrub, you’ll find your moisturiser will apply better, penetrating the skin quickly. Removing and applying fake tan will feel easier with a scrub as well. A consistent scrub application will also help your skin’s appearance, helping to remove dirt and grime that causes body acne and blemishes.

Don’t use body exfoliators on your face

One of the golden rules of skincare is applying the right product for the right area, and this is especially concerning for exfoliators. The ingredients used in body scrubs are considerably more abrasive compared to ones created for the face, and when used, can cause tears to the skin quickly. You will notice that after one application, your face will feel damaged, often painful to touch, and will look red and irritated. Reading the directions of the product is essential when choosing your exfoliator, to avoid irritation happening to you.

Do exfoliate dry skin

While this piece of advice may sound obvious, many people avoid exfoliating dry skin because of heightened sensitivity and the unwillingness to further aggravate the issue. However, to ensure any topical moisturising products can work effectively, exfoliation is essential to remove the dead skin layer and rejuvenate the area.