Our Total Body Guide to Skin Exfoliation

You already know the feeling. It’s when the skin on your face or body feels rough and looks dull. Or you’re wondering why makeup isn’t going on as evenly as it once did. We have a natural inclination to want to get rid of all the blah feelings and get even soft skin. And the way to get there is with regular exfoliation. But not all body parts or skin types should be treated with the same methods, so put aside the one-size-fits-all scrubbers and take notes to achieve total body smoothness.

What Is Skin Exfoliation?

Is it a tad creepy to say that your body is constantly making new skin? However it sounds, your skin is designed to continuously create new cells and eliminate dead cells by moving them up and out. When dead cells are left on that outer, visible layer of skin, you may notice flaky patches, clogged pores, and a dull, uneven appearance.

If there’s ever a moment to build a solid beauty routine, it’s upon knowing that your skin is trying to keep up appearances, but it needs your help. And that’s where exfoliation enters the conversation.

Exfoliating is a process that aids in removing the excess buildup of dead cells on the skin’s surface. Regular removal leads to smoother, brighter skin, fewer clogged pores, and collagen stimulation. This can be achieved in one of two ways:

• Mechanically – Physical exfoliants aren’t just scrubs that you scoop or squeeze out of a bottle. They can also include lightly abrasive loofahs, mitts, brushes, or a deeper skin exfoliation tool like a microdermabrasion device.
• Chemically – At-home chemical exfoliants are available in user-friendly concentrations and are meant to dissolve dead skin cells gently and slowly. Some may even have added skincare benefits. For example, alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) lactic acid has antibacterial properties and helps maintain hydration while revealing smoother skin. Dermatologists may use higher concentrations of skin-peeling acids for deeply penetrating exfoliation that typically requires some recovery time.

Mechanical Exfoliation Must-Haves

Choosing a great scrub has the added benefit of moisturizing emollients and skincare ingredients that won’t clog your freshly scrubbed pores.

A nourishing favorite is ELEMIS’ Frangipani Manoi Salt Glow. This no-nonsense salt scrub will take your nose on vacation with its heavenly floral scent. Coconut oil and floral extracts seal in moisture and protect your skin after the salt rinses away in the shower. Use this on your face and body once a week for a luxurious experience.

For a clean, polished feel, all skin types can choose Dr. Brandt’s Microdermabrasion Body. Tiny crystals provide effective skin exfoliation, while ingredients like calming chamomile and omega-rich sunflower oil work to keep skin soothed and supple. Smooth out any area below the neck, especially rough spots on the knees, elbows, and anywhere else to feel comfortable and confident in your skin.

Chemical Carry-Alls

Combination and oily skin types must pull double duty by removing dead skin cells and excess oil from pores. Dr. Brandt’s PoreDermabrasion Pore Perfecting Exfoliator can handle both tasks. It uses a physical exfoliant to brighten and even skin and salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that clears pores. This gel formulation uses clean, non-GMO ingredients and can help manage oil production with regular, twice-a-week use.

Many chemical exfoliators are a combination of skincare and anti-aging serums. BABOR’s Collagen Booster Ampoule Concentrates uses both lactic acid and citric acid, a mild AHA that provides gentle skin exfoliation, protective antioxidants, and pH balance. Of course, it doesn’t stop there. As a concentrated anti-aging serum, it has multiple peptides to boost collagen and elastin production and plant proteins to support healthy cell turnover. Your face, neck, and chest will see fewer wrinkles and refreshed, plump skin with continued use.

Other Areas of Note

Have you ever thought about exfoliating your scalp? It’s a great way to loosen any kind of buildup and stimulate circulation to encourage a healthy head of hair. Use a brush designed for this task, like Aveda’s Pramasana Exfoliating Scalp Brush. This uniquely designed skin exfoliation tool goes easy enough to be used daily on dry hair and feels like comforting self-care. This is not your average hairbrush, so make sure to follow directions for a pampered scalp.

What about getting ultra-lush lips to rock the boldest matte lipstick? A toothbrush may be a bit rough and doesn’t offer any moisture. But you can slough, soften, and soothe with the BUXOM Powerfull Lip Scrub. The handy lipstick design that resembles a dragon fruit quickly buffs off flaky skin with sugary granules and conditions lips with rich mango and papaya seed emollients. When you’re done, just wipe away the excess scrub, and you’re prepped for any (or no) makeup look.

What About Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is typically a professional service that uncovers smooth skin in two ways – stimulating exfoliation and light suction. But instead of making an appointment, get results with an at-home device like the PMD Personal Microderm Pro. Everyone can tackle their face and body with its customizable exfoliating discs ranging from very sensitive to intense treatment.

This is a powerful tool, and the learning curve is worth the investment into getting smoother texture, diminished fine lines and wrinkles, and a reduced appearance in dark spots. It also maximizes the absorption of skincare serums and moisturizers. Follow the directions closely, and once-a-week sessions will have you seeing why fans are ecstatic about their results.

Skin Type Tips

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says that your skin type should factor into choosing an exfoliation method.

• Sensitive skin types should opt for mild formulations or sloughing dead skin with a washcloth.
• Those with dry skin may prefer gentler, moisturizing options as well.
• Combination to oily skin types can hold up to stronger exfoliants.
• Be careful with heavier products if you’re oily and have a dark skin tone, as you can end up with dark spots.
• If being treated for acne, check your products or ask your dermatologist to ensure you’re not overdoing it by stacking up too many exfoliants.

After a thorough cleanse and exfoliating sesh, it’s time to finish the rest of the skincare process. If you need help completing the ideal steps for your skin, feel free to browse our Beauty Resource Center, where you can make informed decisions on building your best beauty routine.