How to Exfoliate

Alana Mitchell, Licensed Esthetician, Day Spa Owner

Exfoliating is kind of like flossing; we all know we should do it, but most of us don’t. Honestly, removing dead skin is the quickest way to smoother, younger, and brighter skin. It’s also helpful for preventing blemishes. SO, DO IT! Here are the basics:

Choosing an Exfoliator
There are a number of types and methods of exfoliators.

Chemical: Chemical peels use ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids, retinoic acids, or natural enzymes to remove dead cells.

Hillary Swank's all over smooth skin

Cleansing Grains: Scrubs that contain tiny rough granules that remove dead skin when applied to the face with friction. (Think of sand paper against wood…only way less harsh)

Mechanical: Exfoliating treatments, such as microdermabrasion, are preformed by an esthetician and deliver powerful results.

Exfoliating Pads and Loofahs: These exfoliating tools are harsh and should be used only on your body and not on your face.

Pumice Stones: Highly abrasive tools that are great for removing stubborn dead skin from small areas such as elbows, knees, and soles.

Epicuren Exfoliating Cream

How To Exfoliate:
Face: Like most things in life, the technique depends on the product you choose, so always read the instructions carefully. When using a facial scrub, apply the scrub to the skin and gently massage over the surface in small circles. Choose a scrub with fine, round granules instead of jagged ones. My absolute favorite scrub is Epicuren Micro Derm Exfoliating Cream. When using an at-home chemical peel, follow the directions carefully. Epicuren Pumpkin Apple Spice Peel gives great results and smells like fall:) NEVER exfoliate the skin under your eyes. Always stop at the cheeks.

Apple Body Scrub

Body: Exfoliate body skin while you are in the bath or shower and your pores are open and your skin is wet. Always rub your body toward your heart. 100% Pure makes a great body scrub ($15-$25) in every scent you can imagine. Whenever using a tool, rub GENTLY, paying special attention to areas like your elbows, knees, and heels.

If you have very dry, delicate, or sensitive skin, be cautious! Don’t be afraid to leave a treatment on for less time than the label says. As always, pay attention to your skin and adjust as needed.

From so many requests, I have developed a special page on my shopping cart site skincarebyalana.com with a special page set aside with exfoliators I love, click here to see it.
Hope this helps, click here to call or email me with questions!