Revitalizing for Radiance

Step Two: EXFOLIATION

Exfoliation is an important step in a skin care regiment, although not a step that should be included on a daily basis. Even with the oiliest of skin types, three times a week is more than enough.

Exfoliation is the process of sloughing or buffing off the excess dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, revealing the fresher, younger cells beneath. While some cleansers contain acids that also affect cellular turn-over, a manual scrub can be used to finish the job. As the plump cells that are formed in the basal layer make their way to the surface, losing moisture and flattening out before finally setting on the surface, they can get caught up in excess oil, and need to be cleared away so that younger cells can take their place, and new cells can be formed.

As we age, the production of fresh cells slows, and exfoliation is the key to keeping the skin working!

Even for someone with dry skin, using a manual exfoliant once every few weeks will help to stimulate cell production and turn-over, leading to stronger, firmer, less sensitive skin.

Be careful not to use products that contain materials that are too sharp, like apricot kernels or walnut shells. While ideal for your feet, these may be too abrasive for your skin, causing microscopic tears in the skin. Instead, look for a scrub that uses jojoba beads, silica crystals or physician's grade microdermabrasian crystals to help buff away excess skin cells.

If you use an exfoliant that is too harsh or use it too often, your skin will be dry, irritated and red, and will not function properly. As nice as your skin feels after an exfoliation, too much of a good thing is definitely bad in this instance.

Next up, Step Three: Toning.