What is exfoliation?
Exfoliation comes from the latin word exfoliare, which means to strip off leaves. It is the process by which we remove the skin's dead cells sitting on top of the outermost layer, the epidermis. This is exactly what happens during a facial, a microdermabrasion or if you have deeper skin problems, a chemical skin peel.
Why is it needed?
Dead skin cells sitting on top of your epidermis, not only make it look dull and lifeless but it prevents your skin from breathing correctly and take in moisture or absorb the creams you are probably already applying. It's like plain old dirt just sitting on your skin. It simply has to go. So if your skin is feeling dry, too oily, scaly or lacking of a healthy glow, It may be time for an exfoliation.
Besides "cleaning" your skin, it also:
- Helps your skin better absorb your serum and moisturizer
- It helps keep signs of aging away but keeping skin elastic
- It helps brighten dark spots
- Helps reduce the appearance of dark spots
- Helps eliminate blackheads
- Improves your skin's texture
- Aids with Acne breakouts
- Helps makeup application by reducing dry spots
- On areas you shave, it minimizes ingrowns
- It helps with circulation
How often is recommended?
Once per week is usually plenty for the general population without deep skin issues. remember to be gentle on your skin, at-home exfoliation should never be painful or leave you feeling sore. A little tingling is normal but if you exfoliate too vigorously or with harsh products you may do more damage than good (albeit your best intentions) by breaking blood vessels. And that, my friends, is a big no-no.
Is exfoliation just for your face?
Absolutely not, exfoliation is a great remedy for every inch of your body. In fact, ancient Egyptians used wine to exfoliate their bodies and in Asia the practice was widespread as far back as scientist can recollect. Have you ever tried a Korean Spa or a Moroccan Hammam? no? Girl, it's time to go. You'll love it.
The DIY recipe
1 tsp european full fat yogurt (or any other you like, without dyes or sugar)
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp Argan Oil
Mix it in a bowl and apply it in massaging circular motions to your clean face, neck and décolleté.
This will simulate a mild yet effective microdermabrasion, allowing the dead skin cells on the surface of your face to fall off & new, fresh cells to shine through.
Clean your face with lukewarm water, and apply a thin layer of Aynara Pure Argan Oil after warming it up in the palms of your hands. Follow it up with a good green tea toner and do this once a week or every 10 days to aid your skin achieve a nicer complexion.
Enjoy!
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