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Every minute, about 30,000 dead skin cells shed. However, some dead cells do not naturally shed. They are filled with dirt and bacteria, making the skin dull and dark. They clog the pores, leading to acne and premature aging. Therefore, exfoliating is necessary to help the skin look younger.
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the outermost layer of the skin. It is an essential step in skincare. The human skin takes 28-30 days to regenerate new skin cells and push out the layer of dead cells. On one hand, this layer protects the skin from external harmful factors. On the other hand, if this layer becomes too thick, it prevents the absorption of skincare nutrients and hinders the nourishment of new skin. Therefore, your skin will become duller and less smooth.
To address this issue, exfoliating is the number one priority. Facial exfoliation helps to regenerate new skin, prevent and reduce acne, and give you smoother and softer skin. This step also helps skincare nutrients penetrate deep into the skin, maximizing their benefits. There are usually two methods for you to choose from: physical exfoliation and chemical exfoliation.
Who should exfoliate?
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Everyone should clean their skin using this exfoliation method. However, the frequency of exfoliation varies depending on the skin type:
- For normal skin: exfoliate twice a week
- For dry skin: exfoliate twice a week
- For sensitive skin: exfoliate once a week
- For oily skin: exfoliate three times a week
- For combination skin: exfoliate twice a week
The proper steps to exfoliate your face
This exfoliation process is crucial. Without this step, you cannot effectively nourish or take care of your skin. The following three steps ensure you exfoliate your skin properly, just like in a spa:
Step 1: Open up your pores by steaming your face or using a warm towel.
You can do this step by using a facial steamer or by traditional steam. Prepare a bowl of warm water and add a few drops of natural essential oil or beneficial herbal ingredients. Then, cover your head with a large towel, keeping a comfortable distance between your face and the bowl of steam, and steam for about 10 minutes to open up your pores and relax your skin naturally.
If you don’t have time for steaming, you can also wash your face with warm water or apply a warm towel on your face to open up your pores and slightly moisturize your skin, which is beneficial for the exfoliation process.
Step 2: Cleanse your face thoroughly.
Cleanse your face with a specialized facial cleanser. This step removes dirt and excess oil on the skin surface. Apply the cleanser to your hand, then gently massage it onto your face before rinsing with water. Pat your face dry with a towel.
Step 3: Exfoliate
You can exfoliate using natural ingredients or a facial scrub.
If you are using natural exfoliants: Mix all the prepared ingredients into a paste and gently massage it onto your face. This method can also be used for the body. The dead skin cells will be removed during the massaging process, and the gentle natural ingredients will not irritate your skin, leaving a gentle and pleasant scent. Using natural exfoliants is also cost-effective as you can store and use them multiple times.
If you are using a facial scrub: Take a small amount of the scrub and massage it evenly onto your face, then rinse with warm water. Some facial scrubs may contain exfoliating ingredients that can dry out your skin, so be sure to moisturize your skin after exfoliating to avoid dryness.
Review of the top 13 popular exfoliators at the moment
Fresh turmeric and honey
Fresh turmeric and honey are commonly used beauty ingredients for women. This is an exfoliating formula that removes dead cells, dirt, and excess sebum from the skin. You can apply it 2 times per week to achieve bright, smooth skin. Fresh turmeric and honey also have soothing and healing effects on the skin.
Instructions:
- Mix about 3 spoons of fresh turmeric with 1 spoon of honey.
- Apply the mixture evenly to your face and gently massage to clean the skin.
- Massage and relax for a while.
- Rinse your face with warm water.
Exfoliating with white sugar
White sugar with tiny granules and abundant glycolic acid is effective in removing rough, dead skin cells, making the skin soft and firm.
- 1 tablespoon of white sugar
- Facial cleanser
Instructions: Put the white sugar and facial cleanser in a clean bowl, mix well. Wet your face with water and then apply the mixture all over your face. Massage gently for a few minutes, removing the layer of dead cells and dirt accumulated in the pores. Rinse your face with warm water. Exfoliating your face with white sugar once a week will yield great results.
Effective Skincare Tips for Oily Acne-Prone Skin in Summer
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The summer months can be a difficult time for individuals with acne-prone skin. To help reduce breakouts and maintain healthy skin, here are several effective skincare tips for keeping oily skin in check.