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Saturday, June 9, 2012

EXFOLIATION = beautiful skin

EXFOLIATION = beautiful skin. 

Exfoliation is a key step that many people overlook. 




WHAT IS EXFOLIATION: 

A process that involves the removal of dead skin cells on the skin's outermost surface. This technique removes the outer layer of dead skin, to reveal the new skin beneath. Exfoliation helps unclog pores, maintain an even and clear skin tone and can also prevent breakouts. An important thing to remember is that exfoliation should always be done after cleansing the skin.

BENEFITS: exfoliation has a number of benefits and you don’t need to pay big bucks at a spa to achieve these results. Regular exfoliation to both your face and body, will brighten and even out your skin tone (particularly in problem areas eg cheeks and arms). It is also very useful for those with excessively oily skin.

DISADVANTAGES: there aren’t many disadvantage to exfoliating your skin. However, if the technique or products are not used correctly, this is where you can run into trouble. A very real disadvantage is the price of some of these products, especially when you see how well they work! Depending on your skin and the product/tool, you can experience initial redness (particularly to your face). Also, if chemical treatments/products such as peels and creams are misused, this can burn the skin, resulting in redness, peeling and scabbing. 




TYPES OF EXFOLIATION & TREATMENTS AVAILABLE: the two types of exfoliation are ‘physical exfoliation’ and ‘chemical exfoliation’:


Chemical exfoliation: there are a number of products and treatments available, both DIY, and those performed by dermatologists, beauticians and spas etc. Products include: scrubs/serums/creams containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, fruit enzymes, citric acid or malic acid all at different strengths (%). It is strongly recommended that you consult a skin specialist prior to using any of the above products. Individual skin varies depending on colour, thickness, oiliness and age.
Mechanical treatments available: chemical peels and microdermabrasian. These treatments are best performed by trained professionals.


Physical exfoliation: physical or DIY refers to exfoliation tools as opposed to creams and serums containing chemicals. Some great exfoliation tools include mitts/gloves, loofah hand & back straps, bath brushes (for hard to reach areas) and chemical free scrubs containing microbeads. While there are many effective chemical treatments out there, tools like the gloves also achieve beautiful results all over the body and face. This is also the safer option, particularly if exfoliation isn’t already part of your daily/weekly skin care routine. These are good tools to test out your skin and what works best  for you.




SJM’s RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS:



1.   A.S.A.P Clearskin Gel – this product contains: Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Citric Acid & Lactic Acid. I apply this to my face (after exfoliation with a glove) every second night. I also apply oil-free moisturiser for added moisture if my skin is very dry (particularly in the Winter months). This is available online and from some spas at approx. $30.00. This will last about 2-3 months depending on the variance of application.

2.   Exfoliating Gloves – these are available at most supermarkets, chemists and Priceline for approx. $5.00 or less. These are great for your face (applying less pressue), as well as your body. I have quite moist skin and can afford to use one of these gloves either daily or every second day without irritating/drying out my skin. This is VITAL for a good fake tan too!

3.   Natio Gentle Face Scrub – this product is available online, Priceline and some chemists. Containing small micro beads, it is a gentle way to clean and lightly exfoliate your face. This can be used daily and costs approx. $15.00 for two months supply.


PHOTO 1 FROM: www.citygirlsherine.blogspot.com PHOTO 2 FROM: www.static.ddmcdn.com



2 comments:

  1. i really like your blog..have fun reading it

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    1. Thank you :) glad you are enjoying it.

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