Shed the Years With Exfoliation

Exfoliation dates back to Egyptian times.  It is considered a health benefit as well as a beautifier.  Exfoliation can be done for either the face or the whole body and there are various methods for this.  Let’s take a look and see if exfoliation is for you.

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead cells to reveal the younger fresher cells below.  Our skin is constantly making new cells and these push the older cells upward to the surface.  These surface cells are filled with keratin which protects the skin.  As we age, these cells begin to build up.  Exfoliation removes these excess cells leaving a more youthful and healthy appearance to our skin.  There are two ways in which exfoliation is done.  Let’s take a look and see.

The most common type of exfoliation is mechanical in nature.  The use of a scrub brush at home will help you to exfoliate regularly while trips to the spa are more involved but definitely worth the trouble.  Any good bath brush with natural bristles will exfoliate.  While in the shower, start at your feet in small circles and work your way up, always toward the heart to encourage increased blood flow.  At your arms work your way toward your heart as well.  Doing this in the morning is a great way to get the blood flowing.  Take care not to over scrub and cause abrasions on the skin.

 A popular exfoliation treatment at spas is called the salt scrub. Salt is combined with oils and aromatics and massaged into the skin by a therapist.  This moisturizes the skin during exfoliation.  The patient then showers taking care not to wash off the aromatics.  While this is considered a chemical exfoliation, sea salt is pretty abrasive and the therapist may be heavy handed.  Nevertheless, this is considered the luxury form of exfoliation.  Some even combine it with a body wrap or massage afterward.

Chemically or mechanically done, exfoliation rejuvenates the skin and circulatory system while maintaining a healthy glow to the skin.  Done regularly and correctly, exfoliation can be a beneficial Neutrogena addition to your healthcare.