How To Exfoliate Your Skin For A Smoother, More Youthful Look

Exfoliation is the key to getting skin that looks fresh, bright, and smooth.

As our skin ages, the rate of skin cell regeneration begins to diminish. The result is a dreary, dull skin tone. Proper exfoliation is essential to retain a healthy, radiant glow. But, not all forms of exfoliation are the same, and various skin types will need a personalized approach to exfoliation.

Most people know why it's important to routinely exfoliate skin. However, not everyone does it properly. The following are a few guidelines to get you on the right path for younger, fresher-looking skin.

1. If Your Skin Is Irritated Or Sensitive, Exfoliating Daily Is Not Necessary

Many people are apprehensive to skin exfoliation. This is simply because they are not doing it properly, or they are doing it too frequently and getting less than desired results.

If your skin is over sensitive - using a rich, creamy cleanser and washcloth a few times a week may be all that is required to gently exfoliate dead skin cells. Immediately after using a washcloth, generously apply a thick moisturizer to soothe, replenish and hydrate your skin.

People with overly-sensitive skin should avoid excessive scrubbing, which can result in undue irritation. Prior to applying a clay-based or exfoliating glycolic mask to your entire face, apply the product to a small area on your face to test for any irritation or skin sensitivities.

2. Exfoliating Gloves

Exfoliating gloves were created to use with or without exfoliate scrubs, and the majority of them are great to use on any part of your body. They are particularly useful for exfoliating your legs, as well as other larger areas of your skin where using a washcloth or small sponge may take too much time.

Simply apply the cleanser to the gloves and gently begin to scrub the area of your skin you wish to exfoliate. Completely rinse the gloves after you are finished and let them air dry naturally.

3. Use Facial Scrubs That Are Specifically Intended For Your Face

Make sure you use exfoliation products that are specifically intended for use on the face.

Many times, people confuse facial exfoliating products with body exfoliating creams and scrubs. If one is unintentionally used for the other, this can produce extreme sensitivity and/or skin irritation.

Make sure you are using the correct product specifically for the particular body part to achieve optimal results.

4. Moisturize After Scrubbing

Scrubbing, or exfoliating, is only the first step to younger, healthy skin. The second step is to thoroughly moisturize. You should always moisturize after exfoliating.

Routinely exfoliating may be tough on your skin and over time, may strip away its protective barrier of natural oils. Generously applying a high-quality moisturizing product to your skin can help replenish your natural skin barrier. Apply moisturizer several times a day as needed. This will keep your skin supple and fresh looking all day long.