Exfoliation

An often over looked factor of skin care is Exfoliation. A technique dating back to the ancient Egyptians, it involves removing the top layer of dead cells off the skin. Everyday the skin naturally flakes off dead skin cells, as new ones develop underneath. However instead of the skin flaking off naturally it is not uncommon for the dead skin to build up, giving the skin blemishes and a dull look. It may also cause clogged pores. Exfoliating removes the dead skin to reveal the newer, fresher skin lying beneath.

Your probably don't release it, but there is a good chance you already exfoliate! If you've ever waxed or shaved you've unknowingly taken the top layer of dead cells off your skin. One theory is that men seem to age less than women because they tend to exfoliate when shaving, slowing the aging process.

There are two different methods you can use to exfoliate: chemical or abrasive   

Chemical

Using different types of acids (such as citric, malid, salicylic, or fruit enzymes) the exfoliate works by loosing the pores, allowing them to be eased away. The stronger versions can only be supplied and applied by dermatologists, but lesser concentrated versions are available over the counter, usually in the form of a scrub. Chemical Exfoliation is recommended to any one that suffers from acne.

 Abrasive

Otherwise known as mechanical Exfoliation, this is the more used and well-known ways to exfoliate. As the name suggests this is when you yourself physically remove the dead skin by using a product such as a loofah or micro-fibre cloth, and an exfoliate product. These exfoliates are the most readily available, usually coming in the form of creams or in a liquid form with something such as jojoba beans to give it a rough texture.      

Somethings to note

• Exfoliation can be done to all the skin, but be sure to use different exfoliates for your face and body.

•  Be aware that the skin will appear red and may tingle after you have exfoliated, especially the first few times.

• Your skin will be left quite vulnerable because of the fresh newly exposed skin, so do make sure you put sunscreen on afterwards, which you should be doing everyday anyway as part of your natural skin care

• Always clean your skin first, use warm water and rub the exfoliate in gentle circles. Avoid the skin underneath your eyes, as this area is just too sensitive to exfoliate. Once you have finished rinse with warm water and pat the skin dry. Use moisturizer afterwards.

• If using a chemical exfoliate, make sure you stop use if you experience burning afterwards.

• Exfoliation is not a process that should be done everyday, once or twice a week should be enough, you don't want to dry out your skin too much.

Try to stay away from using plastic beads for Exfoliation as they take a very long time to biodegrade and when washed into rivers and oceans are very harmful to marine life, and can end up killing other animals that shallows too much of it.