Exfoliating the skin can make it appear softer, smoother and increase the effectiveness of beauty treatments. To get the best possible results and avoid irritating the skin, it is however important to choose the right product, based on the characteristics of the skin. To exfoliate the skin on the face safely and effectively it is best to consult a dermatologist. In general, there are a number of medical products and treatments that you can experiment with. Also, you can try using some home remedies as well.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Exfoliate the Skin at Home
Step 1. Collect your hair
If they are long, it is best to tie them with a rubber band to keep them away from the face. If you have bangs, you can use a hair band to get a free forehead.
Step 2. Dampen a soft, clean cloth with warm water
It must be hot but not hot, otherwise you risk getting burned. Place the wet washcloth on your face, then wait a couple of minutes for the heat to help open the pores. Alternatively, you can take a long hot shower.
Step 3. Use your favorite facial cleanser
When the pores are well dilated, wash your face with the cleanser you usually use. It is not necessary to rub the skin hard, what matters is that the face is clean before exfoliating it.
Step 4. Test on a small patch of skin first
Before using a new product, you should always test it before applying it all over your face, to make sure you avoid an allergic reaction. Choose a small area of your face, on the side or on the chin. Moisten the area and then apply the exfoliant. Wait about five to ten minutes. If you start to feel stinging in that area, wash it to remove the product completely and, of course, stop using it. If you have no reaction, you are then free to use it on the rest of the face.
Step 5. Use the scrub
Whatever product you have chosen, be prepared to use it. You may have bought it ready-made or followed a recipe for a home scrub. Either way, apply it to clean, still damp skin. You can use your fingers or the warm, wet cloth you used earlier. The scrub should be applied with circular movements; massage it gently all over your face to remove dead cells.
- If you want to use an exfoliating sponge or brush, pat your skin with short, gentle strokes for about 30 seconds.
- Avoid using the scrub if you have wounds, bruises, sunburn (sunburn or otherwise) or skin rashes on your face.
Step 6. Wash off the scrub with warm, not hot, water
Eliminate all traces of product by rinsing the skin thoroughly. When your face is perfectly clean, perform a final rinse with cold water to help close the pores. Check that you have removed any sticky or grainy residue.
Step 7. Dab the skin to dry it
Use a soft, clean towel to gently pat your entire face dry. Do not scrub, as the skin may be more sensitive than normal after exfoliation (so you may risk irritating it further).
Step 8. Apply a moisturizer with an SPF
After the scrub, use a non-comedogenic moisturizer (which does not clog pores) that also protects you from the harmful rays of the sun, to preserve skin tone and prevent the appearance of pimples or blackheads. Once the dead surface cells are removed, the sun could easily damage or burn the new skin underneath, so be sure to use sunscreen if you intend to spend time outdoors.
Use a cream with an SPF of no less than 15
Step 9. Plan your treatments
If you have oily, thick skin, chances are you can exfoliate it every day without damaging it. If, on the other hand, you have dry or sensitive skin, you should do the scrub 1-2 times a week maximum. If your face becomes red or irritated, reduce the frequency further and consult your doctor.
Method 2 of 4: Dermatological Products
Step 1. Find out what your skin type is
It could be oily, dry, or normal - it's important to determine this before purchasing an exfoliating product. Dry skin tends to crack and be itchy, while oily skin often appears shiny and greasy to the touch. In many cases, the skin type can vary based on the area of the face, for example you may have oily skin on your forehead and dry cheeks. If so, it is best to use products formulated for normal skin or choose those for your predominant skin type.
Step 2. Choose the right ingredients for your skin type
If it is oily or normal, you should choose a product that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These ingredients can help alleviate and prevent acne. You can also use a cleanser based on alpha-hydroxy acids, natural substances that help eliminate dead skin cells. Use a product that contains retinoic acid if you need to even out the complexion and reduce wrinkles.
- If you have dry skin, you should avoid using the products listed above and scrubs that contain glycolic acid, as they are too aggressive. In general, you should avoid any chemicals and prefer cosmetics based on natural ingredients, as they are less invasive.
- Absolutely avoid cosmetics that contain more than 10% glycolic acid or more than 2% salicylic acid.
- If you are allergic to aspirin, you should avoid using any product that contains salicylic acid.
Step 3. Choose a scrub that contains microspheres if you have dry or sensitive skin
If you have sensitive skin, use a product that contains synthetic microspheres with a smooth surface. Exfoliants of this type are also suitable for dry or easily irritated skin. If, on the other hand, you have oily skin, it is better to choose a scrub that contains larger and rougher balls, for a more energetic exfoliation.
Step 4. Try using an electric exfoliating brush
These innovative facial cleansing systems using sonic technology have been designed by several brands (for example "Clarisonic"). Their function is to remove the surface layer of dry or dead cells from the face. They also eliminate all kinds of impurities without irritating the skin. While it is true that they do not guarantee the same effectiveness as a professional microdermabrasion treatment, it is equally certain that these brushes are much less expensive.
Method 3 of 4: Make a Face Scrub with Natural Ingredients
Step 1. Blend the baking soda with water, then apply the mixture to your face
Baking soda naturally exfoliates the skin in a gentle way. Leave the scrub on for 10 minutes, then rinse your face using a soft cloth and plenty of warm water.
- You can also try a combination of honey and baking soda.
- If you have sensitive skin, you can use baking soda and aloe gel.
Step 2. Make a mask with avocado, honey and sugar
Crush the fruit and mix it with two tablespoons of honey and one tablespoon of sugar. The sugar grains will act like microspheres, while the honey and avocado will nourish the skin.
- If you have oily skin, it is best to add 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice to dry and close the pores.
- Leave the mask on for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing your face with plenty of warm water.
Step 3. Blend a nourishing oil with sugar
You can make a natural scrub using different types of oils. For example, use one made from a variety of tree nuts, which contains high doses of omega-3 fatty acids, to make skin younger and firmer. Dissolve a tablespoon of white or brown sugar in about two tablespoons of the selected oil, then apply the mixture to your face using a soft cloth. You will need to gently scrub the skin in small circular motions. Rinse your face with plenty of warm water. Here is a list of recommended oils:
- Coconut oil;
- Almond oil;
- Extra virgin olive oil;
- Grapeseed oil;
- Chamomile essential oil;
- Avocado oil
- Safflower oil.
Step 4. Make a scrub with cornstarch or flour from a variety of nuts of your choice (use almond or walnut flour for example)
In any case, dissolve it in a small amount of water; the result must have a pasty consistency. Apply a generous amount to the skin of your face, then let the scrub work for about 15 minutes before rinsing off with plenty of warm water.
If you are allergic to nuts, absolutely avoid using this type of flour
Step 5. Revitalize your skin with a coffee scrub
The rough texture of the coffee powder, combined with its caffeic acid content, makes this commonly used ingredient a great exfoliant. Caffeic acid has anti-inflammatory properties and promotes an increase in collagen production. The result will be smooth and healthy skin.
- Mix a tablespoon of ground coffee with a tablespoon of water or extra virgin olive oil, then apply the mixture to your face. If you have particularly oily skin, it is better to use water instead of oil. Leave the scrub on for about 15 minutes, then rinse with plenty of warm water.
- Do not use instant coffee, it would dissolve in water immediately.
- An alternative is to make a steam mask for 20 minutes to help open the pores. When finished, mix a tablespoon of ground coffee with a small amount of milk or honey to form a thick mixture, then apply it to your face in circular motions. Leave the scrub on for 20 minutes, then rinse your skin with plenty of cold water to help close the pores.
Step 6. Make skin softer and more hydrated with an oatmeal scrub
This formula is particularly suitable for those with dry skin, as oats nourish the skin as well as exfoliate it.
- Mix two tablespoons of oat flour with a teaspoon of salt or sugar and a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil or water. If you have oily skin, it is best to opt for salt and water; if you have dry skin, use sugar and oil to moisturize it.
- Apply the mixture to your face, then let the ingredients sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing off with plenty of warm water.
Method 4 of 4: Professional Treatments
Step 1. Go to a beauty center
You could book a relaxing day at a spa that includes a facial scrub. The dermatological treatments offered by spas and beauty centers are many and include exfoliation, facial cleansing, anti-aging masks, eye contour treatments and much more. If possible, give yourself a regenerating and relaxing break from time to time. While you're there, add a massage too.
Step 2. Try a professional microdermabrasion treatment
It acts as a shower of microcrystals that remove dry or dead cells from the surface of the skin. The pores are clean and the skin rejuvenated, but the process must be repeated after a few weeks to maintain its positive effects.
- Despite being quite expensive, microdermabrasion treatment is non-invasive and can be done in a dermatologist's office.
- To obtain lasting results, it is advisable to repeat the treatment every 2-3 weeks for a total of about 6-10 sessions.
- Microdermabrasion is not recommended if your skin tends to scar easily or if you have been taking an isotretinoin drug in the past six months.
- If you are treating acne, ask your dermatologist for advice before undergoing this type of treatment.
Step 3. Try a chemical peel
If you don't have dry or sensitive skin, you can have this cosmetic treatment at a dermatologist every 4-6 weeks. The chemical solution used to exfoliate contains a high concentration of salicylic acid and retinoic acid, which promote faster cell regeneration. After the treatment the first layers of skin will peel off, after which the body will begin to heal and regenerate. The new skin will be smoother and more toned.
- Generally this treatment costs around € 250 per session;
- The chemical peel can be done at different levels (light, medium or deep), depending on the desired results. The higher the intensity, the longer it will take for the skin to heal.
- After the treatment, the skin generally appears red and irritated. Other less common side effects include scarring, changes in skin color, and infections. Following deep treatment, heart or liver disease may arise due to the chemicals used.
- Check with your doctor to find out if your health condition allows you to undergo a chemical peel. It is not a suitable treatment for everyone.
Warnings
- Some cosmetics can make the skin very sensitive or prone to crack easily, for example those that contain benzoyl peroxide or retinol. Be especially wary of scrubbing if you are down using one of these products.
- If you have very dark skin or skin that tends to scar easily, consult a dermatologist before exfoliating it. Using inappropriate techniques may risk changing the color permanently.
- If you've noticed that a mole or skin defect is widening or changing, have it seen by a doctor right away
