Those with dry, sensitive or acne-prone skin may prefer just a washcloth and a mild chemical exfoliator, as mechanical exfoliation may be too irritating for this skin type. Those with oily, thicker skin may want to use stronger chemical treatments or mechanical exfoliation.
Using a Washcloth: Exfoliation: A washcloth can provide mild exfoliation, helping to remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture. Lathering: It can help create a richer lather with soap or body wash, which may enhance the cleansing process.
Many dermatologists recommend cleansing skin with your hands over a shower loofah or washcloth. Using your hands will get your body clean as long as you wash them first. It's a great option for people with sensitive skin. Loofahs are breeding grounds for bacteria.
Don't overdo it: Only use a washcloth a few times a week, especially if you have sensitive skin. And make sure to use gentle, circular motions when rubbing it on your skin to avoid causing irritation. Moisturize: After using a washcloth, it's important to moisturize your skin to keep it hydrated and healthy.
Mechanical Exfoliation: in contrast to chemical exfoliation, mechanical exfoliation removes dead skin physically. This technique may involve the use of a soft brush or a washcloth to gently rub in circles on the face. Most effective on normal to oily skin types, this tends to be more harsh than chemical exfoliation.
The verdict: Using your hands is perfectly fine as long as you wash them first to avoid spreading bacteria. Dr. Schlessinger also recommends using gentle circular motions when massaging cleanser onto your face or body.
I'm sorry to all the loofah lovers out there — a washcloth is the better option of the two. "Loofahs, typically made from dried gourds, provide a vigorous exfoliation, which can be beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin," notes Dr. Chacon. Still, they're the much harsher option when it comes to exfoliation.
"I recommend using a washcloth which can be washed after use or if you want to exfoliate, then consider an exfoliating glove that is washable or a silicone body scrubber which will dry out completely, reducing the chance of bacterial growth."
Most dermatologists recommend simply using your hands to lather your body wash and exfoliate because it's hygienic and isn't as likely to cause injury to the skin, according to Westbay.
The “black stuff” when you rub your skin is nothing but dead cells, dirt and surface grime. It comes off due to friction caused by rubbing your skin.
The best method for exfoliation is buffing your product into damp skin in small, circular motions or using an exfoliating tool in short, light strokes. You should never exfoliate immediately after shaving, especially if you have an open cut or sunburn.
The best body exfoliator comes in the form of a leave-on exfoliant, like an AHA or BHA. When well formulated, a chemical body exfoliant gently dissolves the bonds holding dead skin to the surface – revealing smooth, glowing and bump-free skin.
As your hands touch many potential contaminants throughout the day, using a suitable washcloth is often safer. Scrubbing: Being too vigorous when you scrub can cause micro-tears in your delicate facial skin. Instead, use a washcloth in small, circular motions to exfoliate.
Showering the right way
Avoid taking excessively long showers or baths that can strip away oils from your skin's outer layer. Keep showers at about 10 minutes and be sure to apply a skin moisturizer afterward. Do not shower or bathe in extremely hot water.
"Neither are necessary," explains Dr. Mudgil. "But if you're going to choose one, wash cloths are much better than loofahs, provided you only use the cloth one time before washing it. Both can harbor bacteria, but loofahs are much more prone to doing so given all their 'nooks and crannies.
According to Dr. Engelman, exfoliating mitts, towels, and sponges are the best options for the shower since they are designed to be used on wet skin.
"Adult skin can be washed every day, but only if using these guidelines: short showers, lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser," she says. "Aggressive, daily cleaning techniques will cause skin to break down, flaring atopic dermatitis, eczema, and often causing uncomfortable itchy, red skin."
A dermatologist is going viral for sharing the top 3 body parts most people don't wash frequently enough. This includes behind your ears, your belly button, and under your fingernails. And according to the dermatologist, not washing these areas can lead to some pretty nasty infections.
Microorganisms can grow on washcloths if the material doesn't dry completely. If you leave your wet washcloth in the bath/shower between uses instead of letting it completely dry, you're better off using your bare hands.
If you use a scrub or chemical exfoliator, apply the product gently using small, circular motions. Do this for about 30 seconds, and then rinse off with lukewarm — not hot — water. If you use a brush or sponge, use short light strokes. Never exfoliate if you have open cuts or wounds or if your skin is sunburned.
"Nothing happens if you don't exfoliate — you just walk around with bumpy or slightly dry skin, which is inconsequential except for cosmetic reasons," Dr. Reynolds says. "No one has to exfoliate, but it can be helpful to exfoliate the arms and legs," she adds.
Lactic Acid (AHA) is a great all rounder but is a gentler choice of exfoliator for sensitive skin and mature skin. Lactic acid is detoxifying and more moisturising than glycolic acid while still sloughing off dead skin cells to reveal a radiant, smoother complexion.