For exfoliation, a body scrub is the go-to option. Exfoliation is its sole purpose, sloughing off dead skin cells for incredibly soft and smooth skin. A dry brush, on the other hand, does exfoliate your skin a bit but its real magic lies in its benefits for your circulation.
Be gentle to your skin.
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.
Dry brushing is a no-fuss way of exfoliation. You use a brush to brush away your dead skin cells while increasing blood circulation & promoting lymph flow/drainage. All you need is a dry brush and a little bit of time to give the exfoliation that your skin needs. When dry brushing, you should never do it with wet skin.
Silicone scrubbers, mesh cloths, and soft cloths made of natural fibers are the best choice for those with these conditions, as well as those with acne. “These tools can help exfoliate the skin without being too harsh or causing micro-tears, which can exacerbate acne,” explains Dr. Lolis.
There is no difference between a scrub and an exfoliate. They are both the same. Just different words for the same process. Some exfoliates have grains as small as sand that will dissolve or turn foamy when activated with water while others remain their same hard as rocks self.
Dry, sensitive skin
For people with dry or sensitive skin, exfoliating twice a week is the maximum frequency dermatologists recommend. You may want to exfoliate only once a week or even every other week if you use products that can cause dryness and irritation, such as retinoids.
Although sugar scrubs are highly effective at physical exfoliation, they do not provide any other cleansing benefits. Salt scrubs, on the other hand, do detoxify the skin as they scrub, which can be a huge benefit for people struggling with overactive oil glands on the body, for example.
Just twice a week might be enough to provide noticeable results. From there, you can increase the frequency to body brushing daily if your skin requires it. It is important not to overdo it or be aggressive – a heavy hand will only irritate the skin and cause inflammation that could damage skin barrier function.
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.
Amazing Exfoliation: Dry brushing is fantastic for sloughing off dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling ultra-smooth and soft.
Take an ordinary washcloth and moisten with warm water, then use this to rub the skin gently in small circles. Cleansing the face before exfoliating may also be beneficial as this helps in cleaning the skin's pores. A natural sponge can work well to get rid of dead skin cells on the face.
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.
It depends on the product you're using and the ingredients. Generally, chemical exfoliants are applied to dry skin and then washed off with warm or cold water. If you're using a physical exfoliant on your body in the shower, exfoliating wet skin is much easier.
Glytone Rejuvenating Mini Peel Gel
This dermatologist-recommended chemical exfoliator can help improve uneven skin tone, rough texture, fine lines, and breakouts. We love it if you're looking for a potent, all-rounder treatment. It's also ideal for mature skin since it works to address fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
Mix 2 tbsp finely ground oatmeal with 1 tbsp honey and 1tbsp warm water to form a thick paste. Then, massage into your face (and/or body) and let it sit for 4 minutes to really absorb that oaty goodness before rinsing away with warm water. Use your scrub once or twice a week.
When it comes to morning versus night exfoliation, you're going to reap the best benefits from exfoliating in the morning time. This is due to the oils your skin produces overnight. You'll be able to more smoothly remove all impurities, dead skin, and oils, when you exfoliate in the morning, rather than at night.
You could potentially spread or worsen an infection. The same goes for dry brushing over warts. It is best to avoid brushing over moles or other growths since it might be irritating. For most people, facial skin is too sensitive for dry brushing so this should be avoided.
“The best practice is to avoid over-scrubbing because you want to maintain a healthy and intact skin barrier,” Dr. Khalifian notes. Going too hard can leave your skin red and irritated. Use it after cleansing, and always follow with moisturizer to lock in hydration.
After peeling, your skin is even more sensitive. Therefore, avoid direct sun exposure, which can lead to even more visible signs of aging. If you must expose yourself to the sun, use a broad spectrum physical sunscreen. Avoid strenuous workouts, dry saunas and steam baths.
While you might want to have glowing, freshly-exfoliated skin every day, over-exfoliating can cause damage to your skin and its natural barrier. Exfoliation should only occur once or twice a week and always moisturize afterward! This provides your fresh new skin with moisture and protection from the elements.
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.
Here's a general guideline: For sensitive or dry skin, opt for a sugar scrub. If your skin is balanced or oily, a salt scrub can effectively exfoliate. For detoxifying and soothing tired muscles, a salt scrub with Epsom salts may be ideal.
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Both can work, but chemical exfoliants, especially those with salicylic acid, are often more effective. Dry/Sensitive Skin: Gentle chemical exfoliants are usually better tolerated. Normal/Combination Skin: Can often benefit from both types, used alternately.
Best for Normal Skin
The Honey and Salt Scrub not only exfoliates but also leaves you feeling revived, energised, and rejuvenated. For the best skin results, we recommend combining this treatment with Parenie.