A disciplined beauty routine is the foundation of good skin. It's a skincare tip which any beauty expert will recommend and advise one to start in their teens. A basic skincare routine comprises of cleansing, toning, moisturising and protecting. A frequently forgotten skincare step is that of exfoliation even though it is so very important. You need to pick the right method of exfoliation for your skin type to adequately remove debris and dead cells without irritating the skin. Whatever you do, ensure it's at least a weekly part of your skincare routine. If you're wondering why we're emphasising on exfoliation so much, continue reading.
Exfoliators Are Of 3 Main Types
1. Physical Exfoliators
These traditional exfoliators are most commonly used today. Often termed scrubs, they make use of bristles and granules to manually exfoliate the skin's surface. They are ideal for resilient skin types which aren't sensitive or easily irritable.
2. Chemical Exfoliators
These use chemical compounds instead of manual ingredients to dissolve the glue that holds skin together, thus sloughing dead cells sitting on the outermost layer.
3. Enzyme Exfoliators
They are also a form of chemical exfoliation which use enzymes to break down dead cells. This process occurs more slowly and gently, thus ideal for sensitive skin.
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Benefits Of Exfoliating The Skin
It unclogs dirt, oil and residual makeup which is caught in the pores
ADVERTISEMENTIt removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells residing on the surface
It provides a clear surface for skincare products to better penetrate the skin
ADVERTISEMENTIt stimulates blood circulation of the area that is scrubbed
It helps to achieve a more even skin tone and reveal its fresh and natural glow beneath the surface layer
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Of all the methods of exfoliation that exist, physical exfoliators are most commonly used due to their accessibility and affordability. Even if you can't get your hands on a physical scrub, the best part is you can make it at home. There are a number of pantry staples which can help scrub away dullness and dead skin.
Ingredients For Flawless Skin
Milk
Milk contains lactic acid, a natural AHA which helps exfoliate skin while its fat content keeps it moisturised.
Honey
Honey is known to give a gentle exfoliating effect while softening the skin and lending its antimicrobial properties.
Gold
Gold lends radiance to the skin, making it a popular addition in scrubs to add the final touches for glowing skin
Sugar
Brown or white sugar finds itself as the base of many homemade scrubs. Its granules can scrub dirt away thoroughly but it needs to be used with light pressure and gentle motion.
(Also Read: How To Make Coffee Scrub At Home For Gorgeous Skin)
How To Make A Face Scrub At Home
Exfoliation doesn't always require fancy bottles and tubes from beauty stores and chemists. It's possible to whip one up at home with easily available ingredients you can find in your home.
1. Brown Sugar Honey Scrub
Mix 3 tablespoons of granulated brown sugar with the same amount of raw honey or in proportion to form a thick paste. This can be stored in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks. Use it on a wet face in gentle circular motions, leave for 30 minutes and wash off with water. Brown sugar will scrub away dirt and honey will lend moisture.
2. Milk And Oatmeal Scrub
Pulse 3-4 tablespoons of oatmeal for a few seconds to make it finer. We want to it be less coarse and gentle when used on the skin. In a shallow bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of cold whole milk with the oatmeal and rub to apply on the face in circular motions. Allow it to sit for an hour for its dual physical and chemical exfoliating effects to have effect. Then wash away with warm water.
3. Coffee And Coconut Oil Scrub
To 2 tablespoons of liquid coconut oil, mix 2 tablespoons of finely ground coffee powder so that it becomes a runny paste. Apply on the face in gentle circular motions, allow it to sit for 20 minutes and wash with warm water. Coffee energises the face and provides the physical component while coconut oil heals and moistens it.
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(Also Read: 5 Steps That Are A Must In Your Daily Skin Care Routine)
