5 Common Scrubbing Mistakes to Avoid
We recommend including scrubbing in your body care routine all year round for clean and glowing skin that leaves your skin fresh. However, keep in mind that exfoliation is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Everybody and their skin type are unique, so for optimal results, customize your body-loving routine to meet your skin’s specific needs.
While scrubbing can help eliminate dead skin cells and improve skin health, incorrect exfoliation techniques can lead to irritation and itching.
There are certain exfoliation “don’ts” you should avoid. Worry not; we’ve got you covered. Continue reading to learn about the most common mistakes to avoid and how to exfoliate in style.
- Not Exfoliating Regularly
You probably aren’t exfoliating your skin enough if you’ve ever questioned why it feels rough underneath the surface or appears dull. Absent exfoliation, dead skin cells will accumulate and cause clogged pores, blackheads, and outbreaks.
As always, depending on your skin type, you should exfoliate to a different degree. Use a very light scrub and limit exfoliating to once or twice a week if you have sensitive skin. Stay away from strong chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid.
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Some skin types may require more frequent exfoliation. We advise doing it every two to three days for normal or dry skin, and every three to four days for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Scrubbing Too Hard
Although using a physical scrub to exfoliate can be quite pleasurable, they can be very harsh on your skin and cause a variety of skin problems.
Little particles are used by physical exfoliators, also known as mechanical exfoliators, to remove debris and dead skin cells from the skin.
Nevertheless, if done too often or too forcefully, you won’t simply end up eliminating dead skin, you could produce micro-abrasions on the skin surface or wind up destroying your skin barrier. This can then lead to skin discomfort, pain, or even outbreaks.
Be gentle and only use powerful physical scrubs on your body. Use a cellulose shea body scrub if you enjoy a vigorous physical scrub. When you rub the product into your skin, the natural substance cellulose clumps together to gently remove dead skin that is ready to come off.
Although it may appear as though you are physically rubbing dead skin off your face with this type of physical exfoliator, in reality, it is more likely the formula balls up as it reacts with the dead skin cells.
- Not Moisturizing After Scrubbing
If you believe that your labour is done once you have finished exfoliating, you are mistaken; your work is just halfway done.
Also, what you do right after getting out of the shower is extremely important.
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It would be best if you kept in mind to rehydrate your skin after removing the dirt and debris that had been living on your skin’s surface in the form of dead skin cells for a while.
It takes a lot of effort to scrub for more than a minute, and your skin is definitely thirsty. Exfoliating exposes new, undeveloped skin that hasn’t seen the light of day, so it’s crucial to moisturize afterwards with body oil or moisturizer.
- Don’t Let the Products Soak In
Exfoliating your skin for only a few seconds before washing it off is not effective. To get the best results, start by warming up your skin before applying your scrub. Allow the scrub to sit on your skin for 3-5 minutes, giving it time to absorb into your skin through your hair follicles.
Although this may seem like a long time, it’s the length of your favourite song, which you can sing and dance to without worrying about anyone watching. Alternatively, you can use this time to multitask by conditioning your hair or brushing your teeth.
After the scrub has been on for the recommended time, rinse it off and continue with your shower routine.
- Using the Wrong Products
It is essential to understand that there are two types of exfoliators: mechanical and chemical.
Mechanical exfoliators physically scrub the skin to remove dead surface skin cells, while chemical exfoliators are acids like AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs that penetrate the skin to break up and dissolve dead surface skin cells, promoting effective shedding.
T-cells on the skin’s surface are old keratinocyte cells held together by desmosomes, a glue-like substance. Chemical exfoliators dissolve this glue-like substance, allowing the dead skin cells to shed.
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AHAs and BHAs have different chemical compositions, functionalities, and penetration rates. BHAs, like salicylic acid, are oil-soluble and penetrate deeper, making them more effective at keeping pores clear.
AHAs, like glycolic acid, are used to improve skin texture, elasticity, and appearance.
Lactic acid, a mild form of AHA, is a highly hydrating acid that provides exfoliation and hydration.
Mandelic acid is a large molecular AHA that is gentle and effective for sensitive skin, penetrating slowly. Studies show that it reduces sebaceous glands and sebum production, making it highly effective in treating oily and problem-prone skin.
In summary, the exfoliation method that best suits your skin type depends on your individual skin concerns, so it’s crucial to consider them when choosing a plan.
FAQs
What is the best way to safely exfoliate?
To safely exfoliate, begin by dampening your skin with warm water and then gently applying your chosen product in small circular motions. It is recommended that you perform this process for about 30 seconds before rinsing your skin with lukewarm water.
Is it harmful to exfoliate daily?
Exfoliating your skin every day can lead to skin inflammation and the breakage of blood vessels, resulting in redness and irritation. It is advisable to limit exfoliation to 1-2 times per week to avoid such issues.
Is it necessary to moisturize after exfoliating?
It is highly recommended to moisturize your skin after exfoliating as the process can leave your skin dry. By using a good moisturizer, you can restore the lost moisture and keep your skin hydrated.
When is the best time to begin exfoliating?
You can start exfoliating at any time since it is a beneficial routine to incorporate into your skincare regimen. Exfoliation aids in the removal of dead skin cells and offers various other advantages. You can start by selecting a suitable body scrub and incorporating it into your routine today!
Filed under: Skin Care, Tips and Myths
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