Many people turn to exfoliation because they have heard it is the quickest and easiest way to achieve radiant, healthy-looking skin. The procedure, which involves sloughing off dead skin cells, can brighten up your complexion and help with issues like acne.
It's beneficial to exfoliate dry skin regularly. The frequency with which you exfoliate each week should be determined by your skin type and your goals. Avoiding exfoliation can lead to blocked pores and dull skin. However, if you exfoliate too frequently, you may risk irritating your skin.
We've included some helpful advice on body exfoliation below.
What is exfoliating soap?
Exfoliating soap is designed to remove dead skin cells and other impurities from the skin, such as dirt, oil, pollution, and even makeup. Unless you have a condition that causes your skin to react to exfoliants, exfoliating bar soap is generally well tolerated by all but the most sensitive skin types. Chemical exfoliants dissolve the lipid bonds that hold your dead skin cells together, enabling them to be wiped away, in contrast to physical exfoliation's reliance on manual removal. Be cautious, since overusing strong physical exfoliants can cause skin irritation. You can check out our blog post on Exfoliating Soaps here.
Exfoliating your skin, using whichever method you prefer, is vital to its health, as it helps remove dead skin and other debris. Acne and other skin irritations can be minimized, and the skin may even feel and appear more refined as a result.
What does exfoliating soap do?
A layer of lipid oils acts as an insulator between each successive layer of cells. The lipids that keep your skin soft and together are the first line of protection against harmful environmental factors. This lipid layer prevents moisture from evaporating from the skin, preventing dryness and cracking.
Whether it’s chemical or physical exfoliants a good bar of exfoliating soap will effectively at wipe away dead skin cells allowing new, softer skin to the surface. Physical exfoliating soap has components – like salt and pumice – that work by breaking down the skin's outer layers. This allows dirt and debris that have been trapped for hours, days, or even years to be washed away.
How often should I use exfoliating soap?
This is something that must be determined by your skin type. With dry skin, exfoliating twice or thrice weekly with a product that has moisturizing oils in addition to sloughing agents is likely to yield the best benefits. Exfoliating once a week with milder chemicals is recommended for those with sensitive skin. If you don't fit neatly into either category, try exfoliating once a week and observe how your skin reacts. Generally speaking, exfoliating once or twice weekly is optimal for most skin types.
Moisturizing is the key to prolonging the effects of your work. Every day, even days when you don't exfoliate, rub in body oil, lotion, or cream. Avoid developing calluses by massaging a moisturizing ointment into your hands and feet before bed. After all, who doesn't appreciate waking up to silky smooth skin? If you’re not sure how often you should hydrate your face, our facial hydrator blog post has all the info you need.
What can I use for daily exfoliation?
Designed with active lifestyles in mind, OffCourt’s rich-lathering body soap comes in three premium fragrances and is formulated tough enough for effective exfoliation but gentle enough for daily use.