Exfoliation is an important part of regular skin care but it’s important to do it correctly. Find out if you’re guilty of any of these common mistakes, which can actually be worse for your skin than not exfoliating at all.
You’re Scrubbing Too Hard
While it is important to get into the dirt that’s stuck deep down below the surface of the skin, keep in mind that you’re not trying to rub your skin off. Take it easy and scrub gently. Remember, the product is doing the exfoliating so you don’t need to add a lot of pressure when applying it to get the job done. In fact, scrubbing too hard can remove the soft, healthy layer of skin you need. Plus, it can be pretty painful. You face is sensitive so treat it with care.
You’re Thinking of Exfoliating as a One-Step Process
While exfoliating itself is only one-step, it shouldn’t be the only step in your process. Exfoliating needs to be followed-up with a proper skin care routine. That means, applying a serum and a night cream. (Ideally, you should exfoliate at night before bed.) If you don’t follow up with cream, your skin will dry out and all the effort you just put into removing the dead, dry skin will have been for nothing.
You’re Using the Wrong Products
Whether you use a lufa or a gentle scrub lotion, you should be sure you’re using one that is not only made for the gentle skin on the face, but made for your face. If you have sensitive skin, be sure to use gentle products designed to be gentle enough for your face. Too often, women use products that are too harsh, which can result in redness, itchiness and dry skin – the very problem we are seeking to fix with exfoliation. After exfoliating, your skin should feel fresh and soft.
You’re Not Using Water
Water is key to a proper exfoliating regimen. It keeps the skin hydrated and prevents the products you’re using from burning the skin or causing irritation. Remember, exfoliating should feel good and should leave your skin feeling better, not worse.
