Skin…it’s the largest organ on your body and will keep renewing itself your entire life.

As we age our skin renewal process slows down sometimes causing a flaky, dull complexion. This build up of dead skin cells needs to be removed to encourage new cell production and improve the skins tone and texture.

When the dead and damaged skin cells are removed the outer layer of new skin becomes visible and feels softer, smoother and reflects light easier, making fine lines less visible. Age spots are also less noticeable as the dead skin cells containing the pigment have been removed. Exfoliation removes plugged pores, prevents pores from replugging and allows the release of natural oils making the skin look tighter, healthier and more youthful!

Men need to exfoliate too!
Men grow more facial hair, have larger pores and produce more sweat causing a higher amount of oil, dirt and grime to be trapped.

All areas of the body will benefit from exfoliation. The trick is to find the right product for your skin type.

The ingredients you want in a scrub will depend on your skin type. Exfoliating scrubs work by sloughing off the top layer of dead skin to reveal fresh cells underneath, the thickness and sensitivity of your skin will determine what type of scrub you choose.

Oilier complexions have larger sebaceous glands making the skin thicker and better able to tolerate a more abrasive scrub such as those that contain apricot seeds or crushed walnut shells. For more sensitive skin you should stick to scrubs that have fine granules such as brown or white sugar or salt. Be warned though – using salt scrubs may irritate broken or cut skin!

There are two types of body scrubs on the market and every person has their own preference.

You have the oil scrubs that are usually half oil and half sugar (or salt) mixed with extracts and/or fragrance/essential oils. This type of scrub will separate with the oil floating on top. To use you must stir the oil back down into the product before scooping out the desired amount. While this type of scrub is useful it can be quite messy to use not to mention they will sometimes leak if the container happens to be knocked over and not noticed until its too late!

Emulsified scrubs are thick, rich and more creamlike in consistency. Most often they will contain some type of emulsion system (ewax nf, vegetable stearic) that will hold the product together suspending the sugar/salt to make scooping and using a breeze! Emulsified scrubs will hold together unless subjected to extreme heat. If you live in a hot climate just stir the scrub and either place in the refrigerator or cool area.

For best results you can exfoliate once or twice a week. If skin irritation occurs you will need to reevaluate the frequency and or product and perhaps find one that is better suited to your skin type.

Keeping Your Skin Young

There are simple steps you can do to help your skin retain its supple youthfulness.

Nutrition – Eating a balanced diet that includes the recommended daily vitamins, minerals and nutrients will promote good skin. Fruits and vegetables are high on this list

Regular Exercise – Promotes circulation which carries the nutrients to the skin and helps remove waste and toxins

Apply a Moisturizer – Morning and night to help your skin stay hydrated

Don’t Smoke – Smoking makes the skin lose tone, luster and encourages wrinkles

Avoid Sun Exposure – Use a broad spectrum sunscreen, every day, all year round

A Good Night Sleep – Will benefit not only your body but your mind as well