Gargi Bansod gives you a lowdown on how and when you should use exfoliants
Every 28 days, our skin sheds dead cells and dry matter. But, when we are stressed out or as we age, this process slows down. Exfoliants such as cleansing grains, scrubs, pumice stones and loofahs help remove debris, dead cells and dry skin from your face and body to reveal younger and fresher skin cells below. However, using the right amount of exfoliant and the number of times you exfoliate is crucial as too much too often can harm your skin.
Choosing an exfoliant
Choosing an exfoliant is very important as every body part requires a different type. If you want to exfoliate your face and neck, then select one with fine grains. If you want to exfoliate your feet, use sugar or sea salt scrubs, which are coarse. Make sure to try the product on the back of your hand as the v-section of skin between your thumb and pointer fingers is sensitive and a good place for this trial. If it irritates your skin, then avoid using it on your face.
When to exfoliate
How many times you exfoliate depends on a number of factors such as what you exfoliate with, your skin type and your general skin health. Ideally, you should not use an exfoliant daily. Your skin needs time to rebuild its topmost layer, which exfoliation strips away. If you have dry skin, exfoliate once or twice a week. If you have oily skin, you can exfoliate two to four times a week. Stop using an exfoliant if you find your skin getting irritated or if you develop a rash. When you exfoliate, less is more. Use only a small amount of exfoliant and take the time to really clean your skin. After exfoliating, always apply a layer of moisturiser to soothe your skin and keep it hydrated.
Exfoliating too often
Most of us expose our skin to too much exfoliation by using cleansers and scrubs. If you exfoliate too often, more and more layers of your skin are removed, making it very sensitive, accelerating skin ageing and showing signs like dehydrated skin, patchy areas of dryness, redness, itchiness, increased sensitivity, inflammatory acne and irritation.
Exfoliation for men
Men can benefit more from exfoliating than women as they have thicker skin. Exfoliation exposes the face's hair follicles, allowing for a better shave. They should exfoliate about three times a week before shaving, or use an exfoliating mask once a week for good skin.
BOX
How to use exfoliants
lNever use two methods of exfoliation at the same time. For example, do not use a mechanical scrub and then follow with a chemical peel.
lNever exfoliate sunburned skin.
lIf you have serious skin issues such as acne, eczema or delicate skin, consult your dermatologist before starting any exfoliating regime.
EXPERT SPEAK
“Home made exfoliants such as husk or gram flour mixed with lemon or orange rind, sandalwood, turmeric and honey or cream can give excellent results but patch testing is important.”
— Dr. Parag Telang,
Surgicare Hospitals