Get Rid of Dead Skin Cells with Proper Exfoliation
Cell turnover slows down as we age, allowing dead skin cells to linger on the surface. In turn, this gives a dull complexion. But with regular exfoliation on your face and body, you can get rid of this dead top layer. This should allow moisturizers and serums to better penetrate your skin and strengthen a healthy foundation. Lotions and creams have to be absorbed for them to be deemed effective. Below are some cheap and easy ways to exfoliate your skin at home using natural tools and ingredients.
- For facial exfoliation, soak a washcloth in whole milk and drape it over your face. The lactic acid found in milk will help exfoliate the skin while the milk fat will keep the skin moisturized. After five minutes, rinse out the washcloth and remove any remaining milk on your face using the cloth.
- For your face and body, try a mixture of ½ cup white sugar, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 tablespoon salt, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Use the solution as a face or body scrub. This is great for dry skin as the oil helps the skin retain moisture while the skin is being exfoliated. Olive oil is safe for use on the whole body and will not clog pores.
- Try an oatmeal scrub by blending a cup of oatmeal with a sprinkle of dried lavender and blossoms. You can also combine oatmeal half and half with corn meal in a blender, adding a sprinkle of sunflower seeds or raw almonds with your choice of essential oils. Add a few teaspoons of water to a handful of the oatmeal dry mix and use it as a facial scrub.
- For tougher skin areas, like on the elbows and knees, try a loofah. Made from the dried insides of a gourd, it is about as natural as you can get for exfoliating. Use it to scrub your whole body with warm water and mild soap. For hard to reach spots, like the middle of your back, buy a loofah with a wooden handle.
- For calloused feet and heels, use a pumice stone while in the bath or shower. This is a foamy stock naturally produced by volcanoes, usually coming in a cream or light gray color. They are available in the health and beauty aisle of most department stores. Use it on wet and soapy rough skin.
If you are using sugar and oatmeal scrubs, make sure that you gently rub your skin, especially on the face, as vigorous scrubbing will irritate the areas of sensitive skin. To get rid of lip lines, consider getting a thorough facial exfoliation treatment. For more extensive exfoliation treatments, you can use laser skin care treatments or pharmaceutical grade anti-aging skin care products under the supervision of a licensed skin care physician in Harrisburg PA. As we age, exfoliation is very important in maintaining a youthful healthy glow.
