How to Exfoliate Skin Like a Pro

Exfoliating is an integral part of taking care of your skin. Techniques might vary but the purpose of exfoliation is twofold; first it rids the skin's surface of any dirt or oil residue and rubs off the uppermost layer of dead skin cells. Second, it prepares the skin for subsequent treatments. Removal of the layer of dead cells enables the skin to more effectively absorb or react to products utilized in treatments that follow the exfoliation. 

I have been an Aesthetician for 15 years and these tips are tried and true. Specially if you are using self tanning treatments, suffer from dry skin during winter months and have itchy irritated skin.

• It cleanses and exfoliates the outer layers of the skin by removing dirt and dead cells.
• It helps stimulate and circulate lymph fluids which aid in the elimination of toxins.
• It serves as a stimulating massage and improves blood circulation.
• It affects the secretion and production of the body's natural oils.
• The entire body should be scrubbed on a daily basis, even if only for 5 minutes.
• First-time scrubbers should be gentle on the skin at the beginning: do not abrade or irritate it. Gradually the skin will develop "resistance" to the scrubbing and more vigorous pressure can be applied.
• Make sure you have the appropriate body-scrubbing tools (remember-it's body scrubbing, not face scrubbing!): sisal mitt, towel, loofah, abrasive sponge or stiff brush.
• The scrubber should be used in a circular motion, starting with the feet, ankles and legs, then working on the hands, arms and shoulders, gradually working your way down the back, then up through the torso towards the heart.
• Make sure you thoroughly wash your scrubbing tools with soap and water and hang them up to dry after each use – they can develop bacteria very quickly if not properly cleaned and dried after each use.
• A cool-water rinse after a body scrub will further activate blood circulation throughout the body. Pat dry and moisturize.
• As this treatment is revitalizing and energizing, it is best practiced in the morning.