After washing, gently pat your skin with a dry towel. Be gentle and do not rub too vigorously, to avoid causing any damage to your skin. You may try standing in front of a fan to dry your body, especially hard to reach areas.
Skin-care professionals do not recommend microdermabrasion without the consultation of a doctor or dermatologist first, as you could damage or irritate your skin. [4] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source These generally consist of an abrasive cream or scrub with a special tool for application. [5] X Research source
After washing your face and gently drying it, carefully apply the chemical exfoliating product. Spread it all over your face, being sure to cover the full surface area. Gently massage the chemical exfoliating agent into your skin. Try delicate circular motions with your fingers. Do not rub too hard, as you do not want to damage your skin inadvertently. Many people exfoliate their neck as well. Some examples of chemical exfoliating agents include a glycolic acid peel or a lactic acid peel. The acidic nature of these peels is part of what makes them so effective. Chemical exfoliation tends to work better than physical exfoliation (in particular for long-term results) because it is able to access deeper layers of the skin. Chemical exfoliation works by breaking chemical bonds, which in turn releases dead skin cells and allows them to shed much more easily. Tareen advises against over-exfoliating, since it can cause irritation and skin problems. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Moisturizing lotions are recommended as part of general skin care. They help to prevent early signs of aging and give your skin an overall healthy glow.
Look for exfoliating body scrubs that are made to work on the rest of your body and not your face.
Sugar and Oil Scrub: Combine equal parts brown sugar and any cooking oil (like olive oil, grapeseed oil, etc. ) for a highly economical, highly effective skin scrub. Rub into the skin to exfoliate, then rinse with soap and water. [12] X Research source Add a tablespoon of honey for extra nutrients if you’d like. [13] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Greek Yogurt and Papaya Enzyme Face Conditioning Mask: Mix 1/2 cup of Greek Yogurt and three tablespoons of mashed up papaya. Apply to face or body, and leave for 15 to 30 minutes. Peel off and rinse face when done. [14] X Research source
You can add some extra virgin olive oil to the water to increase the softening of your calluses. After soaking them, pat your feet dry with a towel.
Alternatives to using a brush include a foot file, or the Ped-Egg product that has been marketed as an effective means of physically exfoliating your feet. You can also try an exfoliation cream designed specifically for your feet. [17] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Be sure to wash the pumice stone after use and to let it air dry before your next use.
Consider make lotion application part of your daily routine — for instance, you might try keeping a bottle of hand lotion at each of your kitchen and bathroom sinks so you can apply after each wash.
For instance, if your stiff-bristled shower brush has been irritating your skin, try switching to a gentle washcloth, which should allow you to exfoliate at a much more manageable pace.
The same principle applies to baths — shorter and cooler is best. You’ll also want to avoid bubble baths and other soap-based soaks (except those known to be “moisturizing”), as these can also strip your skin’s natural oils. Pat (rather than scrub) yourself dry after bathing. The back-and-forth action of a towel can remove natural oils loosened by the warm water and irritate delicate skin.
Stay safe when using a steam room or sauna — never stay in longer than is comfortable, never raise the heat so high that it’s hard for you to breathe or stay awake, and, most importantly, never combine sauna time and alcohol use. [26] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
