How to Know That Your Exfoliator Works

Exfoliating can improve the health of your skin.

Flag this photo

Whether you use a manual or chemical exfoliation system, you know that it is working by the way your skin looks and feels. Manual exfoliation refers to using an abrasive product to remove dead skin cells, while chemical exfoliation dissolves the binding that holds dead skin cells on the surface. Both approaches are different, yet strive for the same goal. Based on your skin type, one might be better than the other. You can determine that your style of exfoliation is working by checking a few basic things.

Related Searches:Difficulty:Moderately EasyInstructions Things You'll NeedMirrorSuggest Edits1

Run the pads of your fingers lightly across your skin. If it feels smooth and soft, then your exfoliator has removed dead skin cells. Any section that feels rough or patchy needs extra attention.

2

Look at your skin in a mirror under a bright light. It should look polished and glowing rather than flaky or dull. A quality exfoliator increases blood circulation, which results in a rosy hue. However, if you observe bright red patches or rashy areas, your exfoliation style may be too harsh for your skin type.

3

Scrape a fingernail gently across the skin that has been thoroughly moisturized. If you are able to collect dead skin under your nail, then you need more frequent or vigorous exfoliation.

Tips & Warnings

Always start out slowly when testing a new exfoliator, particularly on delicate skin like the face. Check that your skin type can handle it without becoming overly inflamed.

If you have particularly sensitive skin, check with a dermatologist before starting an exfoliation regimen.

Suggest item

ReferencesSkin911: Exfoliating SkinPhoto Credit Jupiterimages/liquidlibrary/Getty ImagesRead Next:

Print this articleCommentsFollow eHowFollow

View the Original article

How to Make an Exfoliator for Your Face Using Natural Ingredients

Use a facial steaming device to open facial pores.

Flag this photo

Exfoliating your face can be the difference between having a healthy, glowing complexion and having dull, lackluster skin. Scrubbing your face helps remove dead skin, oil and black heads. If these build up, you may get breakouts, pimples and blemishes. Over-the-counter facial scrubs often contain chemicals such as glycolic and lactic acids, and can be costly. Instead, make your own facial scrub using natural ingredients already present in your home.

Related Searches:Difficulty:Moderately EasyInstructions Things You'll NeedRolled oatsCoffee grinder or food processorBowlWhole milkWaterTowelSuggest Edits1

Grind 1/2 cup of rolled oats in a food processor or coffee grinder until you end up with a fine, grainy, salt-like consistency. Place the oats in a bowl.

2

Moisten the oats with whole milk until you reach a paste-like consistency.

3

Fill the sink with warm water. Bend forward and hold your face over the sink. Cover your head with a towel, so the steam opens your facial pores. As an alternative, take a warm shower or bath, or wet a washcloth with warm water and place it over your face for two minutes.

4

Apply the homemade facial scrub to your face. Use circular massaging motions to scrub your face. Work from your forehead all the way down to your chin. The oats remove dead skin, absorb impurities and soothe your skin, while the milk has a cleansing effect.

5

Leave the facial scrub on your skin for 10 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. Make your final rinse a cool-water rinse to close your pores. Pat your face dry with a towel.

6

Moisturize your face with a facial cream or lotion made for your skin type.

Tips & Warnings

Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the scrub mixture if you have dry skin. As an alternative, use 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.

Suggest item

ReferencesNatural Home Remedies For Life: Oatmeal ScrubPhoto Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty ImagesRead Next:

Print this articleCommentsFollow eHowFollow

View the Original article