Exfoliating forms an integral part of every skincare routine. This essential step helps scuff off dead skin cells and promotes blood circulation to bring a healthy glow. But you already know that. However, what you don’t know is that exfoliation isn’t limited to your face or lips. Your body needs it too.
Your scalp, body, legs and feet also need to be exfoliated on a regular basis. However, each part of your body needs to be exfoliated in a different manner, since some areas are more sensitive than the others. Don’t know where to begin? Here’s a guide to help you exfoliate every part of your body the right way. Take a look…
Scalp
When it comes to exfoliation, we bet you don’t consider the scalp. Even if you have a dry, flaky scalp and think scrubbing will make it worse, it won’t. In fact, it will help get rid of dandruff, flakes, product residue, itchiness and more. This will also improve blood circulation in the scalp and promote hair growth. When your scalp is clear, you will notice better and healthier hair growth. You can use Epsom salt as a DIY scrub. Mix it with some olive oil and gently massage using your fingertips.
Face
Every skin type benefits from exfoliation - be oily, dry or sensitive. However, choose the texture and formula carefully. For dry skin, opt for a cream-based scrub, a gel one for oily skin and a gentle scrub without microbeads for sensitive skin. Exfoliating your face twice every week with the St. Ives Energizing Coconut & Coffee Scrub will help get rid of clogged pores, excess oil and dead skin cells to reveal a healthy glow underneath.
Lips
If you often find yourself struggling with dry, flaky lips or patchy lipstick, then your lips definitely need a little scrubbing. Exfoliating your lips once a week will encourage blood flow to the area and enhance the natural colour of your lips. You need to be extra careful while exfoliating your delicate lips though; use natural ingredients like sugar and oil that not only exfoliate but also moisturise the lips.
Body
Do you want to improve the texture of the skin on your body? Exfoliation is the easiest and quickest way to do so. Your body sheds dead skin cells faster compared to other delicate areas, and using soap or body wash is not going to cut it. Invest in a body scrub or make one at home using ground coffee; focus on your elbows and knees as they tend to get drier.
Feet
Your feet take you places and bear the maximum brunt, but hardly ever receive any TLC. Not getting rid of dead skin cells on your feet can invite infections, calluses and other skin problems. If you don’t have the time for a pedicure session, prepare a DIY foot scrub at home using Epsom salt and coconut oil; using a pumice stone, slough off dead skin. You will need to apply a little extra pressure since the skin on the feet is quite thick.
Written by Sanya Hamdani on Mar 19, 2020
Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.