There used to be a time when a mere bar of soap goes a long way in washing the body and face.
And while that is still the case for some, the wide array of choices available in the market just made the whole skincare ordeal a lot more complicated.
Indeed, most consumers are just getting plain confused.
From cleansers, to moisturizers, to exfoliants...how would you know exactly why and when you need them?
While cleansers are naturally part of everyone's bath essentials, for the most part, moisturizers and exfoliants tend to just stay in the background.
What’s even worse is that some people think it's a matter of what they need more. If their skin is dry, then surely, moisturizer is what they need. But if it's a tad too oily, without a doubt, exfoliants will end up in their shopping carts.
But is it really a matter of which one you need more?
Well, the answer is a resounding no.
You need to include both products in your skincare essentials. But just like any other cosmetic wonder, there are proper ways to use these products to fully enjoy the benefits they bring.
When and Why You Need to Exfoliate
The promise of smooth, silky skin is only achievable if you learn to appreciate the importance of regular exfoliation.
It's not exactly rocket science.
Regular exfoliation helps bid goodbye to the old layer of the skin and say hello to the newer, fresher, and healthier layer.
Moreover, it helps keep pores cleaner and even causes blood circulation to improve.
Exfoliation is especially beneficial to people with blemished and post breakout skin as it helps get rid of bacteria to prevent further damage and lightens up dark acne marks through removal of damaged skin cells.
Problems concerning dry skin, clogged pores, and ingrown hairs resulting from shaving are also solved through the process of dry skin removal.
Most exfoliants come with abrasive scrubbing beads or chemicals that help dissolve and remove dead skin cells with minimal effort.
Meanwhile, natural exfoliants are often made using organic wonders such as honey which is packed with antibacterial properties and antioxidants or sugar mixed with various oils.
Keep in mind that the skin's process of natural exfoliation becomes slower as we age so it's best to start as early as now and make this part of your skincare regimen.
Check out our natural handmade soap to combat your dead skin cells.
When and why you need to moisturize.
Part of being intentional in taking care of your skin is to know exactly what daily care it needs.
The body produces natural oils released through the skin which gives it the smooth and healthy look. But glowing, supple skin cannot be attributed to mere bodily oils alone.
We could bet that everyone knows how much they need to moisturize their skin, but still, not everyone does it regularly.
The adverse effect of lack of moisture in the skin is exhibited in the presence of dry, dull and flaky skin. Worse than this is the development of deeper wrinkles, breakouts and even skin irritation.
Moisturizing products help hold water in your skin. They also help protect highly sensitive skin, improve skin texture and tone and even diminish the appearance of skin blemishes and imperfections.
For the body, lotions and sunscreen can help protect you from the humid and sunny weather that instantly takes away the natural moisture of the skin.
While a number of face creams customized to fit specific consumer needs are also widely available in the market.
Indeed, the biggest skincare mistake one can do is ignore the value of regular moisturizing.
Before long, neglected skin will start to flake and eventually lead prominence of wrinkles.
When to do one or the other?
Exfoliation and moisturization goes hand in hand.
When you exfoliate and remove the old layer of the skin, next step is to immediately nourish it by applying a generous amount of moisturizer to your face and body.
Do it regularly but in moderation.
As there are no new dead skin cells every day, exfoliation is best done once a week. Despite the proven benefits of this cleansing procedure, over-exfoliation results to red, irritated and tender skin.
Skin regeneration happens every fourteen (14) days while for adults, skin regenerates every 30-40 days so the frequency of exfoliation can be based on such skin cycle.
But just in case you’ve gone overboard, try using gentle cleanser for days to give your skin a break.
Unlike exfoliants, moisturizers should be an everyday need. The key is to never skip applying your moisturizer to maintain hydrated skin.
Find the product that works for you.
However, it's still important to acknowledge that not all products can be good for your skin. Most commercial products are either too chemically infused or too ineffective.
A recommended solution to this dilemma is the use of handmade natural products which are safe and gentler to the skin. This is a very good option especially for people with sensitive skin.
The product you choose should also be dependent on the type of skin that you have. You may either have normal, oily, dry, or mature skin to name a few.
Always be willing to experiment but never to the point that you will sacrifice your safety.
Know when to seek medical help.
Regular cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing should be enough to protect your skin from the everyday wear and tear.
However, if none of these things work for you and you happen to realize that your skin condition doesn’t improve, it might be time to go see your doctor and ask for expert opinion.
We hope that with our help, you were able to further appreciate the value of proper skincare.
Remember to exfoliate and moisturize regularly because there’s no better time to start than now.