Exfoliation: The low down!

When, Why and How? We all know we should do it, and we’ve spent hundreds of rands on scrubs and products to get rid of dead skin. But do we really know why we exfoliate?

The truth is, a regular routine of exfoliation, including Spa visits for a good rub down, are essential for smooth, beautiful skin. Plus, there are many benefits of exfoliation that help your skin stay healthy–very important for your body’s largest organ.

Go Skin Deep Exfoliation refers to products or treatments that are applied to the face, whereas scrubs are used on the entire body. But the terms are similar, and whether we are exfoliating or scrubbing, we’re doing more than just clearing out dead skin. The body naturally sheds skin on a regular cycle, but as we age that shedding slows down.

Cell turnover in healthy skin occurs, on average, like this:

• In your 20s: 14-25 days
• In your 30s: 30 days
• In your 40s: 40 days

So, a rule of exfoliation, timed to one’s age, is a great way to keep skin vibrant, soft and supple. Check out the many benefits of exfoliation:

• Removes oil that can plug pores and protects your complexion from blackheads, whiteheads and acne.
• Fades age spots by removing superficial skin cells that contain pigment
• Shrinks pores and can minimize scars
• Makes wrinkles less visible because the new layer of skin can reflect light better
• Helps your skin absorb moisturizers and lotions better

What type of exfoliation should you choose?

PHYSICAL

You probably know about physical exfoliation. It’s what you do when you really don’t want to get out of the shower. These scrubs are made from seeds, fruits, oatmeal, coffee and crushed nuts or shells and are physically abrasive to enable the dead skins cells to rub off.

CHEMICAL

The three common types of chemical exfoliation can be gentler on your skin than a physical scrub. However, it depends on the type of skin you have and the strength of a peel. That’s why a professional skin analysis done by a Spa Therapist is a vital first step in your skincare. Know Your Peels:

• Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) is a light chemical peel derived from natural sources like fruit or sugar and is a good choice for oily or sensitive skin.
• Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) is a synthetic light peel also known as salicylic acid. It is often recommended for acne-prone complexions.
• Enzymes are also natural and used for sensitive skin. Enzymes work at a slower pace than acid-based peels and are therefore gentler.

Apply sunscreen!

That beautiful new skin exposed by the exfoliation and scrubbing needs added protection from the sun. It is vital to ensure that you apply a good quality sunscreen regularly, especially after a spa or at home treatment involving scrubbing and exfoliation.

Enhance your Sparkle!

Legacy Balance’s gift to you this holiday season! Now that we’ve covered the exfoliation basics, here is a little something extra from the Legacy Balance Team Visit any of our Spas this December and get a complimentary 30-minute full-body exfoliation with any massage Therapy booked!

Tenderised muscles and glowing skin; guaranteed!