The Benefits of Regular Skin Exfoliation

What is Skin Exfoliation?

Did you know that your skin is in a constant state of natural renewal and rejuvenation? New skin cells are continuously replacing old, worn-out ones and a complete turnover and rejuvenation of your skin cells happens approximately every 30 days (this process of rejuvenation takes longer as we age—and babies’ skin renews itself every 2 weeks!).

Although the shedding of dead skin cells is a continuous, natural process, sometimes the skin is not shed completely, resulting in clogged pores and dull, dry or flaky skin. Buildup of dead skin cells can also lead to acne and dark spots or blemished skin.

The purpose of skin exfoliation is to support this natural process and to remove any dead skin cells and debris from the surface of your skin which have not been able to shed themselves completely.

Two Methods of Skin Exfoliation

There are two main methods of skin exfoliation, chemical and mechanical.

Chemical exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells through chemical processes, oftentimes by using entirely natural ingredients like fruit acids derived from citrus fruits, grapes or apples (also known as alpha-hydroxy acids, or AHAs). Wine, because of the natural presence of tartaric acid, was a popular exfoliant of the ancient world and wine scrubs are still popular today.

Mechanical exfoliation removes dead skin cells through gentle mechanical means, either with tools like brushes, loofahs and sponges or by gentle natural scrubs made from earth, pomegranate rinds, cinnamon bark, apricot kernels, oyster shells, salt or other ingredients.

Benefits of Regular Skin Exfoliation

The benefits of regular skin exfoliation include:

• Removal of dead skin cells and debris and unclogging of skin pores. This allows the skin to breathe and helps to prevent breakouts and acne.
• Stimulation of collagen production, which helps to improve skin texture, elasticity, luster and youthfulness. This also increases the rate of cellular turnover.
• Evening out and smoothing of skin tone and texture: light and dark spots, stains, scars and calluses.
• Boosting of blood circulation to nourish the skin & encouraging lymphatic circulation and drainage.

While regular skin exfoliation has many great benefits, dermatologists caution that one should not be overzealous or use artificial chemicals or harsh abrasives as these can lead to redness and sensitivity of the skin. All things in moderation!

Auromère Skin Care Products for Exfoliation

Exfoliating Body Bar – One of our newest skin care products, Auromère Exfoliating Body Bar gets its gentle exfoliating action from the finely ground Apricot kernels and Cinnamon bark included in the formula. Also formulated with Neem and other Ayurvedic herbs for optimal skin care.

Ayurvedic Face Wash – A potent blend of 13 Ayurvedic herbs with red clay and Fuller’s Earth acting as natural exfoliants, this Ayurvedic face wash is also abundantly rich in antioxidants, minerals and micro-nutrients. Use as a naturally exfoliating, daily polish that is gentle on delicate facial skin. Can be followed up with our Ayurvedic Wrinkle Serum for a complete and rejuvenating facial skin care protocol.

Herbomineral Mud Bath & Mask – Featuring 12 Ayurvedic herbs combined with four different  types of clay (Fuller’s Earth, Red Clay, Yellow Clay, and Black Clay), each with its own specific Ayurvedic properties and benefits, this formula can either be used as a gentle exfoliating scrub for daily use or as uniquely effective facial mud mask. (Follow this link to learn more about the Ayurvedic Art of mṛttikā cikitsā, or Mud Therapy)

With all best wishes for your health and wellness from Auromère