3 skin scrubs that'll slough without getting rough

If there's one thing every derm will tell you, it's that exfoliation is key to any skincare routine. There will be different steps around it ("cleanse", "prepare", "treat", "hydrate", "protect", etc) depending on which derm's philosophical approach you're following, but exfoliation always seems to be a part of it.

Red UK (June '08) noted 3 scrubs that slough away dull skin and prep the skin for next steps without over-stripping--which is many times the downside of exfoliating scrubs for those with sensitive skin:

1. Nude Facial Scrub

2. Kiehl's Ultra Moisturizing Buffing Cream with Scrub Particles

3. The Body Shop Honey & Oat 3-in-1 Scrub Mask

But why do we even need to exfoliate? Skin exfoliation occurs naturally each and every day as your skin continues to generate new skin cells at a deeper level (dermis) in the skin. The natural progression is for those cells to rise to the skin's surface (epidermis) and eventually slough off. But as we get older, the process slows. RealSelf.com pro Dr. Graf explained it ike this:

Exfoliation is a natural process that is normally performed by enzymes naturally found in the skin. Unfortunately, as we age our skin loses the hydration needed to activate these exfoliating enzymes. That explains why a five-year-old child doesn’t require exfoliators and moisturizers, but someone in their 30's does.

While these skin cells at the surface also help provide a protective layer for skin, they can also build up and create a dull, uneven appearance. And while that doesn't sound too visually appealing, the build-up of cells can also inhibit effective absorption of skin care treatments or creams.

Admittedly, I'm an exfoliation junkie. Whether it's body exfoliation to leave my skin feeling smooth and prepped for shaving or sunless tanner, or it's mechanical facial exfoliation (think scrubs...scruffy washcloth...) for a weekly boost to my daily alpha-hydroxy routine, I'm big on sloughing it off. How about you?

Have you tried exfoliating with these scrubs? WiWi: Was it Worth it?

posted by skintoxicated / joy celine

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