Summer is almost here! And This Is How to Exfoliate Your Body
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Sloughing away at dead skin is immensely satisfying. Our bodies can quickly become dry and scaly when the weather is cooler and we're bundled up under layers of denim and knits. Now summer is here, below is the secret to smoother, more glowing skin from head to toe.
Exfoliate Little and Often
If your skin is particularly dry the key to effective body exfoliation is to start with a daily scrub. On normal, oily, and hardier skin types you can exfoliate dry skin for a seriously good result. If your skin is sensitive then be sure to exfoliate damp skin which is a little kinder and go easy. By exfoliating daily for a minute or so you'll soon reach a point where your skin is super smooth and supple, without irritating the skin (which would happen if you really went for it in one sitting).
The Tools for the Job
Now you need to decide whether you want to use a tool or a scrub for the job. Dry brushing is great for quickly sloughing the skin before jumping in the shower. If you use upward motions on dry skin, you'll also be getting the double whammy of a good lymph drainage boost which will help to prevent stubborn water retention and, in time, can reduce the appearance of cellulite thanks to its circulation-boosting effectiveness.
Unlike body scrubs, a brush won't add any product to the skin like oils which could interfere with your tan developing.
A Caffeine Hit
Alternatively, you can keep a coffee scrub in the shower. Here at The Beauty Editor we love Frank Body scrubs which combine coffee granules with skin-loving oils that leave your skin super smooth, soft, and hydrated. It's no coincidence that you often see caffeine in cellulite creams, that's because it boosts blood flow and helps reduce the appearance of cellulite. If cellulite bothers you, be sure to massage this into any areas of concern.
Frank Body Peppermint Scrub, €16.95
The addition of peppermint invigorates, while the antioxidants from the caffeine protect the skin from ageing free radicals caused by environmental aggressors like pollution. Ideal for city-dwellers.
Ren Moroccan Rose Sugar Body Polish, €43
Great for sensitive skins, this is packed with sugar that gently and effectively buffs away at skin. The cocktail of skin-nourishing oils leaves you glowing, this is a real treat to use.
Ren AHA Smart Renewal Body Serum, €39
Want to save precious time in the mornings? This doubles as an exfoliator and moisturiser. It's packed with lactic acid (AHA) to gently exfoliate and support the skin's natural renewal process to banish bumps, dry skin and pigmentation, while the addition of shea butter leaves skin nourished and hydrated. Smart!
The Body-Exfoliating Technique
Regardless of what type of body exfoliator you choose, be sure to use upward circular strokes (for that lymphatic drainage, folks!) and pay particular attention to notoriously dry areas like heels, knees, and elbows. Follow these tips and you'll silky smooth skin in no time.
