How to get baby-soft skin (a lesson in exfoliating)

Like the circle of (skin) life, cells die naturally. It’s part of that regenerating process that goes on from top to toe. Alas, if we don’t remove the dead skin cells, they can cause causing ingrown hairs, clogged pores, and acne. Good news, exfoliators are the skincare superheroes, saving arms, legs, the whole darn body by removing the surface layer of our skin, and speeding up the natural shed cycle. From facial peels, to full body scrub-downs, exfoliation is a one way ticket to the skin of your younger years (real young, newborn baby, in fact): here’s how it’s done.

By Rachel Spedding

• 1 Should we all be exfoliating?

  People of the world: yes. No matter what your skin type is, it’s important to rid those dead skin cells sitting on your face and body. With regular exfoliation, comes healthy skin (it’ll also help to reduce discolouration, fine lines and wrinkles, if you’re set on doing so). Our skin is battling all sorts of climes – from the outdoors, to tube journeys, and even air conditioning, so it's vital maintain its healthy condition.
• 2 How many times should I do it?

  This one's hugely debated by dermatologists. For the face, I’d suggest one-two times a week (unless it’s a chemical exfoliant – you can do that daily). The skin on your body is not quite as delicate: if you’re scrubbing at home, do so in the shower (with a loofah, or a special scrub mitt), around 2-3 times per week. Once you’re out the shower, lather yourself in lotion, or coconut oil (like the Bahamas in your bedroom).
• 3 Do I go chemical or manual?

  Nope, not car-related; these are two types of exfoliation. Mechanical involves removing skin through physical friction, like with a cleansing glove and granulated scrub (like that mango one from The Body Shop you're forever loyal to). This works well on the outer surface of the skin to shed 'loose’ cells. Chemical exfoliators, on the other hand, get real deep and break the bonds between the skin, and dead cells. Chemical exfoliants, like AHAs and BHAs are found in cleansers, wash-off peels, serums and even moisturisers, so you can easily slide it into your routine. Like dessert after dinner, simple.
• 4 How’s it done?

  It’s a good idea to scrub in the morning, as your skin renews overnight (it’s also why you should always remove your makeup pre-snoozing). Though applying pressure with rough strokes may feel like you’re really cleaning your skin, too much aggression can be damaging. Softly does it, folks. If you’re scrubbing in the shower, lower the temperature of your water to keep your skin calm.  
• 5 So can a salon do the body scrubbing?

  They sure can. For a full exfoliation there’s a beautician out there who will do a better job than you (no shade, just qualifications, you know). For the body, you’ll be asked to lie down on a massage table while the therapist gets to work at cleansing your skin – you’ll be exfoliated and kneaded (bonus massage), before the exfoliant is removed and your body is dried with a warm towel. Save your shower floor from a slippery scrub coating and slide to the salon instead. Soft skin and thirty minutes chill-time awaits.

  With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.