40,000: the amount of dead skin cells shed every minute. Thats right, in the time it took you to open up this blog and read the first sentence the surface of your skin waved bye to 40,000 of your dead skin cells. Only it’s not as straight forward as that- sometimes dead cells don’t shed completely and can build up on your skins surface causing dry, flaky patches, dullness, irritation, and clogged pores, yikes! But don’t worry, this is where exfoliation comes in.
First up- what is exfoliating?
Exfoliating is the process of sloughing off dead skin cells from your epidermis using a granular substance, exfoliation tool, or chemical.
Okay, but how exactly will it benefit my skin?
Brighten
By removing the build up of dead skin cells exfoliation promotes skin cell turnover and reveals new, healthy skin cells beneath, leaving skin looking and feeling healthy, fresh, and glowing. But that’s not all, exfoliation all stimulates circulation to the skin boosting the delivery of oxygen rich blood to feed and nourish the skins surface.
Help product absorption
Once that pesky layer of dead skin cells has been removed your skincare products are able to penetrate your skin more deeply, meaning your favourite moisturisers and serums can get to work more effectively!
Unclog pores
The removal of dead skin cells can also prevent clogged pores! By sloughing away dead and dry skin along with any other surface debris your cleanser might have missed, your exfoliator stops them from finding their way into your pores. This can then lead to fewer breakouts, whiteheads, and blackheads.
Increase Collagen
Regular exfoliation can also stimulate collagen production! Collagen is a protein that promotes skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and is often cited as the key to glowing, vibrant skin!
How should I exfoliate?
Face
Opt for an exfoliant that combines gentle manual exfoliation with naturally exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid and leaves out harsh ingredients that can cause micro-tears and irritate skin (hello walnut shells!). Our Coffee, Wild Raspberry, and Brown Sugar Exfoliator is suitable for all skin types and fits the bill to a T!
Body
Time to embrace the benefits of dry brushing! Read all about its benefits and how- to here, before getting your hands on your very own Kokoa Body Brush!
*Remember!*
Limit your exfoliation routine to 1-2 times a week—over-exfoliating can leave your skin dry, irritated, and damaged. Take good care of your skin and put your best face forward.