Summer Body!

2. Exfoliation/ Face and Body.


Exfoliation: The natural physical process of losing dead skin cells from the stratum corneum layer of the epidermis is called desquamation. Exfoliation is a technique used to accelerate this process. It is normally carried out after the skin has been cleansed and toned, and before a mask or other facial treatments. It also facilitates the absorption of products applied post- exfoliation such as serums, and moisturisers. Everyone needs to exfoliate, all ages. People with dry skin especially need to. It will help with cell regeneration. Exfoliating regularly will improve the appearance, radiance and health of your skin.

• Benefits: 
• dead skin cells, grease and debris are removed from the surface of the skin.
• fresh new cells are exposed, improving the appearance of the skin.
• skin preparations such as moisturising lotions are more easily absorbed.
• the blood circulation in the area  is mildly stimulated, bringing more Oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells and improving the skin colour. 

So exfoliation at least once a week is important. You cant expect to get a great tan on your body if your skin is covered in dry patches and dead cells. It is important that you start now to get your skin in good condition so it can absorb those sun cream for the protection you need while sun bathing.

Types of Exfoliants.


Biochemical skin peels: Natural acids (alpha-hydroxy acids-AHAs), derived from fruits, sugar cane and milk and applied as a mask. The acids dissolve the dead cells. Eg: Clarins Gentle Facial Peel. It comes off like your peeling your skin. With all peels i would recommed a patch Test prior to application.

Pore Grains: These are the most popular exfoliants, a base cream or liquid containing tiny spheres or polished plastic or crushed nuts or seeds, massaged in circular motion over the skin surface. EG: St Ives do a range of scrubs made from Apricot seeds and one i have used my self for years. Great for sensitive, dry, combination skin. Just pick the one to suit your skin type.

Clay Exfoliants: Gentler clay exfoliants have a clay base which is applied as a face mask. As it dries the clay absorbs dead skin and sebum. The mask is then gently stroked away with a sponge or cloth. Great for oily problem skin. A good one is Neutragenas  Visibly Clear 2in 1.

Mechanical Exfoliation:  Or Facial brushing, softens and cleanses the skin. Dead cells  and excess sebum is removed as the soft hair bristles rotate over the skin surface.  an eg of Mechanical would be Nutra Sonic. But personally i prefer a manual face brush which is inexpensive and you use it with you own cleanser. Just as effective.

Health and Safety: Too vigorous or over use of exfoliants can cause the formation of broken capillaries, avoid delicate eye area, pustular skin should not exfoliate, uncomfortable, lesions might burst.
NB: Exfoliants for the Body should not be used on the Face, their action is not as gentle.


Now are faces are exfoliated and looking radiant, What about your Body? 
The Body Shop do a fabulous range of Body Scrubs. Their Mango Body is my favourite. It's fruity with real Mango Seed Oil. Leaves skin really soft. Also their Coconut Body Scrub is to die  for, the scent and the softness after. Also all ingredients are natural and Fair Trade.

How to Make your own Body Scrub. 

• You Will Need: Oil, either Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Almond Oil, Baby Oil..
• Bowl,
• Spoon.
• Either Salt or Sugar.

Sugar is gentler than Salt. If you are very sensitive use Brown Sugar. Normal Table Salt is OK. If you want stronger use Sea Sat. Don't use Salt on cuts or abrasions. If stings wash off immediately.
Use 1part oil to 2 parts salt or sugar. Mix in bowel. Now dampen your body and take a hand full and rub all over in circular motions. Have your bath filled. Now care fully step in and relax. Remember oil is slippy so have an anti slip mat in your Bath.  You can use exfoliation mitts while in bath for extra help.When done rinse off.
TIP: Make up enough and fill a jar that will last a couple of weeks.

Spa Treatment at Home: I wash my hair, put on hair Mask or conditioner and wrap in a warm towel ,Wash cleanse face put on Face Mask. Use foot scrub on feet, put cuticle softener on cuticles. Now body scrub. Hop in bath and relax with candles and peace and quiet. Now rinse body face and hair in bath. While wet rub in Baby Oil. Hop out Pat body dry. Wrap up in towels. Dry feet, push back cuticles, File nails, rasp feet and moisturise. Now push back cuticle on fingers(using different pusher) and use cuticle oil on hands and feet. Now Moisturise every were. Do this once a week and you will Glow all Summer long.

Warning: Oil and baths do not mix. Make sure you clean out the Bath after, it can be very slippy for the person coming after you.

Body Shop range of Body Scrubs.

Nutra Sonic Mechanical Face Exfoliant.

St Ives range of Facial Scrubs, Pore Grains.

Clay Exfoliant, Neutrogena 2 in 1.

Mechanical Exfoliation. A facial brush, use with your cleanser.

Salt/ Sugar Scrub. Batch made to keep for a few weeks.

Body Brush, used for exfoliating body. Use with body scrub or alone.




So Get Scrubbing! Check out No3 on our Summer Body List, Hair Removal.