By BR Tabatha
With the arrival of L'Oréal's fabulous (and now Top Rated!) Sugar Scrubs we've been all abuzz about all things exfoliation! We've wondered why the heck we've never exfoliated our faces with sugar before. We've come to the firm conclusion that sugar scrubs for the face feel really quite delightful. And, we're even more excited for winter than we were, because we can't wait to spread the L'Oréal Sugar Scrub over our faces and enjoy its warming sensation on a chilly evening or frosty morning - yes, we're simple folk, but we know pleasure when we feel/see it.
Other than the sensory aspect though, why should we be exfoliating? What are the benefits to our skin? Read on!
It helps you get your glow on! Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, paving the way for fresh skin cells, which contribute to more evenly toned, glowing skin! Another reason we've become firm fans of sugar scrubs is because they give even more glow power, because sugar helps skin retain moisture - making it a good option for those with dry skin who are afraid exfoliating will dry their skin out further.
Say hello to a more youthful-looking you! Ageing is awesome. We're big believers of that at BRHQ. Those who are in the 35+ category wax on about how the older they get the happier and more contented they are - and how while they enjoyed their younger years, they wouldn't want to go back there. One thing they also agree on? Despite loving their stage in life, they still want to age gracefully. No wonder they've a devotion to exfoliation. As you age the renewal of skin cells begins to slow down. Also, those old cells can cause your skin to look dull, while emphasising fine lines. Removing old cells through exfoliation encourages new cells to spring forth, all the while revealing fresher, skin that's not dragged down by dullness.
Say bye to break-outs! At the very least you'll say bye to the ones that you can help - because let's be honest, all the skincare and taking care of your skin in the world won't stop a hormonal breakout! BUT, exfoliating removes the dead skin cells that can clog follicles, which can then lead to pimples. Taking the time to exfoliate can reduce clogging, therefore reducing the formation of whiteheads or blackheads.
It's a skincare primer! I like to think of skincare and its application as being a bit like painting. You need to prime your surface well before going in with the top coat. In this case exfoliation is a big part of the priming process. It sloughs away the dead and dry skin cells, so when you apply your serums, oils and/or moisturiser the surface of your skin is better able to receive the goodness they're imparting.
Your makeup wants you to do it! It's not only your skin that benefits from exfoliation, your overall makeup look will too! Foundation loves a smooth surface, so keeping your skin in tip-top condition is a must if you're wanting your base to look flawless, and exfoliation is a must-do method if you're wanting to achieve this.
Of course, exfoliation – like everything in life - can be too much of a good thing, SO... If you're new to exfoliating, start slowly. Once a week is good. And always read the label, as some exfoliators should only be used once a week. Others, like the L'Oréal Sugar Scrub range, can be used more often. But even then pay attention to how your skin reacts - the last thing you want is to cause your skin to go into oil-creating overdrive and you end up breaking out. And, as always do a patch test first.
I hardly ever exfoliate as I have broken capillaries on my cheeks so I am a bit hesitant to make them worse. I'm on the looo out for a very gentle one as the benefits are worth it.