How to Exfoliate Safely

Whether you have oily, combination or normal skin, exfoliating is the most important thing you can do to keep it healthy and radiant. 

You know that RMUK believes in the power of glowing skin to make you feel your most confident self, and that’s why we’ve created this simple guide on how to achieve it safely. 

Why Should You Exfoliate

Exfoliating is a central element of your skin care routine that shouldn’t be missed. 

The most important thing you can do for your skin 

You should exfoliate all over your body because it: 

• Buffs the surface of the skin to remove dead skin cells, allowing new cells to surface 
• Agitates pores for deep cleansing and removal of dirt to minimise the appearance of acne 
• Reduces signs of ageing by breaking bonds of dead cells 
• Helps skin absorb moisturiser easier 
• Leaves skin fresh and glowing
  

How To Exfoliate Safely

Use clean equipment

Whether you’re using an exfoliating mitt, brush or pad, you need to make sure it’s clean before using it to cleanse your face. 

To clean exfoliators, rinse with warm or hot water then wash in a machine once or twice a week to remove bacteria and any lingering skin cells. 

Start with a cleanser

Make sure your skin is clean otherwise you could rub dirt into your pores. If you apply cleanser with your fingers, wash them with warm water and soap before touching your skin. 

Use the right exfoliation method for your skin type

There are two types of exfoliation:

Manual exfoliation: removes skin cells physically by buffing the skin using something abrasive such as scrubs, exfoliation gloves or pumice stones. Some experts believe that manual exfoliation is ideal for combination skin that isn’t acne-prone.

Chemical exfoliation: involves dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells to healthy ones. Chemical exfoliation is better for sensitive skin than manual exfoliation because it doesn’t involve physical scrubbing but it is suitable for most skin types.

Be gentle

Exfoliating gently in small circular motions using a clean exfoliating brush, pad or glove is the key to unlocking healthy skin. Being too rough on your skin leads to redness and irritation. 

Use warm water

Hot water can irritate your skin and open up your pores. Rinse your skin after exfoliation using warm or lukewarm water for the healthiest result. 

Avoid over exfoliating

You shouldn’t exfoliate more than twice a week, especially if you have sensitive skin, as it may become agitated and blotchy. 

If you do, don’t worry, this shouldn’t cause long term damage. Simply leave exfoliation out of your routine for a week or two whilst continuing to use cleanser and moisturiser, and this should even out your skin tone again.

Moisturise

The process of buffing your skin can leave it dry, so moisturising is an essential step to ensuring your skin remains in good shape. Gently pat a sparing amount onto your skin using your fingertips and let it sink in naturally. 

When to skip exfoliation

If you have cystic or chronic acne, exfoliation will only inflame your skin further and can cause permanent damage to your skin’s surface. Use a gentle cleanser that you can smooth on with your fingertips instead of a scrub or exfoliator. 

You should likewise avoid exfoliation if you’re sunburnt, have an infection or have an open wound. 

Exfoliate At A Salon

Seeking a professional facial will leave you with all the benefits of exfoliation and add a consultation to determine the best exfoliation method for your skin, a bespoke facial experience, and access to skilled beauty therapists. 

RMUK have a broad range of Aveda Spa and Guinot facials that leave your skin feeling radiant as well as facial peels and skin resurfacing treatments that exfoliate without causing redness or irritation.

You too can have the ultimate salon finish by booking an appointment with RMUK in Leeds city centre today.

0113 243 6842      |      info@rm-uk.com      |     57 Great George St, Leeds, LS1 3BB