HOW-TO EXFOLIATE YOUR BODY FOR SMOOTH, RADIANT SKIN

“We're always on the lookout for ways to achieve smoother, radiant skin, and exfoliators can be a great place to start. But with so many products, techniques and ingredients out there, what really is the best way to exfoliate your body?”

WHY SHOULD I EXFOLIATE MY BODY?

The same way the skin on our face can look dull and lack lustre without regular exfoliation, the skin on our bodies can also suffer. As we grow older, cell renewal can begin to slow, leaving older, duller cells hanging around our skin for longer. This can lead to skin looking dry and flaky, or just simply not having the same radiance it used to. Without regular exfoliation, you may begin to notice areas such as your shins, elbows and arms looking and feeling dry.

If you suffer from Keratosis Pilaris- more commonly referred to as 'chicken skin' (think those little bumps often found on the backs of arms), regular exfoliation can be really beneficial for helping to smooth the skin and reduce their appearance. It's also a great way to prevent ingrown hairs and help to even the skin tone.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT WAYS TO EXFOLIATE THE BODY?

There are several easy and effective ways to keep the skin on your body smooth and exfoliated. The first, and easiest way being to use a body scrub regularly. Not only do body scrubs use gently abrasive particles to buff the surface of the skin and slough away old cells, they often contain nourishing oils and skin-friendly ingredients to ensure your body is nourished and hydrated at the same time. The Elemental Herbology Zest Sugar Body Polish is enriched with superfood oils of Hemp Seed, Chia Seed and Sea Buckthorn Oil to strengthen the skin barrier and restore lost moisture, helping to promote skin health. The zesty blend of sweet orange, marjoram and rosemary create an at-home spa experience, uplifting the mind and encouraging feelings of positivity.

Loofahs and body brushing can also be great ways to exfoliate the skin. While loofahs can be used wet in the shower the same way as you would use a sponge, body brushes are best used on dry skin. The firm bristles can take some getting used to, but regular body brushing is a great way to encourage circulation and reduce fluid and water retention in the skin.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO USE A BODY SCRUB?

We recommend using a natural body scrub 1-2 times a week and applying the product directly to dry skin. This way, you will achieve a deeper and more thorough exfoliation. However, if you have very sensitive skin, you can apply your body scrub to wet skin for a gentle exfoliation. Wet or dry, it's best to massage your body scrub into the skin using long, upwards motions towards the heart (same goes for body brushing!) as this will really help to reduce fluid retention and brighten the skin.

For more stubborn areas such as the feet, knees and elbows, use small circular movements to really slough away any rough or dry skin. To finish, thoroughly rinse your body to remove any exfoliants from the skin and follow up with a nourishing body cream or body oil to lock in the moisture and keep the skin smoother for longer.

DO'S AND DONT'S

• DO: Apply for your body scrub to dry skin.

• DON'T: Exfoliate straight after shaving, waxing or epliating. Be sure to wait at least 48 hours.

• DO: Exfoliate 1-2 times a week.

• DON'T: Apply too much pressure, use firm but gentle strokes to work the body scrub into the skin.

• DO: Follow up with a body cream or body oil to lock in moisture.

Shop the Zest Sugar Body Polish here.

We are Elemental Herbology

We are Elemental Herbology, a natural skincare and wellness brand based on the Five Elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine. We are fresh, clean and thrive to create ultimate wellness experiences through unique treatments, innovative products, and our focus on well-being and lifestyle.

Our unique formulations counteract the skin damaging effects of ageing, lifestyle and the environment to give you instant, long-lasting results. We believe in ethical and sustainable skincare and we are committed reducing waste, sourcing responsibly and respecting the world we live in.