THE SOAP BOX BLOG
Love the skin you’re in!
Your skin; it’s resilient, responsive and regenerative. Yes, yours!
As your body’s largest organ, your skin is your first defense against germs, infections and the environment at large. Weather, time, good health and bad…you name it, your skin is on duty 24/7. It constantly fights against the elements and in the process, will sluff off and rejuvenate surface cells about every 27 days (1). This renewing process goes on with or without our help. But what if there was a simple little something we could do to work with our skin towards better overall health?
For the answer to this question, I sought out the knowledge and advice of licensed Esthetician, Mallory Deitrick of Rocky Mountain Day Spa here in Steamboat Springs.
According to Ms. Deitrick, the answer is to “Exfoliate!” It seems the simple action of a slightly aggressive rub down in the shower on a regular basis is all it takes. Deitrick explained that our body’s skin requires a somewhat “more aggressive routine than facial skin”, but that both would benefit greatly from regular exfoliation. “The purpose of exfoliation is to remove dead skin cells, encourage cell turnover and increase and stimulate circulation”, she explained. “Exfoliating every few days aids in the elimination of toxins as well.”
In support of her advice and according to the American Academy of Dermatology, exfoliation can leave your skin looking brighter and improve the effectiveness of topical skin care products by enhancing absorption. Regular exfoliation can also help prevent clogged pores, resulting in fewer breakouts (2).
Benefits, benefits, benefits! And let’s face it, it feels fantastic! So, we’d better add ‘mood booster’ on to that benefits list as well.
But is there a particular way to exfoliate? Mallory suggests using a sisal bath mitt or washcloth. “Using your favorite body wash or MSF bar soap work up a nice lather and begin massaging starting at your toes and the bottom of your feet, then continue up to your chest.” She reminds us to avoid our neck and face “as aggressive natural fibers such as sisal are too abrasive for facial skin.”
When asked if there is a routine we should follow, Ms. Deitrick said it all depends on our skin type. “Oily skin can be exfoliated 5-7 times a week, while normal skin would do well 3-5 times per week. Sensitive skin would respond well to a less aggressive routine of 1-3 times per week depending on how delicate your skin is.” She urges the use of your favorite sunscreen because exfoliation “does make all skin types more sensitive to sun exposure.”
It’s that easy to renew and refresh your skin. So, go ahead, throw out your old cloth washcloth, opt for an exfoliating sisal bath mitt, and enjoy all the many benefits to be had with regular exfoliation.
What’s my opinion? Regular exfoliation is like a cup of coffee for my skin, it’s so invigorating…you won’t be able to do with out!
The best to you always, Joanne
Do you have more questions for Mallory Deitrick? You can reach her at the Rocky Mountain Day Spa in Steamboat Springs. 970-871-6111 https://www.steamboatmassage.com
