Can an Exfoliating Scrub Help You Fight Aging? Here Are the Facts.

The age-old story of…well, aging. Wait, why are people so worried about this topic? It’s a natural process that affects literally everything. Time passes and wears things down. That’s what aging really is. There are many elements around us that affect this process. However, there are things you can do to slow down the signs of aging.

If your goal is to maintain that healthy glow of youthful skin without going under the knife, there are a few tricks of the trade to help you get there. For instance, exfoliating scrubs are a great place to begin, and sprinkle a few healthy habits into the mix and you’re well on your way to beautiful, younger looking skin. 

Can an Exfoliating Scrub Help You Fight Aging?

In order to understand what chemical exfoliants can do for you, you must first understand the fundamentals of skin. It’s an organ just like your heart, brain, and stomach, the largest, actually. It consists of proteins, fats, and minerals.  It also protects your inner organs from bacteria and regulates your body temperature.

Get to Know Your Skin

Your skin is made up of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis. The epidermis is the outermost and consists of about twenty layers of skin cells. This top layer is exposed to natural elements the most and goes through a shedding process. It regenerates quickly so you have an entirely new epidermis every month. To put it into perspective, your body renews thousands of dead cells every day. That’s millions each month! The epidermis is also home to a special type of cell, the Langerhans. These cells play an important role in fighting off germs and infections. 

The epidermis is also the location where melanin, the pigment that determines the color of your skin, is produced. The more melanin you make, the darker your skin. The reason people produce different amounts is still unknown; however, the amount of melanin you do have does determine how your skin reacts to the sun. 

The middle layer, the dermis, is thicker and more complex. It’s the thickest and made up of fibrous and elastic tissue so not only does it provide strength and flexibility to skin, but it also contains the nerves and blood vessels that actually do the job of this organ. Sebum is a natural oil the dermis of your skin produces and helps keep your skin and hair moisturized. 

Finally, the innermost layer of skin, or the hypodermis mostly consists of fat that attaches to your bones and muscles. This part of your skin acts as a cushion to protect you from bumps and falls and is responsible for regulating body temperature. 

Exfoliating Scrubs WeLove

Exfoliation

Great, now you know your skin is constantly shedding. What you may not be aware of is your dead skin cells are constantly falling off your body. Sometimes the regeneration of skin cells is excessive, and it becomes a problem that leads to dry patches that can clog your pores. These are the routes oils and sweat (toxins) follow to come out. So, it’s important to keep them open in order to avoid sensitive skin problems such as acne. 

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells. You can exfoliate your skin by scrubbing, with acid, or with granular substances like salt and sugar. This technique can sharply change the appearance of your skin because you’ll be showing off that brand new epidermis your body is regenerating. Let’s discuss the collagen production your skin promotes to keep elasticity while preventing sagging which leads to wrinkles. This protein is abundant in children, which is why they have smooth, flawless skin. Unfortunately, its production greatly reduces as you age, so it’s important to stimulate it. 

Exfoliation is particularly important for people with naturally oily skin and those that use a lot of makeup or skin products. Those that fit into this category often get clogged pores. Essentially, exfoliating your skin is a way to keep your body from working too hard on shedding dead skin cells.  While this procedure won’t stop the aging process, it can certainly help you obtain the appearance of youthful, glowing skin.

Types of Exfoliations

Everyone’s skin is different, and everyone responds differently to exfoliation treatments. The epidermis is tasked with the job of shedding dead skin cells, and it’s a bit lazy on some people. So, you might want to consider adding a treatment like exfoliation if you’re experiencing outbreaks or other skin problems like acne. There are many ways you can go about it, so let’s take a look at your options.

Physical Exfoliant

Don’t think your skin does all the work, certain actions like using a physical exfoliant help shed those dead skin cells throughout the day. Basically, anything you brush against including the water you use when you shower or wash your face or putting on your favorite jeans assists in the dead skin shedding process. However, there are other tools and tricks you can use to help out this process. 

You’re probably already using a sponge, loofah, pumice, washcloth, or towel without realizing the exfoliation benefits. These everyday items are easy and effective when it comes to exfoliating your skin. It’s important to use these products properly though because it’s possible to scrub too hard. Harsh scrubbing can inadvertently remove the entire epidermis which exposes the dermis and can lead to bleeding and possible infection. Always follow an exfoliant session with a moisturizer to counteract flakiness.

When it comes to physical exfoliation, be aware of tools that are suitable for different parts of your body. For example, a loofah is a natural sponge made from squash and should only be used on your body, NEVER on your face. A washcloth is more appropriate in that case. Similarly, pumice stones which are volcanic rocks, work best for your dry toes and heels. 

Microneedling

This is technically another physical exfoliant, but more invasive. Microneedling, also known as a derma-roller, can be done at home or with a professional. At home microneedling treatments are cost efficient; however, professionals will recommend seeing a dermatologist to perform the procedure to avoid injury. The procedure involves using a small roller with tiny needles that prick your skin to treat scars and wrinkles.

If you choose to see a dermatologist, the doctor will apply a numbing cream beforehand to lessen any pain you may feel during the procedure.  As the needles pierce your skin, dead skin cells will be brushed away and the tiny punctures created will promote the production of collagen.  This action will improve the elasticity of your skin; thus, reducing wrinkles and sagging. 

Scrubs

Scrubs are one of the most popular exfoliation methods. It’s a mixture of ingredients specifically made to aid in the removal of dead skin cells and provide proper hydration afterward. You can buy these over-the-counter or make them at home using a wide variety of ingredients. Whether store-bought or homemade, the one element they have in common is an abrasive ingredient like salt or sugar. The only other must-have in a scrub would be an oil.

Microbeads, which are made of plastic, used to be the main ingredient in most exfoliants on the market and were great at scrubbing off dead skin cells. However, scientists discovered the tiny spheres were traveling from your sink into the ocean. The tiny beads were negatively impacting the environment and affecting marine wildlife, and as a result, microbeads were banned in several countries. Since then, beauty companies began using eco-friendly collagen beads and naturally abrasive ingredients like coffee grounds, oatmeal, and salt. 

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a procedure that basically consists of sanding your epidermis. It removes dead skin cells and existing ones to promote new cell growth and collagen. Similar to microneedling, your skin will be very raw afterward so it’s important to apply a moisturizing lotion and avoid sun exposure until a new layer of skin grows back. A dermatologist or other medical professional will normally preform this rather costly treatment. The results are usually quite effective so it’s worth every penny.

Natural Chemical Exfoliant

The natural chemical exfoliant process is very popular. It uses various acids to dissolve dead skin cells on your epidermis, revealing glowing skin. Putting acid on your face might sound scary; however, trained professionals are skilled in controlling the process. Furthermore, most of these acids are actually natural. For example, glycolic acid and alpha hydroxy acid derive from sugar cane, citric acid comes from citrus, lactic acid from milk, malic acid is present in apples, and tartaric acid in grapes.

The way this kind of facial scrub works is by loosening the gooey substance that binds cells together, allowing your skin to peel off gently. They also promote the production of collagen and elastin. The fresh layer of skin will be softer and fresher than before. You can get over-the-counter chemical exfoliators but they won’t be as strong as one done at a professional clinic.

Laser Resurfacing

Using lasers on skin is probably one of the most extreme procedures available so expect sedation if the surgeon will be working on your face. You must undergo a medical exam beforehand to ensure you’re healthy enough proceed. There are two types of procedures: ablative and non-ablative; however, the latter isn’t as effective.

So, what can you expect during this procedure? First of all, this is an outpatient procedure so arrange a ride back home. An intense laser will be directed at your face and basically destroys your epidermis while simultaneously improving your dermis with heat to stimulate the production of collagen. The entire procedure can take 30 minutes to two hours, depending on your needs. 

After the procedure, your face will be entirely exposed, raw, red, and itchy. Your doctor will apply an ointment and wrap your face in bandages. Soon your skin will start rebuilding the epidermis, but it might take up to one month to fully heal. You might want to consider taking time off to stay home to heal, avoid further facial irritation, and decrease the risk of infection. Your skin will be tender for several months, but the results are worth it when you finally heal. Note that you must continue taking care of your skin in order to maintain the desired results.

Exfoliating Scrubs We Love

DIY Exfoliation Scrubs

Professional exfoliation is only necessary for people whose skin requires medical treatments. Is your skin free of acne and blemishes? If so, consider adding a scrub to your daily routine instead of having a professional exfoliate your skin. You don’t have to spend a lot of money; in fact, you can make sugar scrubs at home with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Coconut oil, green tea, the salicylic acid in aspirin, and vitamin C in citruses are all great ingredients for homemade scrubs.

Gathering the Ingredients

When it comes to homemade scrubs, texture is a key! For the base of the scrub, use a granular, abrasive ingredient that can scrape dead skin cells off.  For example, spent coffee grounds, salt, sugar, or oatmeal are all ideal choices. Not only will these products fulfill their scrubbing duties, but they’ll also provide your skin with antioxidants. 

Next, you’ll need some kind of acid; milk is a popular choice because it contains lactic acid. Keep in mind exfoliation will dry out your skin; therefore, keep it moisturized. Consider adding olive oil for added hydration, and its rich nutrients that are great for skin.

Honey is another beneficial ingredient to add to your homemade scrub due to its antibacterial and healing properties. Lastly, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to reap the aromatherapeutic benefits. Mix and match, play around, and design your own special face scrub to remove the dry skin from your face.

Aging Is Normal

You can’t stop the aging process but there are many things you can do to slow the appearance of again skin. As you know, your skin becomes thinner and loose as you age so it’s important to take care of it. A wrinkle won’t hurt you but it might take a toll on your self-esteem so accept yourself the way you are. Understanding how your body works will make it easier.

There are many things you can do to age gracefully. For one, embrace it instead of trying to hide or prevent it. You may not be aware of it, but many procedures out there can actually maim you. Your skin is the first thing people see, and it’s a reflection of your health so you must take good care of it. Let’s see what else you can do to give your skin that youthful glow.

Healthy Diet

Being intentional about what you eat is key when it comes to having radiant skin. You may have heard bad things about fat but it’s actually very important for your body. That’s right, fats, and omega 3 fatty acids, in particular, supply your skin with nutrients and elasticity it needs. 

You can find these in eggs, dairy, bluefish, avocados, nuts, and seeds. As you age, your body starts to produce less of these nutrients so it’s important to include more of these foods into your diet. These also provide other vitamins in the B complex as well as minerals like iron, iodine, and zinc. If you don’t have access to these foods, there are supplements available. 

Exercise

It may sound weird, but exercise can improve certain skin conditions such as Rosacea. Exercise increases blood flow and carries oxygen and nutrients to the working cells around your body. It also flushes away free radicals. When your body temperature increases the sweat your produce releases toxins from your body. Always drink plenty of water and properly clean your skin after profuse sweating; otherwise, you run the risk of clogging your pores which can lead to skin imperfections.

Skincare Routines

Skincare routines are important in keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy.  Improve your routine by adding natural products into your regimen. It doesn’t have to be expensive; you can always make moisturizers, scrubs, and some cosmetics in the comfort of your own home! In fact, you probably already have the ingredients you need at home right now. Do you have an avocado? If you do, you can mix it with olive oil to create a great hydrating face mask. You can eat the leftovers with some tortilla chips while you wait for it to do its thing. 

So, can an exfoliating scrub help you fight the appearance of aging skin? Well, yes, it can as long as you don’t think of aging as an ugly thing to avoid or prevent. Enjoy the journey and allow yourself to age gracefully. Your skin will never look the way it did when you were younger but exfoliating it will assist in the removal of dead skin cells and the creation of healthier looking skin. A good attitude is the real fountain of youth.