I had been scrubbing my face for years befor I found out I´m absolutely not allowed to do anything of the kind. The damage has been done, and I have turned to Gommage-type and chemical exfoliation insetad. But I do envy those who can snag that instant glow a good scrub treatment brings !
What is mechanical exfoliation ?
It´s using something rough to slough off the top layer of dead skin cells. It´s one of the main four types of exfoliation (the others being Gommage-type, chemical and physical). I´ve written this basic guide about
what is exfoliation and why it´s good.
Mechanical exfoliation is not for you if you have:
- Sensitive skin
- Acne
- Fragile blood capillaries & broken veins (it might break more veins)
- Enlarged pores (it will injure the walls of pores)
Other than that, mechanical exfoliating is great as long as you don´t exceed once or twice a week !
A note on mechanical exfoliation and ethnicity
Caucasian skin is more delicate, and prone to fragile capillaries, so I´d suggest being gentle when it comes to scrubs & co. But ladies of other ethnic backgrounds might find vigorous exfoliating is best for their skin. Ricebunny once posted a tutorial on cleaning your face with an electric toothbrush; if I did that every single capillary of mine would be broken. Anyway, if you´re not sure, do your research.
When in doubt, be gentle. Your face is not the bathroom floor.
Stay tuned for a post that will help you in choosing between all these types of exfoliation ! And of yourse DIY recipes, and a guide to chemical and Gommage-type exfoliation.
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