Eight reasons why you need to exfoliate your body

When it comes to exfoliation, facial exfoliation immediately springs to mind but what about our bodies. Here are eight reasons why you should add body exfoliating into your skin care routine. 

Eight reasons you should exfoliate:

1. Improved skin texture: Dead skin cells can build up on the skin's surface causing new skin cells to be trapped underneath. This can often lead to clogging of pores and uneven texture. The process of exfoliation removes these dead skin cells and lets the younger newer cells come to the surface. This leaves your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
2. Improved hydration: When dead skin sits at the surface of your skin they can block oils and moisturisers from properly penetrating into the skin. This can lead to a lack of hydration, when then in turn causes more dead skin to build on the surface. By exfoliating the dead skin cells your are helping your moisturisers penetrate more deeply so your skin stays properly hydrated.
3. Stimulates blood flow and circulation: The motion of exfoliating stimulates blood flow which in turn helps flush out toxins. Exfoliating your skin is one of the best ways to stimulate blood flow and lymph drainage. This improved blood circulation minimises the appearance of cellulite, improves skin elasticity and will enhance your all over body glow and radiance
4. Unclogs pores and prevents black heads: If you fall victim to break-outs, exfoliating can help unclog pores to minimise the formation of whiteheads and blackheads.
5. Supports collagen production: Long-term exfoliating can increase collagen production. Collagen is key to glowing, vibrant skin. The protein also promotes skin elasticity, minimising the appearance of fine lines and related sagging.
6. Reduce development of ingrown hairs on legs: A buildup of dead skin can block hair follicles and can lead to the development of ingrown hairs. Gentle exfoliation can help reduce the risk of ingrown hairs and makes shaving easier. 
7. Prepare Your Skin for Tanning (real or fake!): Whether you’re planning on fake tanning or soaking up the rays in the sunshine, exfoliating is an important pre-tanning step.Removing dead skin cells by exfoliating makes sure you have a smooth, even skin surface ready for applying fake tan. This will help your tan look it’s absolute best and prevent it from going patchy. Similarly, exfoliating before tanning in the sun will help your tan last longer and look more even by removing dry skin. If you plan to exfoliate before tanning, make sure you use a moisturiser after exfoliating and use a sun protecting moisturiser when tanning to keep your body hydrated and protected.
8. Cleansing for the mind and soul when combined with a self-care affirmations ritual: When you exfoliate your body it's an excellent time to focus on cleansing your mind and refreshing your spirit. Turn in to the exfoliation experience with a self care shower ritual. 

Top tip:

With all good things moderation is required. Exfoliation should only be done 1-2 times per week. Over exfoliation can cause irritation. Be very careful on sensitive areas, sunburn or flaring acne.