How To Exfoliate Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, you will know that many beauty treatments which leave other people glowing with health can simply upset your skin. However, all types of skin need to be cared for properly, and this includes removing dirt and dead skin cells from the surface. Here are some tips to treat a sensitive complexion.

Exfoliation is recommended by skincare experts to slough off dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin at least once a week. By doing this, you will remove built-up oil and dirt, improve blood circulation, and make your complexion appear brighter. It will also make it easier for creams and lotions to sink deep into your skin.

There are many ways to exfoliate, such as using a chemical peel, a facial scrub, applying a brush in circular motions, or using an exfoliating sponge or gloves. However, for those with sensitive skin, or conditions such as rosacea or psoriasis, these processes can leave the face red and inflamed, worsening the existing problem.

To prevent irritation of your complexion, avoid all of the above methods of exfoliation, as they will be too harsh. They may even result in broken capillaries, which are visible red blood vessels just beneath the surface of the skin.

 Instead, choose mild gentle products such as Dermalogica Microfoliant, which is a superfine powder which transforms to a textured paste when wet. The product contains salicylic acid, which helps to shed the dead skin cells. It also contains soothing ingredients such as oatmeal and tea tree oil.

Once you have slowly circulated (avoid scrubbing) the mild exfoliant over your face for no longer than one minute, rinse it away with warm water, and carefully pat your face dry with a soft microfibre face cloth. To finish off and remove any last traces of product, apply a toner, which will leave your skin feeling calm and soothed.