Cleaning our face is something we do regularly. However, it is not enough just to use our hands and fingertips.

According to skincare experts, facial cleansing brushes, sponges and other tools are great for completely cleaning the last shred of makeup, sunscreen remnants, and everyday dirt and grime that your hands might miss. And they are especially great for those who live in the city because there is too much pollution our skin is regularly experiencing.s

How do we take care of our skin?

There are many ways that we can take care of our skin. Of course, aside from eating the proper diet, having a healthy lifestyle, better sleep, and exercise – we have our own skincare routine.

A skincare routine is essential to make sure that our skin is maintained and become healthy. For some, they have different rituals for doing it while others do it for just a few simple steps.

The steps depend on your needs and the amount of time that you have. Usually, a basic skincare routine includes removing makeup, cleansing the face, exfoliation, and applying skincare products such as moisturisers, serums, sunscreen, eye cream, etc.

At what age do you start having a skincare routine?

It is never too early or late to have a skincare routine. Even children can do it because it is important to know how to clean and wash their faces regularly.

However, you have to choose your skincare products carefully especially if you have sensitive skin. Make sure to pick the right product for your age and the skin concerns that you have. For example, adults can focus on products that will help them fight early signs of ageing and have healthy skin while adolescents can start using moisturisers and sunscreen to help prevent their skin from the harmful rays of the sun.

Therefore, it is best to build a routine that is appropriate for you and the needs of your skin.

What are the best exfoliators to use for your skin?

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface layers. It can help to remove dry or dull skin, improve blood circulation, and brighten and improve the appearance of your skin.

It can be done in a variety of ways. Which method you choose and how often you exfoliate should be determined by your skin type. However, exfoliation isn’t recommended for those who have skin problems, such as rosacea. So, it is best to get advice from a skin expert before doing exfoliation.

There are different ways to exfoliate your skin. Facial brushes and scrubs are forms of physical or mechanical exfoliation while there are others that use chemical exfoliation such as skin peels or acid peels which can be done professionally in a spa clinic or at home but with caution.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular ways to exfoliate your skin –

Facial cleansing brush

Facial cleansing brushes have been in the skincare market for quite some time and recently, it is starting to get popular once again. They are considered one of the best face exfoliator tools on the market.

There are now different kinds of facial cleansing brushes on the market but they all have the same purpose – to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells. To use, just add your favourite facial cleanser or wash and start using it on your skin.

Sponges

Sponges can also be used as a type of physical exfoliation. They are easy to use and provide a gentle exfoliation that can be used with warm water, cleanser, or soap.

Gloves

Another type is the exfoliating glove. Gloves can be used especially if you find it difficult to hold your sponge or facial brush. It provides better grip and is effective for large areas of the body such as your legs and arms. Just lather it with soap or body wash in the shower and use it.

Chemical exfoliants

These are treatments like face peels and cleansers, masks, toners, and leave-on skincare products (serums, moisturisers) with acids or enzymes that weaken the links between dead skin cells and allow them to be dislodged easily.

They usually contain enzymes, beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Physical exfoliants such as gels and scrubs with granules, microbeads, or jojoba beads remove dead skin cells that result in radiant skin.

Natural exfoliants

Some physical approaches also include more natural exfoliation methods. Homemade DIY treatments such as oatmeal, finely crushed sugar, or baking powder mixed with warm water is a natural approach and are generally safe for your skin.

However, it is best to do a patch test of the formula first to make sure that your skin will not get irritated or you are not allergic to the ingredients used.

Takeaways

There are times that due to your busy schedule, washing and cleaning your face can be bothersome especially when you are tired after a hard day’s work.

However, cleaning your skin is essential to avoid having skin problems in the long run. Fortunately, these skincare products and tools can help maintain and keep your skin healthy and beautiful regardless of your age and skin type.

When done properly, exfoliation can provide glowing and smooth skin.

Just remember to be careful when exfoliating your skin. The skin’s surface is delicate so do it with caution. If you find that your skin is starting to get irritated or becoming red, stop exfoliating and allow your skin to heal before going back with the process again.

Author

Nicola is always on the lookout for the best beauty tools and skincare products. She believes in "prevention is better than cure" so she is always trying to perfect her beauty routine to avoid premature aging. Fun fact about Nicola: She owns a lot of sunscreens as she carries a mini sunscreen in each of her handbags and backpacks.