Exfoliation, or the process of removal of dead skin cells, is an integral part of skin care. The shedding of dead skin cells and formation of new ones is a constant process. A healthy skin renews itself totally in about 28 days. In fact, the shedding of dead cells encourages the birth of new ones. However, due to various reasons, the process of cell renewal may slow down.
This can lead to a build-up of dead cells on the skin, making the skin rough and dull. It can also make the complexion uneven and lead to premature aging. Through exfoliation, we can remove dead cells and help the process of cell renewal. The use of scrubs and grains thus helps to delay aging signs, as it speeds up the cell-renewal process.
Exfoliation of the skin can be done with facial scrubs and cleansing grains. These are grainy substances which are to be rubbed gently on the skin and then washed off. An oily skin benefits from daily use of grains and scrubs, as it keeps the pores free of clogged oil and discourages and dislodges blackheads. For oily skins with blackheads, this can be performed daily, immediately after cleansing or washing the face. However, a point to note is that scrubs and grainy substances should not be used on sensitive skin and on pimples, rash, spots or acne. It is very interesting to note that one of the most powerful natural exfoliators is diamond. It is said that during the ancient times, the fabled Mughal Queens used diamond in combination with botanical extracts and the silt from running brooks. The silt contained invaluable plant and mineral deposits. These ingredients were mixed with the oil of musk and milk, to be applied as face and body masks. It was considered to be a powerful dermabrasive treatment that erased fine lines and wrinkles, exfoliating the skin and controlling the ageing process, thus protecting the skin from the visible effects of the ravages of time. In skin care, diamond has been used in the form of diamond “bhasma.” We have formulated an exfoliator with diamond “bhasma” and botanical extracts, to exfoliate the skin on the face and body. It facilitates the removal of dead skin cells, refining skin texture and leaving the skin revitalized and rejuvenated. It also contains extracts of cucumber seeds, rose, walnut, along with oils of almond, lemon and olive, which are nourishing and hydrating compounds, with powerful rejuvenating properties.
Home Scrubs
Home ingredients can also be used to exfoliate the skin. Almond meal (ground almonds), oatmeal, rice flour, wheat bran (choker) can be used as facial scrubs. Wheat bran and almond meal can be mixed together, adding milk or curd. Rice flour can be mixed with curd and a pinch of turmeric into a paste and used to scrub the face. It would suit oily skins. Gram flour (besan) can be mixed with yogurt (curd) into a paste and applied on the face. It should be removed when dry by rubbing the skin gently. Wash with plenty of water.
You can make an excellent exfoliator or cleansing scrub at home by taking one teaspoon ground dry orange or lemon peels, one teaspoon oatmeal and one teaspoon ground almonds. Add one teaspoon of rose water. Apply on the face and rub gently with circular movements. Then wash off with water. For dry skin, facial scrubs should be used only once a week. For oily skin, they may be used three or four times a week. Orange and lemon peels should be dried thoroughly in the sun and kept in a tightly closed container. For oatmeal, you can use the oats that are available for making porridge.