Skin and Body Exfoliation

Exfoliation is a technique where the layer of mostly dead epidermal cells on the outer surface of the skin is removed to expose fresher mostly living cells. It takes at least a few days for a sizeable amount of dead cells to accumulate. For most people who decide to exfoliate, once or twice a week is sufficient. Popular exfoliation methods include alpha and beta hydroxy acids, enzyme peels, microdermabrasion and other products like scrubs, loofahs, creams, cleansers and masks .

Benefits of Exfoliation:

• Removes dead skin cells.
• Makes your skin softer and smoother, fresher and brighter
• Boosts your circulation and helps unclog pores.
• Accelerates the growth of new cells.
• Results in a more even tan
• New cells are better at absorbing moisture applied to the surface

Body Exfoliation Tips & Techniques:

1. Brush dry skin before showering. Use either a loofah, Plastic Exfoliating
   Gloves or a body exfoliating brush. Start at the soles of the feet and working up.
2. Get into the bath or shower and wet your entire body.
3. Apply exfoliant cleanser to your loofah or exfoliating brush or gloves.
   Choose exfoliating cleansers that contain ingredients such as oatmeal, ground almonds or even sea salt. The grainy texture exfoliates the skin- we recommend Ancient Secrets Body Scrub/ Salts
4. Scrub your body with it, using gentle, circular motions.
5. You can make your own exfoliating cleanser, if you prefer. Mix sea salt,
   olive oil and lemon juice together, or mix ground almonds and powdered milk.
6. Use a washcloth for mild exfoliation.
7. Rub rough spots, such as heels, with a pumice stone or stick.
8. Be sure to use body moisturizers at least once every day. We recommend
   Ancient Secrets Body Lotions.
9. For a bit of pampering, try a Spa Body Scrub or Body Wrap service

Note: Some products are more abrasive than others. If your skin is sensitive, use as little friction as possible and stick to the least abrasive products.

Face Exfoliation: Keep in mind that the facial area is more sensitive than your body, do no use body scrubs on your face. Try Phytomer Gommage or MD Formulations products which host glycolic compounds for intensive exfoliation. For professional face exfoliation try a Spa Glycolic Facial.

Exfoliation and Self Tanning: Exfoliation is very important especially if you are going to apply self tanner. Be sure to exfoliate every bit of dead skin or you will notice streaks that are darker than others. Areas of concentration: Knees, elbows, feet and knuckles. For professional tanning results, try a Spa Guinot Body Bronzing service.

Foot Exfoliation: Get rid of dry cracked peeling feet and ragged, dry nails with a Spa Pedicure. After one visit, your dry skin will be gone and your feet will be ready to soak up the Spring and Summer weather.

For more information on the products and spa services in Vancouver, please visit www.lepetitspa.ca or www.spaboutique.ca. For more tips and special promotions, sign up for our newsletter on our home page.

If you have any additional beauty or skin care questions e-mail us and look for your answer in a future blog.