Exfoliation is the removal of dead surface skin cells (flakes) from the skin.

It is one of the most important skin-care procedures and one of the least practiced. The skin's texture and contour are both improved; the thinned skin feels smoother, appears more translucent and has a lighter and more uniform colour tone.

Pores look smaller and an additional benefit is that the outer layer is more easily moisturized after the dry hard surface cells are removed.

Slough-off products can be lotions, gels or creams, sometimes with visible abrasive ingredients like grains. Some astringents act as very mild exfoliators.

Young skin may be thinned simply by rubbing with a rough facecloth wrung out in lukewarm water.

Older skin requires heavier thinning, using a preparation and a complexion brush, sponge or textured cloth. It is really a mild peel and should be done once a week, sometimes twice if skin looks scaly. Deep peels are drastic remedies to get rid of lines and blemishes; they are done by physicians or specialized cosmetologists.

The Exfoliation Procedure

Thinning is done immediately after cleansing.

Apply preparation according to instructions.

Remove by wiping or brushing off, using circular movements for forehead, chin and cheeks, vertical movements for nose, facial borders and neck; use water if necessary to clear skin.

Moisturize immediately.

Guard against early sun exposure.

Natural Exfoliation Aids

Sprinkle ordinary salt on a wet facecloth; rub face lightly, rinse away, not for delicate skin.

Papaya mint tea removes skin debris; pour 2 cups of boiling water on 2 tea bags, steep for a few minutes; soak a facecloth in the tea, wring out, apply to the face holding cloth against skin.

The tea must be hot to be effective; keep heating, and renewing cloth. Continue for 15 minutes.