Skin Deep

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Spring is just around the corner, and it’s time to shed dry winter skin along with sweaters and coats. The quickest route to smooth, soft and radiant skin is to add exfoliation to your skin-care routine.

Exfoliation is the simple process of removing dead, dry skin cells to reveal the healthy new skin beneath the surface. Exfoliating the skin stimulates circulation, helps unclog pores, smoothes skin texture and improves the ability of the skin to absorb moisture. Because it stimulates cell turnover and collagen production, regular exfoliation can even result in more youthful looking skin. (Note: Those with rosacea or hypersensitive skin should not exfoliate.)

Three primary methods of exfoliation are exfoliating scrubs, fruit enzyme exfoliants and alpha-hydroxy acids.

Exfoliate with Natural Scrubs

Based on sugar, salt or finely ground grains, nuts or seeds, exfoliating scrubs remove dead skin cells through abrasion. All of these ingredients are effective as a body scrub, but salt is too abrasive and drying for facial skin. Avoid using scrubs that contain pulverized nutshells or fruit pits, which can have sharp edges, on delicate facial skin as well. Whatever type of scrub you choose, use a light touch to avoid irritating sensitive skin.

OATMEAL FACIAL SCRUB

An oatmeal skin scrub is an excellent alternative to soap. Oats provide mild exfoliation and are soothing for dry or irritated skin. This scrub is simple: Grind 1 cup dry rolled oats in a blender into a coarse powder and store in a covered container.

To use as a facial cleanser, mix 1 heaping teaspoon of pulverized oats with 1 teaspoon of skin cream (for dry skin) or 1 teaspoon of plain yogurt (for oily skin). Add 1 drop of rose geranium or lavender essential oil if desired. Dampen your face with warm water, and massage your skin with the mixture. Rinse well with warm water.

OASIS BODY SCRUB

Salt is an excellent body scrub; almonds and honey help to moisturize while smoothing skin.

1/2 cup finely ground almonds
1/2 cup sea salt
2 tablespoons almond oil
2 tablespoons liquid honey
5 drops frankincense essential oil
5 drops rose essential oil