Tried Body Exfoliation With An Ayurvedic Body Scrub?

What is Body Exfoliation?

Ayurveda and exfoliation are extremely well acquainted. Body exfoliation in particular forms an integral part of this ancient health and well-being system. Ayurveda is a lifestyle, body scrubbing benefits the exterior of your skin. As well as benefiting your internal body and mind, exfoliating is an all-encompassing mind and body relaxation experience. You might be wondering why we should exfoliate and why full-body exfoliation is beneficial. With age and accumulated sun damage, the skin’s natural ability to shed dead surface cells slows down—sometimes stopping altogether. The result is a build-up of dry, ashy-looking skin that can make your arms, elbows, legs—pretty much everywhere—look dull, uneven, and older than they really are. So here’s exactly what Ayurveda says on exfoliators and how they help support a healthy mind and body:

Physical Benefits

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the outer layers of your skin. It can be beneficial for removing dry or dull skin, increasing blood circulation, and brightening and improving your skin’s appearance. There are different methods for exfoliation. Your skin type should determine which method you use and how often you exfoliate. For certain skin conditions, including rosacea, exfoliation isn’t usually recommended.

Did You Know That Body Scrubs Remove Your Dead Skin Cells?

The obvious point is the sloughing away of dead skin that builds up, especially in Winter. Body scrubbing regularly rids the body from a build-up of hard, dead skin. This helps maintain soft and healthy skin underneath. The regular removal of dead skin cells can also help to reduce any scarring or pigmentation leaving the skin summer-ready. The action of body scrubbing stimulates the lymphatic system beneath your skin's multiple layers. This rids the body of a build-up of toxins. Igniting your lymphatic system helps to maintain a strong immune system. Scrubbing in the direction of your heart also helps to unblock the lymph ducts which are located all over your body, but particularly the ones around your heart. Body brushing is a key part of Ayurveda as it helps reduce cellulite, cleanse your body internally and literally polishes your skin’s exterior.

Mental Benefits

Body scrubbing is a great way to stimulate multiple senses. Body exfoliation can significantly improve the mood as the body mentally recognizes the performance of this self ritual. The scent of the body scrub also affects the mind and fills the bathroom with its scent. For an uplifting and revitalizing effect try our Purifying Body Scrub. Enriched with minty ingredients such as Neem, Henna, Tea Tree and Eucalyptus, the senses awaken with a Zing making it the ideal product for a morning scrub. For those wanting a relaxing and calming experience perhaps in the evening time, our Soothing Body Scrub will certainly leave the mind in a tranquil state. Sandalwood has not only healing properties but also a calming effect on the mind which is ideal for those wanting to wind down before bedtime.

4 Types Of Body Exfoliation Tools

1. Exfoliating Body Brush

This is usually a bristle brush used on the face or body to remove layers of dead skin cells. Some are designed for dry brushing. Others can be used with your facial cleanser or body wash.

2. Exfoliation Sponge

These are a gentler way to exfoliate the skin. You can lather an exfoliating sponge with warm water, soap, or body wash in the shower. An exfoliation sponge can help reduce clogged pores and ingrown hairs.

3. Exfoliating Glove

If you find brushes or sponges difficult to grip, you can use a glove. Lather it with soap or body wash in the shower. They can be effective for large areas such as legs or arms. An exfoliating glove can help you achieve smooth skin if used regularly.

4. Exfoliating Body Scrub

Body scrubs can be applied directly to the skin using a gentle, circular motion. You can wash your skin with warm water after applying the scrub. If you have especially sensitive skin, we suggest using a coconut oil body polish, body lotion or body oil to help soothe and calm your skin post-exfoliation.

6 Tips For Exfoliation:

• Always start scrubbing from the feet upwards in the direction of the heart
• Scrub the torso and back last
• Scrub your body exfoliator in circular motions
• Apply firm pressure on thicker areas of the body like the bottoms of the feet and light pressure where the skin is thinner
• For extra dry areas, scrub directly onto dry skin before a shower or bath and then continue scrubbing in water
• Use a body scrub before a massage or body wrap treatment as prep for the skin

How to Exfoliate Your Skin By Skin (And Dosha) Type

When mechanically exfoliating, it’s important to be gentle on your skin. You can make small, circular motions using your finger to apply your body scrub or use your exfoliating tool of choice. If you use a body brush, make short, light strokes. Exfoliate for about 30 seconds and then rinse off with lukewarm — not hot — water. Avoid exfoliating if your skin has cuts, open wounds, has a condition like melasma, or is sunburned. Apply a moisturizer with SPF after exfoliating.

Dry Skin (Typically Vata)

Exfoliation is important for dry or flaky skin. A Vata dominant person has dry and rough skin that tends to wrinkle if not moisturized regularly. Exfoliation will help remove dead cells sitting on the surface of the skin and encourage healthy skin turnover. Follow up with an SPF and moisturizer after exfoliation. It can make your skin more prone to sun damage.

Oily Skin (Typically Pitta or Kapha)

People with high pitta tend to have oily skin that’s prone to acne and rosacea. This type of skin needs more cooling elements like aloe vera, turmeric (which is anti-inflammatory), and sandalwood (which reduces pimples and redness). Kapha skin tends to be cold and oily, and it may be prone to pimples, whiteheads, and water retention. Yanamandra recommends dry brushing to remove obstructions, stimulate the lymphatic system, and exfoliate. Oily or thicker skin can benefit from manual exfoliation with a body scrub and brushing to remove dead skin cells. Oily skin may have an extra layer of buildup on the surface that manual exfoliation with a body scrub can remove. Gently use an exfoliator or body scrub in circular motions for the best results and smooth skin.