Are you using the right exfoliant?

24 June 2011

Depending on what sort of complexion you have either dry or sensative for example, an exfoliant can go a long way to helping clear your skin. The majority of us wear makeup and no matter how little we use or how much we insist it is good for our skin, the build up of products, not to mention weathering can be bad for our skin.

Moisturisers and skin balancers are a good way to hydrate the skin against powders and oily foundations, but an exfoliator helps to remove dead skin cells and any build up of dirt and make up in our pores.

Here's a few pointers when you're on the hunt for your next exfoliant.

The Body Shop is a favourite when it comes to using natural products and seaweed is just one of them. Seaweed is a great clensing ingredient and so a great exfoliant to use if you can feel your skin getting tired or clogged up. It is also one for pimples and blackheads as this product helps to balance the oil levels in your skin, reducing blemishes. Only £8.

If blemishes are an issue you must face regularly, then a daily scrub may be better suited to your skin type. This Neutrogena Visibly Clear is designed to un clog pores and purify the skin. Be careful though, like all exfoliants if used to often, they can dry out your skin. Around £4.50.

Recommended by 90210 star Jessica Lowndes to our readers is the Dermalogica range for sensative skin. This works great as it is a cream which is kinder to the skin. If you suffer from eczema and dry skin then give this a try once a week to see if it helps for a healthy skin tone. Around £30.

Dull skin is something we do not want to have to worry about and this Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner is a way to avoid that.

This product is not only designed to soothe the skin but add some light and tone to the skin too. Perfect if you have an event you want to look radiant for or a holiday glow you're trying to achieve. £14.

Aloe Vera is one of the best things to soothe skin and so if you suffer from irritations and redness then this is a good exfoliator to use to battle the problem. This Body Shop Aloe Vera exfoliator should be used once a week and then if needed to help skin settle. Use with a simple moisturiser too to avoid further irritation. £8.