YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO NATURAL EXFOLIATION
If you’re as obsessed with skincare as we are, then you probably know exfoliation is the key to glowing skin. We’ll take a deep dive into why exfoliation is so important, and explain the best way to exfoliate naturally—without the need for any harsh or toxic chemicals.
Why is exfoliation good for your skin?
Exfoliation removes the top layer of dead skin cells that can cause your skin to look dull or lackluster. When you remove that superficial layer, you automatically reveal fresher, glowier, healthier-looking skin. Plus, any creams or oils you apply afterward will absorb more effectively. The reason is simple: you don’t have dead skin standing in the way, so your skin will drink in the added hydration.
In addition to the immediate glow-boosting benefits, regulation exfoliation also helps your skin “behave” in a younger manner. How is that possible? It’s rooted in science. When we’re very young, our skin cells turn over quickly, about every 14 days or so. That’s why young children’s skin looks so naturally fresh and dewy. As we age, though, our skin cell turnover slows down—stretching to about 28 days in adulthood and as long as 60-90 days as we grow older. When you exfoliate regularly, you’re supporting skin cell turnover and promoting cellular regeneration—helping your skin look and act younger.
Exfoliation also benefits acne-prone skin types. Breakouts happen when your pores become clogged with a sticky mixture of sebum and dead skin cells. When you exfoliate regularly, it helps prevent clogs from happening in the first place.
How do I exfoliate my skin naturally?
There are two primary methods of exfoliation: chemical and physical. Chemical exfoliation involves using an alpha-hydroxy, beta-hydroxy or poly-hydroxy acid to “break” cellular bonds and remove the top layer of dead skin. These can come in the form of acid toners, serums or peels (either at-home or in your derm’s office).
Physical exfoliation, on the other hand, means that you’re removing dead skin cells manually. One way is to use an exfoliating scrub. You can also use a tool such as an exfoliating mitt, a plain old washcloth or—our favorite!—a dry brush. This natural method of exfoliation is a gentle, time-honored, chemical-free and pregnancy-safe way to get glowing.
What is dry brushing?
The traditional Ayurvedic practice of dry brushing exfoliates skin without the need for harsh, potentially toxic chemicals. As you sweep the brush over your skin, the bristles create gentle friction that removes the top layer of dull, dead skin cells. The practice is known as Garshana, which translates to “friction by rubbing.”
Dry brushing not only exfoliates your skin, it also supports your body’s natural detox flow by boosting microcirculation and getting stagnant fluid moving. The de la heart dry brushing ritual was specifically created to support lymphatic flow and optimize wellness. When you practice it regularly, you’ll notice increased energy, reduced bloating, a stronger immune system and (of course!) radiant skin.
How to dry brush your body:
Before you start, make sure that your skin is completely dry (not damp). “Your skin needs to be fully dry in order to create the necessary friction,” Gigi explains. “That’s why I usually dry brush in the morning, before my shower.”
To begin, grab either The Body Brush or The Copper Body Brush. Then simply brush your body in long rhythmic strokes, aiming for 5-10 strokes per area. Start at your upper arm, move to your lower arm, then brush from your wrist to all the way to your underarm.
Next, move to your chest. Use extra-gentle pressure to dry brush from the center outward. Now move to your waist and brush from behind your torso toward the front of your body. Brush the abdominal area in gentle circular motions to promote digestion.
To dry brush your legs, start at your knees and brush upward toward your bikini line. Now move to your lower legs and brush from ankle to kneecap. Don’t forget to brush the tops of your feet too. Repeat on both sides of your body, then shower to remove the dead skin that’s been exfoliated. (For a full step-by-step click here!) [link to full ritual]
How to dry brush your face:
Use The Facial Dry Brush to perform this ritual. “I designed this brush to have soft, flexible bristles that treat delicate facial skin gently,” notes Gigi. “Exfoliating with this brush has transformed the texture and tone of my skin.”
Start at your neck and brush in downward motions. Now move to your face and brush from the center of your chin, along the jawline, toward your ears. After that, move your brush up slightly and brush over your cheekbones. Repeat on both sides.
To dry brush your forehead, start in the center and brush up and out. Repeat on each side of the forehead. For your undereye area, use extra-gentle pressure to brush from nose to temples. When you’re finished, cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser, rinse and pat dry. (For a full step-by-step click here!)
What should I do after I dry brush?
Great question! The next step in your exfoliating ritual is hydration—known as dinacharya in the Ayurvedic tradition. Organic Jojoba Oil is ideal to hydrate your face, because it has a unique molecular structure that’s similar to the natural oil produced by our skin. It’s non-comedogenic, it helps soothe inflammation, and it’s a rich source of antioxidants including vitamin E, vitamin B, copper and zinc. “I love misting on Vibrant Rose Water Mist, then applying a light layer of Organic Jojoba Oil to give my skin instant radiance,” Gigi says.
When it comes to your body, layering is the way to glow. Apply your favorite de la heart body cream, then layer on an oil to seal in the benefits. “I mix and match depending on what my skin and body needs at the time,” Gigi says. “I love to apply Flow + Glow Body Oil followed by Lift & Tone Body Cream after I dry brush and before I do my body massage ritual. It helps The Body Tool glide effortlessly. And if I’m going out or have an event, I layer Golden Body Oil over Cacay Whipped Body Butter for a sexy glow. That combo is my date night favorite!”
How often should I dry brush?
This answer really depends on your skin type and personal preference. Some people find they like to dry brush 4-5 times per week, while others prefer just 2-3 times per week. If your skin is more sensitive, for example, you may not want to dry brush as often. As always, listen to what your body is telling you.
