If you are over the age of 40, then you may have a dry skin condition. This is extremely common and may require some additional assistance on your part. Exfoliation is often a good way to reduce dryness issues, so keep reading to understand why this can help and also how to exfoliate correctly.

How Does Exfoliation Help Dry Skin?

Your skin goes through a lot of changes as you age, and these changes can reduce the overall aesthetic appearance of your face, neck, arms, legs, and hands. Dry skin will occur due to the reduction in the oil glands that extend through the epidermis. The oil glands that remain in working order will often produce less oil as well, and this leads to a reduction in the moisture that keeps your skin looking soft and supple. 

Dry skin can become noticeable due to the overall thinning of the skin and the fragility of the epidermis. Specifically, the exposed layers of the epidermis will contain less collagen and elastin, so it will not "bounce back" as readily from scrapes and scratches. 

While skin does thin, you will still have numerous cell layers. The outermost layer is comprised of dead skin cells, and these are the driest cells of the epidermis. The cells will fall away and expose the underlying layer of epidermal tissue, but this layer can start to dry out as well before it is exposed.

If you want to expose the layer before it loses all of its moisture, then you will need to physically scrape away the dry outer layer. This is what happens when you exfoliate your skin.

How To Exfoliate Properly

Exfoliation is the physical removal of epidural tissue, and you only want to release the top layer of dry skin. This means using an exfoliation tool that is gentle. Aggressive exfoliation can remove multiple layers of skin and leave your body feeling raw and sensitive. You may also see some redness and chapping if you are too aggressive.

You can exfoliate properly by choosing the right tool. Skip the hard scrub brushes, and opt for a silicone style tools instead. Natural sponges can be used as well as long as you use light pressure across the skin.

Exfoliate about two or three times a week or once every five days or so if you have sensitive skin. Use a cream cleanser on your brush when you exfoliate, and rinse your face thoroughly with warm water. When you are done, make sure to use a moisturizing lotion.

If you want to know more about dry skin and how you can make your skin look younger, speak with a dermatologist, such as one found through http://www.eastcarolinadermatology.com

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