I love exfoliating: I exfoliate my body, my face, and my feet- so basically everything, and I want to share what I consider to be the best ways to exfoliate.
Exfoliating is basically a process which removes the top layer of old skin cells, leaving you with softer, smoother, fresher skin. There are tons of expensive exfoliating products out there, but in my opinion, there is no need to spend a lot of money on it. As always, the best things are always simple.
Here’s my exfoliation run down.
Body Brushing
A body brush is a brush that you use on your skin to whisk away dry skin and dead skin cells. It’s also an amazing way to get your lymphatic system pumping and gently aid in your body’s detoxification process. To use your body brush, you want to brush before you get into the shower or bath, on dry skin. Brush in large circles or sweeping strokes towards your heart; so for example, start at your ankles and work up to you knees, then knees to hips, lower belly to upper belly, wrist to elbow, etc.
You can also use the brush (gently) on your bikini line to help with any irritation or razor burn.
Homemade Body Scrubs
You can also make really great body scrubs at home to use either instead of or in addition to your body brush.
My favourites are olive oil or coconut oil mixed with salt, coffee grinds, and or sugar. Mix any combo of the above ingredients together, and apply to your skin prior to showering (I usually stand in the tub when applying it to minimize the mess). Then just rinse off in the shower- don’t worry about scrubbing the oil off- it will sink into your skin and double as a moisturizer.
Facial Brushes/Sponges
Much like a body brush, you can use a brush or a sponge to exfoliate your skin. The bristles will be softer than your body brush because the skin on your face is more delicate. I use a sponge probably use it 2-3 times per week. Just wet the sponge or brush, and gently scrub your face moving in a circular motion.
Konjac Sponge
Konjac sponges originated in Asia, and they’re actually the root of the konjac plant. The sponge has a cool squishy feel and is great if you have sensitive skin because it is a really gentle exfoliator. I actually am not sure if it’s technically considered to be an exfoliator, but it helps to unclog your pores and it leaves your face feeling smooth, so same diff. I found mine at the drug store (Quo at Shopper’s Drug Mart, if you live in Canada), but you can also find them online and at Sephora.
Homemade Facial Scrubs
You can also make really great facial scrubs at home. I like to mix white sugar with a small amount of water (not too much or it will dissolve the sugar) and rub it over my skin. Rinse it off and follow up with a nice moisturizer (I use grapeseed oil).
Pumice Stones
Lastly, we can’t forget about our feet! My friend shamed me into getting a pumice stone this summer after seeing my umm.. somewhat dry heels. I use one of the handled ones (the silver one in the photo), and I find it’s best to use it when you’re feet are damp (i.e. after your shower, dry your feet off and then scrub away). All you need is a quick scrub every couple of days to keep your heels in check.
I really do notice a difference in the feeling and texture of my skin if I skimp on my exfoliating routine! It’s minimal effort that makes a big difference. 
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