Each morning, I apply approximately 500 creams, lotions, and mists to my face. My body might also get, if asked, a layer almond oil and some expired hand lotion.
Although your body is not as exposed to the sun and pollution as your face it can still develop sagginess and dullness below your neck. Personally, I believe that your bum should shine as brightly and radiantly as your face. Apply the serums to all sorts of wrinkles, babe.
Experts and skin care companies agree. So I’ve come up with an affordable-yet-luxurious skin care routine just for your body. It’s also very simple. You can have a routine for you face.
1. Gently cleanse
Perhaps we are too busy putting stuff on our faces that we don’t notice the horrible ingredients in our bodywash. Your skin may become dry from the use of perfumes, dyes, harsh soaps and sodium laurylsulphate, which can cause irritation. These may be the cause of skin irritations or allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin. Choose products that are gentler than sodium lauroyl estethionate instead.
“You should also look for moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, and plant oils like argan, safflower, avocado, and olive,” recommends Debra Jaliman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist.
Yes, you can put any ingredients in your moisturizer. Jaliman suggests that you put it in your bodywash. She loves Olive & Shea Moisture’s Olive & Green Tea Body Wash.
Alcohol is another ingredient to avoid. Jaliman says that some washes contain alcohol to treat oily skin or body acne. However, they can be very drying.
You can get body acne under control by using a cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide or tea tree oil.
2. Exfoliate
You can act like a snake to get rid of those old skin cells. Your body, just like your face can use a little bit of exfoliation.
Instead of using a scrub, opt for products that contain alpha hydroxy acid (AHAs), or beta hydroxy acid (BHAs). “These .acids .exfoliate the skin surface and improve its texture,” says Yemi Sokumbi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Milwaukee.
These acids will give you glowing skin in addition to removing body oil.
Jaliman says that they are better than traditional scrubs at removing excess oil and dirt from the skin.
Paula’s Choice Weightless Treatment 2% BHA with salicylic acid is a great option for daily exfoliation. Alternatively, our editor loves using Binu-Binu’s Seshin Korean Scrub Mitt .for that spa-like experience. You can also use a dry toothbrush!
Sokumbi warns that SPF should be used if you are out in the sun.
3. Shaving
Ugh. What could be more fun than shaving your legs! Yes there is – shaving your legs and your bikini line. Prepare your skin to minimize irritation.
Jaliman says that the first time you exfoliate, the hairs will be completely removed from the follicles. This reduces irritation and the chance of ingrown hairs.
Also, you should hydrate and soften the hairs by taking a bath or a shower. Use shaving gel and a razor with multiple blades to get hair shaved in one go to minimize injuries. Sokumbi says to moisturize your skin immediately following shaving.
4. Treat
You know everything you need to know about antioxidants and retinoids. Antioxidants, like vitamin C prevent the cell-destroying effects of pollution, smoke, and sun.
Luckily, there are body treatments that carry those same ingredients (though in lower concentrations). One Love Organics’ Antioxidant Body Serum is rich in sea buckthorn oil, which is full of .antioxidants. A heavier version of Vitamin C Oil is also available from the company. It’s extremely moisturizing and can be used in winter to layer on top of the spray. We have praised Vitamin C many times for its ability to improve skin brightness and reduce hyperpigmentation.
Another powerful ingredient for skin rejuvenation is Vitamin A.
Jaliman explains that “Retinol accelerates skin renewal, boosts the production of collagen and improves skin texture.” “Retinol thickens skin, which can reduce cellulite.”
To firm your skin, mix Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin Smoothing Body Treatment with your lotion.
5. Moisturize
Jaliman says that moisturizing immediately after showering can trap water and keep your skin hydrated.
You can use heavier ingredients on your body, such as almond or coconut oil, without worrying about clogging pores or breakouts. You might consider using a lotion if your skin is sensitive.
Look out for moisturizers that have been tested. Sokumbi says that creams with ceramides and hyaluronic acids help to retain hydration. She is a fan of the CeraVe Moisturizing cream.
Microneedling Bonus
Although it sounds scary, microneedling at home on the body can be more relaxing than torture. The body attachment to the Glow Pro microneedling device is large enough to be rolled across the thighs, glutes and stomachs to reduce scarring, acne marks and stretch marks.
Jaliman warns that you should always disinfect your device with alcohol after each use and never share it. The microneedling can also be used to help your skin absorb products better. It’s best to use it before you apply your moisturizer and body serum.
