Exfoliate Naturally

Exfoliating is a crucial part in skin care that cannot be skipped especially since our skin goes through so much damage being under the sun, drying wind, air pollution and free radicals. What exfoliating does to counter damage from these elements is by aiding the skins natural shedding process of dry, dull, hardened skin and exposing new skin cells.

When one is consistent with their exfoliating game then soft, smooth and toned skin that is receptive to other skin care products is revealed. Since exfoliating with scrubs can be a little harsh on the skin, I researched on natural skin exfoliants that are gentle and these two are by far my favorite.

Pumpkin

Full of enzymes that actively dissolves dead, dry and damaged skin, pumpkin stands out as a great natural exfoliants which is gentle to the skin because it moisturizes and soothes the skin as well. Rich in Vitamin A,C and Zinc, pumpkin is an excellent carrier as it penetrates deep in the skin layers to ensure maximum absorption of this vitamins and other ingredients in a pumpkin mask.

I use pumpkin on its own most of the time but incase I am feeling a little extra, I'll add either lemon juice, cucumber juice, potato juice, honey or milk. The additional ingredients act to naturally brighten and even out the skin from acne scars and/or hyperpigmentation.

When I get pumpkin from my parents farm upcountry (you can also get it from the local market), I peal of the skin (which is a work-out in itself) then chop them up into portions and store them in small batches in the freezer. When I am ready to make a mask, I take out one batch early enough and let it thaw then throw it in the blender. Alternatively you can lightly boil it or steam it to make it easy to mash into a puree. Both pumpkin purees will get the job done.




Pawpaw/ Papaya

Papaya enzymes called papain work similar to pumpkin enzymes as they gently loosen and dissolve dead, dry and flaky skin. It also contains vitamin A and Carotene which acts as an anti-aging remedy as well as fading acne scars and hyperpigmentation.


Soon after buying papaya from my local market, I wash it, peel it,mash it and on to the face it goes. This exfoliating mask is easier to prepare compared to the pumpkin mask and therefore ideal for those lazy days. I can add all the juices mentioned above or use it as is.

It is advisable to exfoliate at night to allow your skin atleast 8hours of no sun exposure because the new skin is sensitive and as always apply a sunscreen during the day.

So that is it. I hope you give these natural exfoliating masks a try and be sure to report back on the changes you have noticed. Also feel free to share which natural exfoliants you use on a regular to maintain your healthy glowy skin.

Later Loves
XOXO

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