Exfoliating Mitts - Benefits, How to Use, and Tips for Body Exfoliation

What Are Exfoliating Mitts and Why Use Them?

Exfoliating is an important part of any skin care routine. It removes dead skin cells, dirt, oil, and other impurities from the surface of the skin, revealing newer, fresher skin underneath. Exfoliating leads to a brighter, more even complexion and can help with skin concerns like acne, dullness, and dryness. While many people focus their exfoliating efforts on the face, using scrubs and facial exfoliating brushes, it's also beneficial to exfoliate the body.

Exfoliating mitts, also sometimes called exfoliating gloves or body scrubbers, are tools designed to gently scrub away dead skin cells and debris from the body. Using an exfoliating mitt helps slough off dull surface cells, hydrate the skin, improve circulation, and give the body smoother, softer, more radiant looking skin.

Benefits of Using an Exfoliating Mitt

There are many benefits to using an exfoliating mitt on the body:

• Removes dead skin cells - Exfoliating mitts physically slough off the dead, dull cells on the very top layer of skin.
• Reveals fresher skin - Getting rid of dead skin unveils the newer, more radiant skin underneath.
• Smooths skin texture - Removing dead cells and debris helps reveal smoother looking skin.
• Allows moisture to penetrate better - Getting rid of dead cells enhances the skin's ability to absorb and retain moisture.
• Helps reduce ingrown hairs - Exfoliating can help prevent dead skin cells from clogging hair follicles and causing ingrown hairs.
• Improves appearance of keratosis pilaris - Gently scrubbing body skin helps treat bumpy keratosis pilaris.
• Boosts circulation - The massaging motion increases blood flow to the skin's surface.
• Helps body care products absorb better - Exfoliating creates a clean canvas so body lotions, sunscreens, etc can absorb better.
• Makes self-tanning more even - Removing dead skin helps self-tanners absorb evenly for more uniform coverage.
• Extends faux glow from sunless tanners - Exfoliating helps fake bakes last longer by getting rid of the dead cells that cause it to fade.

When Should You Exfoliate Your Body?

Most dermatologists recommend exfoliating your body around 2-3 times per week, but you can adjust this based on your specific skin type and concerns.

Those with very dry or sensitive skin may find that once or twice a week is sufficient, while those with oiler skin types may prefer to exfoliate more frequently, even up to every day. Pay attention to how your skin looks and feels to find your optimal exfoliating frequency.

It's best to avoid exfoliating skin that is sunburned, extremely dry, or irritated. Allow time for any irritation to heal before scrubbing. Exfoliating too aggressively or too often can cause microtears in the skin barrier and lead to irritation and inflammation.

Exfoliating before applying self-tanning products helps slough off dead cells so the tan absorbs evenly. You'll also want to exfoliate before using rich creams or deep conditioning treatments so the products can better penetrate the skin.

If you shave your legs or other body parts, exfoliating first can help prevent ingrown hairs. Just be sure to wait 24-48 hours after exfoliating before shaving.

How to Use an Exfoliating Mitt

Using an exfoliating mitt is quite simple:

1. Select your exfoliating mitt of choice.
2. Wet the mitt lightly with warm water and apply a dollop of body wash, scrub, soap, or just water.
3. Starting at your feet, gently massage the mitt over your skin using circular motions. Avoid scrubbing too harshly.
4. Work upward toward your heart. This improves circulation and drainage in the lymphatic system.
5. Rinse thoroughly then follow up with moisturizer. Pat dry instead of rubbing for more gentle treatment.
6. Use 2-3 times per week over most of your body, avoiding more delicate areas like the face.

Take care not to scrub too forcefully. The exfoliating fibers woven into the mitt do the work of sloughing off dead cells, so vigorous, harsh scrubbing is not necessary. Be extra gentle over delicate areas like the chest and dcolletage.

Choosing an Exfoliating Mitt

There are many types of exfoliating mitts available. Here are some things to look for when choosing one:

Fiber type

Exfoliating mitts are often made from natural fibers like sisal, hemp, or loofah. Some use synthetics like microfiber or nylon. Sisal is likely the most common - it comes from the leaves of the agave plant. It's very durable and provides medium scrubbing action.

Weave

How tightly woven the fibers are affects scrubbing power. Loosely woven mitts are more delicate and gently remove dead cells. More tightly woven provides heavier physical exfoliation. Choose according to your skin type - sensitive skin benefits from a more loosely woven mitt.

Scrubbing surface

Some mitts have exfoliating fibers on one side, while others are scrubby on both sides. Double-sided offers more versatility.

Size

Mitts come in different sizes, with some larger ones made to fit over both hands. This allows you to thoroughly scrub your entire back. Opt for a size you can easily manipulate.

Special features

Some exfoliating mitts include extra design features like a hand strap for optimal grip, a hanging loop for drying, antimicrobial protection, or an inner sponge layer for holding soap. Decide if any extra features are important to you.

Price

Inexpensive exfoliating mitts are available for $5 or less, while more high-end spa-quality options with extra features can run $20 and up. Mid-range options are around $10-15.

Caring for Your Exfoliating Mitt

To maximize the lifespan of your exfoliating mitt:

• Avoid excessive tugging, pulling, and twisting which can deform the mitt or cause the fibers to come loose.
• Shake off excess water after use and allow to air dry between uses to prevent mildew.
• Some mitts can be machine washed - check the label. Use mild detergent and skip the fabric softener.
• Replace every 3-4 months with regular use. The fibers become less effective over time.
• Some mitts come with an antibacterial treatment, but you can periodically disinfect with rubbing alcohol or a gentle bleach solution.
• Store in a dry area out of direct sunlight when not in use.

Precautions When Using an Exfoliating Mitt

While exfoliating mitts provide many benefits, a few precautions include:

• Avoid using on sensitive areas like the face, chest, and genitals which can be easily irritated.
• Don't use on sunburned or broken skin which can be further inflamed.
• Rinse thoroughly after use to remove any lingering scrub particles.
• Moisturize after exfoliating - fresh new skin absorbs products better.
• Avoid over-exfoliating which can cause irritation and microtears.
• Use gentle, circular motions. Aggressive scrubbing can damage skin.
• Take medication that causes photosensitivity? Avoid exfoliating before sun exposure.
• Have a condition like psoriasis or eczema? Check with your dermatologist before using an exfoliating mitt.

Exfoliating Mitt Benefits vs Exfoliating Brushes and Scrubs

While exfoliating mitts have many advantages, some other popular options like brushes and scrubs also have benefits:

Exfoliating brushes

• Often vibrate or rotate to enhance exfoliating action
• Bristles get into creases and folds
• Provide massage-like stimulation
• Need to be recharged or have batteries replaced
• Most are waterproof for use in shower

Exfoliating scrubs

• Contain exfoliating ingredients suspended in a cream or gel base
• Common abrasive ingredients are salt, sugar, coffee, beads, etc
• Highly portable and travel friendly
• Come in many enticing scents
• Provide hydrating and nourishing benefits

Exfoliating mitts have advantages like being very simple to use, no power source or batteries required, and adjustable scrubbing action based on pressure applied. They are also very economical since a mitt lasts several months with proper care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an exfoliating mitt on my face?

It's best to avoid using exfoliating mitts on the delicate skin of the face. The fibers may be too harsh and irritating and could cause microtears. Stick to chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid or an electronic cleansing brush designed for facial use.

How do I know if I'm over-exfoliating with a mitt?

Signs you may be overdoing it include redness, stinging or burning during use, tight or flaky skin after exfoliating, increased sensitivity, breakouts, and irritation of existing blemishes. Reduce frequency of use if experiencing any of these effects.

Do I still need to use body lotion if I exfoliate with a mitt?

Yes, it's very important to still apply moisturizer after using an exfoliating mitt. Exfoliation removes not only dead skin cells, but also some of the natural oils that keep skin hydrated. Replenishing moisture prevents dry, flaky skin.

How do exfoliating mitts compare to using a washcloth?

Exfoliating mitts contain fibers or bristles specifically designed to scrub away dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. A regular washcloth does not provide the same level of thorough exfoliation. However, a washcloth is very gentle for sensitive skin.

Can I use soap with an exfoliating mitt?

Yes, you can apply bar soap or liquid body wash to a wet exfoliating mitt and work it into a lather to simultaneously cleanse and exfoliate your skin. Avoid harsh soaps that contain fragrances, dyes, or alcohols which could irritate.

Do exfoliating mitts harbor bacteria?

Exfoliating mitts can harbor bacteria over time, especially with regular use in the shower. Letting them fully dry between uses, washing periodically, and replacing every few months helps prevent bacterial buildup. Using mitt styles with antibacterial properties also helps.

Exfoliate Your Body for Smoother, Brighter Skin

Using an exfoliating mitt is an easy, effective way to reveal fresh, glowing skin all over your body. The gentle scrubbing action removes dulling dead cells to unveil smoother, more radiant skin. Just be careful not to overdo it, and moisturize after each use. Add an exfoliating mitt into your regular skin care routine to enjoy revitalized, vibrant looking skin from head to toe.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.