Everything You Need to Know About Using Exfoliating Gloves in the Shower

The Complete Guide to Using Exfoliating Gloves in the Shower

Exfoliating your skin is an important part of any skincare routine. It removes dead skin cells, evens out skin texture, and allows moisturizers to better penetrate. While you may already exfoliate your face, using an exfoliating glove in the shower can take body exfoliation to the next level. Keep reading to learn all about the benefits of exfoliating gloves, how to use them properly, and tips for getting the smoothest skin possible.

What Are Exfoliating Gloves?

Exfoliating gloves are gloves worn in the shower that gently remove dead skin cells through friction. The gloves have a textured surface that provides light abrasion to slough off dull skin. They are typically made from materials like loofah, microfiber, terry cloth, or exfoliating cloths.

Exfoliating gloves come in many styles to suit different needs. Full gloves cover the hands and wrists. Fingerless gloves allow you to easily wash the palms and in-between fingers. Half gloves with exposed fingertips provide extra scrubbing power. The level of texture also varies from lightly textured for sensitive skin to very abrasive.

Benefits of Using Exfoliating Gloves

Here are the many ways that using exfoliating gloves can improve the health and appearance of your skin:

• Remove dead skin - Exfoliating gloves buff away dull dead cells on the skin's surface.
• Prevent ingrown hairs - Helps keep pores clear and prevent ingrown hairs on the legs and underarms.
• Smooth rough patches - Sloughs off rough, flaky skin on elbows, knees and heels.
• Brighten skin - Getting rid of dead skin reveals the newer, brighter skin underneath.
• Improve circulation - Friction from the gloves improves blood flow to the skin.
• Allow moisture to absorb better - With dead skin removed, moisturizers can soak in faster.
• Help reduce acne - Exfoliating unclogs pores and clears away excess oil.
• Make skin softer - Regular use leaves skin feeling smoother and softer.
• Even out skin tone - Removes layers of pigmented, dull skin cells.
• Enhance self-tanner application - Take off dead skin so self-tanner absorbs evenly.

Choosing the Best Exfoliating Gloves

With so many exfoliating gloves on the market, how do you decide what type is right for you? Here are a few tips for selecting the perfect gloves for your needs:

Level of Texture

Consider your skin type and sensitivity. Very abrasive gloves work well for those with thick, rough skin like feet. However, sensitive areas like the face and delicate skin types are best with lightly textured gloves. Those new to exfoliating may want to start with gentler gloves.

Style

Full gloves provide the most coverage for exfoliating arms and legs. Fingerless let you easily scrub hands and toes while keeping nails free. Half gloves offer precision scrubbing of rough spots.

Material

Loofah is very gentle. Terry cloth has soft scrubbing power. Microfiber has exfoliating fibers woven in. Exfoliating cloths have an abrasive side. Try different materials to find your preference.

Price

Inexpensive plastic gloves may not last as long. Higher priced gloves tend to be more durable and comfortable. But decent gloves can be found for under $10.

Read Reviews

Checking online reviews can reveal how effective gloves are and whether they have quality construction that lasts through repeated use.

How to Use Exfoliating Gloves

Follow these tips to properly use exfoliating gloves for the best results:

• Wet gloves before use. Putting them on when dry can snag skin.
• Use gentle, circular motions. Avoid harsh back and forth rubbing.
• Focus on rough areas like heels, elbows, and knees.
• Keep nails smooth to prevent scratches from fingerless gloves.
• Rinse thoroughly after each use to wash away dead skin.
• Pat dry after showering to prevent irritation.
• Sanitize regularly by washing with mild soap or boiling.
• Replace every 1-2 months when gloves lose scrubbing power.

Precautions When Using Exfoliating Gloves

While exfoliating gloves provide many benefits, they do come with some precautions:

• Too frequent use can cause skin irritation and microtears.
• Over-exfoliating can make skin dry and sensitive.
• Not recommended for those with eczema or extremely dry skin.
• Should not be used on sunburned or windburned skin.
• Take care when exfoliating delicate areas like the face.
• Discontinue use if skin becomes painful or inflamed.

To prevent reactions, start by only using the gloves 1-2 times per week. Gauge your skin's tolerance and increase frequency gradually if needed. Be extra gentle on thin or irritated skin.

Tips for the Smoothest Skin with Exfoliating Gloves

Follow these tips in conjunction with exfoliating gloves to reveal your smoothest, softest skin:

Shave Before Exfoliating

Shaving right before using the exfoliating gloves allows you to remove dead skin for a closer shave. Just be extra gentle on freshly shaved skin.

Use Warm Water

Warm water opens pores to allow dead skin cells to be whisked away more easily. Cooler water won't provide the same deep clean.

Exfoliate Before Shaving

Sloughing off dead skin first can help raise hairs and prevent ingrown hairs when shaving right after.

Hydrate Afterward

Apply a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer after exfoliating while skin is still damp. This prevents dryness or irritation.

Switch Directions

Go against the grain of hair growth first to lift hairs. Follow by scrubbing in circular motions with the grain avoid irritation.

Use Gentle Cleansers

Pair exfoliating gloves with a mild body wash without sulfates, fragrances, or chemicals that can strip skin.

Upgrade Your Razor

Exfoliating reveals new skin for the closest shave. Use a high-quality razor with multiple blades to gently shave smooth skin.

Scrub Feet Before Pedicure

Sloughing off calluses with exfoliating gloves preps feet for getting the best results from a pedicure.

The Best Exfoliating Gloves You Can Buy

These top-rated exfoliating gloves deliver impressive results. Check out the options to find your perfect match:

Bodvera Exfoliating Bath Gloves

These affordable scrubbing gloves have texture on one side for gentle exfoliation. The smooth side allows for lathering up with soap. Available in multiple colors.

MUCHOO Exfoliating Shower Glove

Terry cloth on the backside and textured microfiber on the front combine to polish away dead skin. Fits comfortably with an adjustable wrist strap.

Evridwear Exfoliating Gloves

Made from aloe-infused microfiber for spa-like exfoliation. Machine washable for easy cleaning between uses. Sold in a 2-pack.

Aquis Exfoliating Scrub Gloves

These luxury exfoliating gloves are made from quick-drying Aquitex fabric that never holds odors. Gentle enough for daily use.

My Solemate Exfoliating Foot Scrubber

Specifically designed for feet, this slip-on scrubber has multiple layers of texture to smooth away calluses and rough skin.

Skincare Solutions Exfoliating Bath Gloves

Natural loofah fibers gently buff without irritation. These affordable gloves come in sets of 5 with a free foot scrubber brush.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you exfoliate with scrub gloves?

Limit exfoliating to 2-3 times per week to avoid irritation. Those with sensitive skin may only need to exfoliate weekly. Gauge your skin's needs.

Should you exfoliate before or after shaving?

Doing both can help! Exfoliate first to lift hairs and have a smooth surface for shaving. Exfoliating again after gently removes dead skin for silky legs.

What's the difference between loofah and exfoliating gloves?

Loofah is a natural material that provides very gentle scrubbing. Exfoliating gloves often have synthetic added textures to create more intense exfoliation.

Can you use exfoliating gloves on your face?

Yes but be very gentle. Look for smooth, soft gloves designed specifically for the delicate facial skin. Avoid scrubbing too hard.

Should you moisturize after using exfoliating gloves?

Yes, it's important to apply moisturizer after exfoliating while skin is still damp. This prevents dryness or irritation from the sloughing.

Get Touchably Soft Skin with Exfoliating Gloves

Using exfoliating gloves in the shower can take your skincare routine to the next level. The right gloves will safely whisk away dead skin cells, reveal smooth and glowing skin, and remove rough patches. Just be careful not to overdo it. Pair gloves with plenty of moisturizer to restore hydration. With a little trial and error, you'll be hooked on the incredibly soft feeling exfoliating gloves provide.

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.