Skin rejuvenation or exfoliation is removal of dead skin cells, the outermost and the oldest. It is an ancient technique for maintaining skin health. Today it is an important part of body treatments meted out in parlors and spas. It may be done mechanically or with the use of chemicals. Generally speaking, to exfoliating is another name for scrubbing. Mechanical exfoliating is done with the help of abrasives. It includes the use of microfiber cloths, exfoliating sheets, finely crushed apricot kernels and almond shells and a host of other abrasive materials like sponges, brushes and dried parts of fibrous plants. While pumice is good for exfoliating feet, people with dry skin should avoid exfoliating with materials that have a substantial portion of pumice. Hard exfoliating products should also be avoided by people suffering from dermatitis or eczema of any type including seborrheic dermatitis. To exfoliate with chemicals involves scrubs containing acids like salicylic, citric or glycolic acid and fruit enzymes. Products containing alpha hydroxyl acids or beta hydroxyl acids or enzymes that loosen the dead cells ‘glued’ together are also used for exfoliating dead skin. Some techniques like waxing and wet shaving are other examples of exfoliating ares covered with hair.

An exfoliating scrub is normally advertised in media for enhancing beauty, improving skin health and for giving a youthful appearance. However, scrubs are also an important part of natural skin care and also help in managing skin diseases like seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrhea is commonly referred to as dandruff, the unpleasant white flakes that fall from the scalp. In reality, seborrhea can occur in any part of the body, especially areas that are rich in sebaceous glands. The sad part is that there is no permanent cure for seborrhea. Scrubbing with mild exfoliating products can however provide temporary relief. It should be noted that seborrhea can recur.

Exfoliating skin can help for managing acne, blackheads, dry or oily skin and rough skin. By exfoliating the skin you expose the new cells that are produced in the lower layer. You can also exfoliate your skin with a variety of peels available over the counter.

Just as in the case of scrubs, you have an option to choose between mechanical peels and enzyme peels. You may also choose exfoliating bar soap. Exfoliating soaps are convenient and an easy way to get rid of dead flaky skin.

Another option is that of exfoliating cream. These mostly contain natural detergents with different ingredients such as crushed apricot kernel or almond shell for the scrubbing effect. Most of these are based on natural substances and are available in different fragrances.

If you have seborrhea you need to choose an exfoliating product with care because not all products that contain natural ingredients are created equal and some may have higher concentrations of acids. Exfoliation with harsh chemicals and steroid based products may cause further harm.