Nothing a baby washcloth can't handle!
The Wonderbar, as you all know by now, is a cleanser, toner and exfoliate. If used on a regular basis, with compatible products, there is really no need to add much more than a very basic moisturizer (if needed) and a good physical block to your routine. Problems can arise if you complicate things with other products that can be too much for your skin while using the Wonderbar. As an example, if you try to exfoliate your skin, especially with a harsh scrub, it can be too much. During the dry phase in the first 2-3 weeks, it would seem that in order to speed things up, you should scrub the dead skin off. However, doing so is not recommended. With patience you will see that the dryness passes and the dead skin comes off on its own. Later on, it can become appropriate on occasion to gently exfoliate once every two weeks or so, but not until you are fully adjusted to the bar.
Exfoliation is the removal of the oldest dead skin cells that cling to the skin’s outermost surface. It is an important part of both facials and body treatments. When done correctly, exfoliation leaves the skin feeling smoother and fresher looking. It also aids in the penetration of expensive facial products like antioxidant and vitamin serums.
The following are two ways to exfoliate your skin:
1) Mechanical- the dead cells are physically rubbed off with an abrasive. Examples include salt scrubs, jojoba beads, washcloths and facial loofahs.
2) Chemical- Enzymes or acids are used to help slough the dead cells away. Examples include AHAs, BHAs, Retin-A and different fruit enzymes.
As mentioned above, you can try one of the two ways and have great results once adjusted. Using a baby washcloth is my personal favorite…it’s very gentle, not to mention inexpensive. We hear from many clients that the Clarisonic works well too!
As for Chemical exfoliation, you can try to introduce a product while making sure you pay close attention and look for any adverse reactions such as redness or breakouts…if this occurs, then stop. Some retinol devotees, in an effort to keep all of their anti-aging weapons in their arsenal, have found a way to use the product with their Wonderbar and are thrilled with the results. So, you never know how your skin will react, but keep experimenting to find what works best for you. You can also email us for tips on tweaking your routine!
