Legs are a focal point of beauty, particularly in seasons where shorts and sundresses are the ideal clothing. The health of your skin is evident. A glowing, even skin tone can reflect your inner health, as well as the effort you put into nurturing your skin's appearance. In addition to keeping a healthy diet, exfoliation and moisturizing are also key elements to maintaining healthy looking legs. Dry brushing, sugar scrubs and other exfoliators can rid your legs of dry, flaky skin. Quality moisturizers, like oils and lotions with essential oil, can leave your skin feeling soft and supple.
Exfoliation
Step 1
Wet your skin using warm water or a warm wash cloth. Ensure that your leg is soaked from ankle to hip.
Step 2
Apply the exfoliator of your choice, such as a sugar or oatmeal scrub, and massage in a circular motion. Begin at the ankle and work your way up to your hip.
Step 3
Rinse your leg thoroughly with warm water. Use the wash cloth to gently remove any leftover exfoliant.
Step 4
Apply a small amount of almond or coconut oil to your skin while still damp. Rub oil gently into your skin.
Step 5
Rinse legs with warm water. Pat your legs dry with a clean towel, but do not rub dry. Rubbing will remove too much of the oil that keeps your skin moist and offers protection after exfoliation.
Dry Brushing
Step 1
Dry brush your legs. According to "Beauty: The New Basics" by Rona Berg, dry brushing is an excellent way to exfoliate and moisturize your skin while improving circulation. Use a natural fiber brush and brush dry your legs beginning with your feet.
Step 2
Brush your feet from your toes to heels in the direction of your heels. Move up to your lower legs and brush them in six to 12 long, quick strokes toward your knees.
Step 3
Scrub your knees in a circular motion. Move next to your thighs and brush them in the same circular motion.
Step 4
Rinse your body with warm water and pat dry. Apply moisturizer if needed. Dr. Cynthia Bailey of Otbskincare.com recommends applying moisturizer within three minutes of toweling dry.
Tips and Warnings
- When exfoliating or dry brushing your body, your strokes should be aimed towards your heart --- upward in the case of your legs --- as it encourages circulation. When exfoliating, press gently to avoid damaging the skin. Sugar and oatmeal scrubs are simple to make at home or are readily available at drugstores. Instead of hot water, use lukewarm water to avoid over drying your skin when soaking and rinsing your legs.
- Do not dry brush at night; it can stimulate the circulatory system and potentially keep you awake. Do not apply oil to the bottoms of feet, as you may slip on hard floor surfaces.
Things You'll Need
- Warm water
- Wash cloth
- Loofah or natural fiber body brush
- Exfoliating scrub
- Moisturizer
- Almond or coconut oil
- Towel
References
- "Beauty: The New Basics"; Rona Berg; 2001
- Dr. Cynthia Bailey Skin Care: Dry Skin Care Tips
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