Exfoliation should be a part of any skincare regimen, as it removes dead skin, helps unclog pores and promotes a smoother, brighter complexion. It can be difficult to choose the right exfoliator for your skin and concerns, with so many options available. This blog will explore the benefits of exfoliating products and how to incorporate them into your daily skincare routine.
Exfoliation: Why it is Important
Exfoliation is important for healthy skin. As we age, our natural cell turnover process slows, resulting in a buildup on the skin’s surface of dead cells. This can lead to dullness, an uneven texture and even breakouts. Exfoliating products can help:
Improve Skin Texture By removing dead cells, exfoliation helps to smooth out rough patches on the skin and creates a smoother surface.
Brighten Completion Exfoliating your skin can give you a glowing complexion.
Unclog pores: Exfoliation regularly helps to prevent clogged pore, reducing acne and breakouts.
Increase Product Absorption When dead skin is removed, other skincare can penetrate more efficiently, increasing their efficacy.
Exfoliating Products
There are three types of exfoliating products: physical exfoliants (also known as chemical exfoliants), enzymatic and chemical exfoliants. Each has unique benefits, and is suitable for different skin types.
1. Physical Exfoliants
Physical exfoliants are small abrasive powders that are used to manually remove dead skin cells. These products include:
Scrubs Sugar, salt or micro beads are used to exfoliate the skin. Choose gentle products to avoid irritation.
Exfoliating Brushes or Gloves : These tools are used in conjunction with your cleanser for a manual exfoliation.
Best products:
St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot scrub: A classic scrub with walnut shell powder to gently exfoliate.
Dermalogica Daily microfoliant : A rice-based, powder which activates when it comes into contact with water to provide a mild exfoliation.
2. Chemical Exfoliants
Chemical exfoliants dissolve dead skin without scrubbing. These are more effective than physical exfoliants and are less abrasive. The most common types are:
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs).: These acids, such as glycolic and lactic acids, are water soluble and increase cell turnover on the surface of the skin.
Beta-Hydroxy Acids: Salicylic Acid is oil-soluble, and it penetrates deeper to the pores. This makes it a great choice for acne-prone and oily skin.
Best products:
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfection 2% BHA liquid exfoliant : This cult favorite helps to clear pores and smooth the skin texture.
The Ordinary 7% Glycolic Toning Solution is an affordable option for exfoliating and brightening the skin.
3. Enzymatic Exfoliants
Exfoliants that use enzymes (such as papaya, pineapple or other fruits) to dissolve dead skin cells are called enzymatic exfoliants. They are gentler, and better suited to sensitive skin types.
Best products:
Thatch the Rice Polish : A gentle powder combining rice enzymes and antioxidant-rich ingredients for exfoliation without irritation.
Farmacy Honeymoon glow AHA Resurfacing night serum: Combines AHA with natural enzymes to exfoliate and hydrate skin overnight.
Exfoliating Products: How to Include them in Your Daily Routine
Start Slowly If you are new to exfoliation and want to let your skin adjust, begin with one or two times a week.
Hydration after Exfoliation Always moisturize the skin after exfoliation to replenish its moisture barrier.
Sunscreen Is a Must Exfoliating your skin can make it more sensitive to sunlight. It is therefore important to use sunscreen every day.
(FAQs)
It depends on the skin type. Exfoliating 1-3 times a week is generally recommended. Sensitive skin requires less frequent exfoliation.
Can I use chemical and physical exfoliants together?
It’s important to be cautious. Combining the two can cause irritation. Alternate between the two.
Exfoliation can have side effects.
Exfoliating too much can lead to irritation, redness and sensitivity. Listen to your skin, and make adjustments as necessary.
Can exfoliation help acne?
Exfoliation helps to keep pores clean, which can prevent acne breakouts. BHAs are particularly effective for acne-prone and oily skin.
What should I do if my skin is sensitive?
Exfoliate your skin less often if you have sensitive or delicate skin.