.jpg)
What is exfoliation?
Exfoliation is any process that takes off the top
layers of skin cells before they come off naturally. Exfoliation is the act of
removing dead skin cells from the outer layer of your skin. Plus, it also kills
dirt and bacteria at the same time. This keeps our skin smooth, soft and
glowing. Although these cells will eventually fall off on their own, a scrub or
exfoliant can help clear them away quickly, leaving your skin looking lighter,
brighter, and more youthful. You can use chemical or physical exfoliation
methods to remove old cells. It prevents clogged pores and exposes the fresh,
healthy skin underneath.
The biggest advantage of physical exfoliation is ease of
access. You can do this at home with just a muslin cloth or a do-it-yourself
(DIY) scrub. It also gives instant results. If done incorrectly, physical
exfoliation can sometimes irritate your skin and result in transepidermal water
loss. Applying humectant oils or serums can help reduce irritation and retain
moisture.
If you choose to exfoliate, it's important to do it safely
so it doesn't damage your skin or worsen redness or acne.
Benifits of exfoliation:
- Removes dead skin cells
- Helps prevent clogged pores that can cause blemishes and breakouts
- Brightens skin and improves its appearance
- Stimulates blood flow to flush out toxins
- Prolonged exfoliation can increase collagen production to promote skin elasticity
How to use exfoliate
- Choose an exfoliation method that suits your skin type.
- If you use a scrub or chemical exfoliator, apply the product gently using small, circular motions. Do this for about 30 seconds, and then wash off with lukewarm water.
- If you use a brush or sponge, use small light strokes. Exfoliating can dry out the skin.
- Apply moisturizer immediately after exfoliation to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
Note:
- Never exfoliate if you have open wounds or if your skin is sunburned.
- Be careful not to exfoliate too much, as this can make the skin red and irritated.
How to exfoliate skin
There are two primary ways to exfoliate your skin:
1. Mechanical Exfoliation
Mechanical exfoliation, also called physical exfoliation, uses a tool (brush, sponge, scrub) to physically remove dead skin cells. It is typically done on wet skin, though not all mechanical exfoliation should be done on damp or wet skin. One way to get rid of dead skin cells on dry skin is through dry brushing - a mechanical exfoliation technique that has gained recent popularity. Dry brushing requires a soft brush that's run repeatedly over dry skin to slough off dead cells.
You can exfoliate any part of your body, although experts recommend using more gentle tools and ingredients for your face and neck than the skin on the rest of your body. If your skin becomes irritated or starts to break out after trying a new product, stop using it.
For example, if you choose an exfoliating face wash, avoid harsh ingredients like crushed fruit pits and peels – unless they're very finely ground. Larger particles can be highly abrasive and cause 'micro' tears in the skin which damages the skin barrier.
2. Chemical Exfoliation
Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals instead of friction to remove the top layers of skin. The purpose of a chemical exfoliant is to dissolve dead skin cells rather than remove them, significantly reducing the chance of friction injuries. Some examples of common acids used for chemical exfoliation are:
💠Glycolic Acid (AHA)
Glycolic acid is an exfoliant that naturally occurs in plants including sugar
cane and citrus fruits.
💠Lactic Acid (AHA)
A sensitive skin hero, lactic acid is the gentler, yet effective, exfoliator of
the acids group.
💠Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Salicylic acid is more oil-soluble than AHAs. This means while it exfoliates
the surface of the skin, it also gets down deeper and unclogs pores, removing
the buildup of sebum and impurities.
💠Fruit Enzymes
Enzymes found in some fruits and berries break down keratin proteins attached
to dead cells to reveal the fresher, brighter skin below.
The goal of chemical exfoliation or chemical peels is to leave the new skin cells underneath untouched.