Exfoliation is the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. Removal of dead skin cells reveals fresh and youthful looking skin that radiates with an irresistible glow. Exfoliation also stimulates natural skin regeneration. You can either use a chemical or physical exfoliant.
A chemical exfoliation utilizes alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) or enzymes to loosen the glue-like substance that holds dead skin cells together. A physical exfoliant also referred to as a ‘manual exfoliant’ makes use of tools, liquid, gel or scrub.
BENEFITS OF EXFOLIATING
1. It fades age spots
2. It is important because it helps to break down some top surface cells that contribute to skin dullness, dryness and aged skin appearance,
3. It makes fine lines and wrinkles look less visible
4. It allows for better absorption of moisturizers, antioxidants and collagen-boosting serums
5. It unclogs your pores
6. It minimizes pore size and superficial scars
7. It helps to brighten your complexion
8. it improve the skin's texture, integrity, and keep the skin looking plump, tight, and young
TYPES OF EXFOLIANTS
° Physical/Mechanical Exfoliants
° Chemical Exfoliants
° Combination Exfoliants
Here we’ll explain what each one is in more detail, as well as help you decide which one will work best for you.
1. Physical exfoliants
This is also known as mechanical exfoliators, these include products and treatments like face scrubs, polishes, cleansing brushes, microdermabrasion and dermaplaning that lift and remove dead cells and dirt with friction.
Key ingredients: Abrasive particles or granules such as fine sugar or salt, ground nut shells, cornmeal or beads made from a natural ingredient like silica or jojoba.
2. Chemical Exfoliants: This is the use of chemicals to break down the surface skin cells. Highly sensitive and acne-prone skin responds very well to chemical exfoliants, as they are less likely to cause irritation. Chemical exfoliants with glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid are good.
Glycolic acid stimulates collagen production and trigger other anti-aging pathways. salicylic acid targets oil glands, which can improve acne.
The most common chemical exfoliant types are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAS) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAS).
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAS)
AHAS are among the most common types of light chemical peels. the aha family of acids is derived from natural sources, such as fruit, milk or sugar. Two of the most widely used in skin care products today are glycolic acid and lactic acid aha-based facial exfoliators are good for people with oily skin.
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAS)
BHAS offers a light chemical peel. in general, bhas (the most common type being salicylic acid) are a more effective treatment for acne-prone skin. they are a synthetic derivative that comes from the same source as aspirin
3. Combination exfoliants
They are rinse-off exfoliators that contain both physical and chemical exfoliating ingredients in one product in balanced concentrations.
Key ingredients: A mix of one or more physical and chemical exfoliant ingredients
HOW TO EXTOLIATE YOUR FACE
1. Start by washing your face: Wash your face using warm water and a facial cleanser. Do not pat dry after washing face.
2. Get your face scrub: Squeeze a small amount of your exfoliant into the palm of your hand.
3. Massage your scrub in circular motions: Gently apply the scrub to your face and move it around in circular motions so the granules reach your nose, forehead, jaw, and area around your eyes, removing dead cells from your skin’s surface. Do this for thirty seconds.
4. Rinse: Rinse your face with warm water after exfoliating.
5. Pat dry: Use a clean towel and pat your face dry. After exfoliating, you’ll find your face feels extra bright and smooth.
6. Follow up with other skincare products: You can follow up with your moisturizer, sunscreen with a low SPF, and face mask.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU EXFOLIATE?
Physical exfoliants can be applied two to three times per week in the morning or evening after cleansing.
Chemical exfoliants can be applied once a week, morning or evening after cleansing for sensitive or dry skin and three times maximum for other skin types.
Combination exfoliants can be applied from once a week to daily, depending on the product's usage instructions, follow them closely for the best results