Skin exfoliators are great tools for getting rid of dead cells and increasing cell turnover, leaving skin brighter and smoother than before. But finding one suitable to your individual needs and tolerance levels is of utmost importance.
Physical scrubs or chemical exfoliators could be the ideal choice for you; both offer many advantages but work in different ways.
1. Hydrated Silica Exfoliator
Hydrated silica is an impressive multitasker that serves multiple functions in skin care products, from gentle abrasives and viscosity control agents, to helping remove impurities and reduce pores in skincare formulations.
Silica (commonly referred to as silicon dioxide) is an abundant mineral found in both sand and quartz deposits. When mixed with water, silica softens into an ideal exfoliating ingredient for exfoliation purposes.
This scrub features gentle exfoliation from silica gel and citrus limon peel powder to provide gentle physical exfoliation, perfect for those seeking chemical-free physical exfoliation without harsh chemicals. In fact, EWG’s Skin Deep database ranks this product highly for safety; with low hazard ratings and good data availability ratings. Furthermore, it’s eco-friendly and vegan!
2. AHA/BHA Exfoliator
Everyday, our skin naturally sheds dead cells to reveal healthier complexions beneath. However, as time passes this process can slow down and lead to dullness, dryness, clogged pores, fine lines and wrinkles as well as an uneven complexion. A leave-on AHA or BHA chemical exfoliant may help reveal what lies underneath.
AHAs like glycolic acid (derived from fruit extracts), lactic acid (found in dairy) and citric acid work on the surface of skin to dissolve glue that holds dead skin cells together and increase natural moisturising factors, while BHAs such as salicylic acid can penetrate pores to exfoliate away oil, blackheads and dead skin which cause breakouts and enlarged pores. Murad’s cleanser includes both AHAs and BHAs for more even and clearer complexion.
3. PHA Exfoliator
PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) could be your go-to product for clear skin: PHAs. This gentle family of acids, including gluconolactone, galactosene and lactobionic acid are less likely to cause irritation due to their larger molecular sizes and may provide much-needed relief from skin inflammation.
Similar to AHAs, these acidic solutions help exfoliate skin by loosening and removing dead cells, which helps even out tone and texture and make skincare products more effective.
Shainhouse suggests adding PHA products like cleanser, moisturizer or toner into your daily regimen gradually–smear it on three separate nonconsecutive days before going all in on it at once. Doing this may prevent excess inflammation if you have sensitive skin or are dealing with conditions like rosacea or keratosis pilaris.
4. Salicylic Acid Exfoliator
Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid, helps balance oil flow, shed dead skin cells and clear clogged pores. It’s an invaluable asset in treating blemish-prone complexions as its deep penetrating abilities allow it to dissolve sebum which causes blackheads and pimples.
Mudgil states that exfoliation can also help to diminish acne scars and marks as well as redness caused by spots, but caution must be exercised not to overexfoliate as overdoing it could result in dryness or irritation.
Use this powder cleanser, which features gentle exfoliating properties derived from rice phytic acid and salicylic acid to effectively minimize pores while polishing away impurities for baby-smooth skin. Apply once or twice daily and follow with an appropriate moisturizer for best results.
5. Lactic Acid Exfoliator
Lactic acid is a gentle alpha hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates and improves skin’s texture, especially for those with dry or sensitive complexions. Lactic acid also boosts cell turnover rates while minimising hyperpigmentation + dark spots as well as helping fade age spots.
Lactic acids can be found in several CeraVe products at low concentrations, where they’re most effective. You can also opt for lactic acid peels for an intense exfoliation experience; however, remember not to combine multiple acids such as glycolic acid in one day as this could increase irritation risk.
As with any acid-based exfoliant, it is critical to use sunscreen regularly throughout the day in order to safeguard skin from UV damage. Furthermore, patch-test any new product – acid or not – prior to full face application.
