Skin exfoliators help remove dead cells to reveal clearer and brighter-looking skin. It is important that when selecting either physical or chemical exfoliation products for yourself and your needs.
Physical exfoliants include face scrubs with gritty textures, or cloth or sponge exfoliators such as konjac sponges or loofahs. You may also find natural scrubs such as cranberry extract or Icelandic volcanic sand available.
1. Removes Dead Skin Cells
Skin regenerates itself naturally with new cells, but older ones may rise to the surface and form flaky patches. Regular exfoliation helps clear away these dead cells for fresher, brighter skin to emerge beneath.
Skin can be exfoliated either physically with scrubs, body brushes and loofahs or chemically with products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid – gentler products which help dissolve bonds holding dead cells together so they’re easier to slough off.
Exfoliation should only be done twice every week or as directed by your dermatologist or esthetician, with a physical or chemical exfoliant suitable to your skin type and type.
2. Clears Pores
Chemical exfoliants work to dissolve dead skin cells by breaking them down with alpha hydroxy acids (such as glycolic, lactic and mandelic acids) and beta hydroxy acids (such as salicylic acid for acne treatment), polyhydroxy acids such as lactobionic acid or gluconolactone or even fruit enzymes.
Chemical exfoliators can help clear out pores, diminishing their appearance and preventing future enlargement. You can also try overnight glycolic products as an overnight treatment that works while you sleep.
3. Makes Skin Smoother
Exfoliation does more than remove dead skin cells and unclog pores; it also enhances your face’s texture by eliminating dead cells that cover its surface, allowing other skincare products to work more effectively against other problems.
Though exfoliation can irritate the skin, too much exfoliation should not occur. Exfoliate two or three times weekly using an appropriate method that suits your skin type and concerns; for sensitive skin opt for exfoliating scrubs with less coarse grains; while oily/acne-prone individuals should try chemical exfoliants like BHAs and salicylic acid to remove excess oil and refine complexion; dry skinned individuals could try enzyme-based exfoliators instead.
4. Prevents Acne
Face exfoliators can help prevent acne by clearing away dulling cells that may clog pores and create breeding grounds for bacteria, leading to breakouts. Plus, regular exfoliation can fade the look of dark spots caused by past blemishes.
Before adding exfoliation products to your regimen, take time to understand both your skin type and concerns. Physical scrubs (think brushes and scrubs) require manual rubbing which may irritate sensitive skin while chemical exfoliants dissolve dead cell glue more naturally by dissolving its bonds with cells sloughing off more naturally. Look for water-soluble exfoliants like glycolic acid or lactic acid or oil-soluble ones like salicylic acid to best match with your needs and target concerns.
Care must also be taken not to over-exfoliate, which can strip away the protective barrier on skin and lead to irritation, dryness and inflammation. Therefore, start with lower concentrations of exfoliating acids before gradually increasing them over time.
5. Reduces Wrinkles
Exfoliation is an integral component of an effective skin care routine, helping remove dead skin cells that build up and give your complexion an unhealthy look. Furthermore, exfoliation allows moisturizers and other products you use more easily penetrate the skin so they can work more effectively for you.
Chemical exfoliants use acids or enzymes to gently break down the glue-like adhesion that holds dead skin cells onto your face, making them easier to wash away with water. Chemical exfoliants tend to be gentler than their physical counterparts such as scrubs which can lead to redness and irritation if overdone.
An effective exfoliant will give your skin a healthy radiance. Try selecting one containing ingredients like Vitamin C to brighten and lighten your complexion, or alternatively opt for one with exfoliating brush heads – both of these options tend to be much gentler than manual brushes!
