When you are removing dead skin cells and layers from the surface of the skin, you are exfoliating. Although our skin naturally sheds dead skin cells in order to make room for new cells, sometimes dead skin cells do not shed off completely. This is why the manual or chemical exfoliation is widely recommended to prevent dry, flaky patches and clogged skin and pores.
Exfoliating can improve the skin’s look in several ways. One is by leaving the skin looking brighter, softer, supple as well as improving the effectiveness of topical skin care products by enhancing the skin absorption rate of the skin. Constant exfoliating can also help prevent clogged pores. Skin pores are little openings through which the skin release oils, debris and sweat and when clogged it can result in various acne types like white and blackheads. This can be prevented by exfoliating.
Exfoliating also increases collagen production, which is the most abundant protein in the body. Aiding that glowing vibrant skin we desire by minimizing the appearance of fine lines and related sagging looks. However, when the skin is exfoliated incorrectly, there are chances of irritation and perhaps result in trans-epidermal water loss.
CHOOSING PRODUCTS FOR EXFOLIATING
It is important to check the scope of what the body scrub is made for. Body Scrub are usually harsh than facial Scrub. So body scrubs are not to be used on the face to avoid tearing of delicate facial tissues. It is also important to use a product at a time. Meaning only one scrub type on the skin till the product is exhausted. Using different products to exfoliate can cause the damage of the skin and unforeseen effects. Hence, safe not be obsessed with using multiple skin products at a time.
WHAT WORKS BEST FOR MY SKIN TYPE?
You should know your skin type and what is best for your skin, this will minimize your risk of irritation and make it easier for you to achieve the best possible result.
Sensitive skins are recommended to using BHAs as they are less irritating than other chemical exfoliants. The Paula’s Choice exfoliant is a good example to use. This product is available for purchase at our STORE.
If your skin does not have complications, your skin is considered to be a normal skin and you can choose any method of exfoliation. Manual and Chemical exfoliation are both safe for this skin type. You may need to experiment to find out which method works best for your skin.
Dry skins can use AHAs such as Glycolic Acid. This can work through the surface layer of your skin, allowing your moisturizer to hydrate your new skin cells more effectively.
Oily skins mostly have excess of oils produced by the skin. Natural oil acts as a skin barrier but excess of it can cause the build up of impurities and other issues like breakouts. Exfoliators specifically meant for oily skin can help. For breakouts oily skin, it is recommended to just a chemical exfoliator. To prevent scrubbing on the breakouts and further causing more damage and bacteria spreads. Chemical exfoliants does not only slough away dead skin but also removes excess oil and grime by unclogging the pores.
Acne prone skin types should always opt for chemical exfoliant use acids to dissolve the glue that holds dead skin cells together without any Irritating scrubbing action. Products containing retinoids, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, lactic acid are great go too.
Exfoliation is a beneficial part of any skincare routine. With regular exfoliation your skin will look brighter, feel softer, smoother and discolored free.
References: Health-line Image Reference:L’oreal