Exfoliation is removal of the dead skin cell on the skin’s outermost surface to help slow down the rate of aging leaving your skin smooth and radiant. Exfoliating helps prevent pores from getting clogged with dead skin. How one should exfoliate & the products to use depends on your skin type. Experts recommend that the finer the exfoliating grains, the better. Gentle beads, dissolving powders and rice bran are all good. According to Sarah Chapman ‘When you notice that skin looks dull and doesn’t reflect light properly, it is often a buildup of dead cells – then it is time to exfoliate’.
Exfoliates should be used at least once a week for people with sensitive skin and 2-3 times a week for people who don’t have sensitive skin. If you have skin problems such as eczema or dermatitis we recommend consulting your dermatologist/doctor to find out the best exfoliating method for your skin type.
Here are a few tips on how to effectively exfoliate your face. For best result exfoliate your skin at night. Be gentle while exfoliating and do not use exfoliant on delicate areas such as under the eyes. Use exfoliators that are suitable for your skin type.. Try to avoid over-exfoliation as it may cause dryness, redness, broken capillaries, and flakiness. Moisturize your face after exfoliating.
Types of exfoliators
Chemical exfoliators– these are products which contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acid (BHA). These products target deeper skin layers by dissolving the dead skin cells rather than getting rid of them via scrubbing. Chemical exfoliators are widely used by people with enlarged pores/fine lines, dry skin or sun damaged skin. They’re mostly dermatologist recommended type of exfoliators and are mostly in liquid form.
Mechanical exfoliators: These are mainly scrubs and exfoliators that contain grainy particles or exfoliating beads that get rid of dead skin cells. Grainy exfoliators are great for people with normal to combination skin types while the powdered exfoliators are perfect for people with very sensitive skin & skin type that is prone to breakouts & spots. Always apply these exfoliators in a gentle & circular manner.
Enzyme exfoliators: These are natural enzyme-based exfoliators with ingredients such as papaya enzyme, pineapple enzyme or rice enzyme. Majority of these enzymes are extracted from fruits and they have the ability to digest the upper dead skin cells leaving your skin radiant and plump. Enzyme exfoliators are recommended for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
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