Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin using a chemical, granular substance, or exfoliation tool). There are two types of exfoliants: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliants require manual scrubbing or rubbing and include cleansing scrubs, body brushes, and loofahs. Chemical exfoliants use acids to dissolve dead skin cells and debris. Chemical exfoliants are preferred by dermatologists because they tend to be less harsh on the skin. Some common chemical exfoliants include alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) .
Benefits of exfoliation include removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and improving skin texture. However, if performed incorrectly, physical exfoliation can sometimes irritate the skin and result in transepidermal water loss. Chemical exfoliation can also irritate the skin if done incorrectly).
Materials used for physical exfoliation include cleansing scrubs, exfoliating mitts, dry brushes, loofahs, pumice stones, and microneedling or micro derma rollers. DIY scrubs can also be made using ingredients like coffee grounds, sugar, finely ground sea salt, cinnamon, honey, and oats.
Chemical exfoliation methods use alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid), beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid), polyhydroxy acids (lactobionic acid, gluconolactone, and galactose), or enzymes (trypsin or collagenase) to weaken cell adhesion and remove dead skin cells).
In conclusion, exfoliation is a process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin using either physical or chemical exfoliants. It has several benefits, but it should be performed correctly to avoid skin irritation. Materials used for physical exfoliation include cleansing scrubs, exfoliating mitts, dry brushes, loofahs, pumice stones, and microneedling or micro derma rollers. Chemical exfoliation methods use alpha-hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, polyhydroxy acids, or enzymes to remove dead skin cells.
