Exfoliating 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 exfoliation: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliation involves scrubbing or rubbing using a product, such as grainy scrubs, dry brushes, netted bath mitts, and loofahs. Chemical exfoliation relies on chemicals to break the bonds between dead skin cells in order to loosen and remove them). Chemical exfoliants contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), polyhydroxy acids, or enzymes). AHAs are water-soluble acids derived from plants and work well as natural exfoliants. Glycolic acid is the most popular AHA in skincare, gently dissolving bonds between cells while allowing your skin to stay moisturized.
Physical exfoliation is easy, inexpensive, and accessible, and can be done at home with a homemade scrub or a product like a cleansing scrub, body brush, or loofah. However, if performed incorrectly, physical exfoliation can sometimes irritate the skin and may result in transepidermal water loss. Chemical exfoliation can also irritate the skin if done incorrectly, so its important to see a dermatologist or other healthcare provider for guidance if youre unsure about how to incorporate a chemical product into your routine.
In cosmetology, exfoliation is the removal of dead skin cells and built-up dirt from the skins surface). The term comes from the Latin word exfoliare (to strip off leaves) ). Chemical exfoliation methods, also known as chemical peeling, utilize chemical substances to remove dead skin cells from the face). The peeling procedure is a valuable method for aged skin, photoaging, acne scars, and melasma, and should be performed by a dermatologist.
In summary, exfoliating 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 exfoliation: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliation involves scrubbing or rubbing using a product, while chemical exfoliation relies on chemicals to break the bonds between dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliants contain AHAs, BHAs, polyhydroxy acids, or enzymes. Exfoliation can be done at home with a homemade scrub or a product like a cleansing scrub, body brush, or loofah, but its important to be careful not to irritate the skin. Chemical peeling is a valuable method for aged skin, photoaging, acne scars, and melasma, and should be performed by a dermatologist.
