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 main types of exfoliants: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliants are granular substances that act like micro scrubs to physically buff the skins surface to remove dead skin cell build-up. Examples of physical exfoliants include cleansing scrubs, body brushes, loofahs, and pumice). The biggest advantage of physical exfoliation is the ease of access, and it offers immediate results. However, if performed incorrectly, physical exfoliation can sometimes irritate the skin and may result in transepidermal water loss.
Chemical exfoliants use enzymes or acid-based solutions that dissolve the protein bonds between dead skin cells, enabling easy removal of dead skin cells). Examples of chemical exfoliants include 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) ). Dead skin cells can prevent skincare products from being absorbed by the skin, hence regular exfoliation is required to help maximize the absorption of all the beneficial ingredients needed for the skin.
Benefits of exfoliating include leaving the skin looking brighter, improving the effectiveness of topical skin care products by enhancing absorption, preventing clogged pores, resulting in fewer breakouts, and increasing collagen production, which is key to glowing, vibrant skin. Exfoliants are advertised as treatments that enhance beauty and promote a youthful and healthy appearance). However, over-exfoliation can lead to dryness, redness on the skin, and even more breakouts.
Materials used for manual exfoliation include cleansing scrubs, exfoliating mitts, dry brushes, loofahs, and pumice. Chemical exfoliation methods, also known as chemical peeling, utilize chemical substances to remove dead skin cells from the face). Examples of ingredients used in exfoliants include:
- Alpha-hydroxy acids: glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, mali...
