Physical or chemical exfoliation? Learn the difference and why exfoliation is so necessary.
What Is Skin Exfoliation?
Exfoliation is defined as the removal of surface dry skin cells.
How Do I Know If I Need To Exfoliate?
A simple test you can do at home to see if you have surface dry skin cells on your skin is to take a piece of clear tape and apply it to the forehead. Rub it gently and remove. Look at the tape, and if there are little pieces of flaky skin, then you need to exfoliate!
Why Is Exfoliation Important?
Exfoliation is considered one of the most important techniques that you can perform on your skin to resolve certain skin problems as well as to achieve healthy and glowing skin.
What Skin Care Problems Does Exfoliation Resolve?
Blemished skin, post breakout red/dark marks, clogged pores, hyperpigmentation, dry skin, dull/lackluster skin.
How Often Should One Exfoliate?
There are two types of exfoliants. First, a “chemical” or “acid” exfoliant does the work for you. You apply it, leave it on the skin, and it works to dissolve the dry skin cells. These exfoliants include ingredients such as AHAs and BHA, and enzymes such as Pumpkin, Papaya, and Pineapple. Try CosMedix’s Pure Enzymes CosMedix’s Defy or Priori’s Skin Renewal Cream. Second, a “physical” exfoliant means that you have to do the work. These exfoliants include facial brushes, sponges, and facial scrubs. Try Dermaogica’s Daily Microfoliant or Skin Prep Scrub. A combination of both physical and chemical exfoliants will give your skin the best results.
For sensitive skin, we suggest using the enzymes instead of the acids, as these tend to be gentler on delicate skins.
For severely sun damaged skin, a prescription Retinol is effective because it exfoliates more deeply in the skin.
Which Professional Salon Exfoliating Treatments Are Beneficial?
We offer microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and enzyme peels to give your skin a more intensive exfoliation than you can do at home.
