Which Exfoliator is Right For Your Skin Type?
Exfoliation is touted as the key to healthy-looking skin, and, well, it is! Regardless of your age, your complexion will benefit from this skincare step. The kind of exfoliation that is best for you will depend on your skin type, preferred usage, desired results, and current routine.
You can exfoliate two ways: physically and chemically. The second option may sound rather harsh to you, but it can actually be the gentler of the two options. I will further explain below.
First, let's take a look at the ways you can integrate a physical exfoliant into your skincare routine and the benefits of this technique.
Physical Exfoliation: What Is It?
A physical exfoliant is any product that requires a rubbing or scrubbing motion, hence the term 'physical exfoliation'. This could be a scrub that you apply with your hands. Or it could be a tool that does the scrubbing action for you, like a battery-powered facial brush.
Some of the most common physical exfoliants include:
Konjac and loofah sponges
Flannels and high-tech cleansing cloths
Physical exfoliants work on the uppermost layers of skin. These products speed up the natural exfoliation rate and help to keep skin soft, smooth, and healthy.
You might opt for a physical exfoliant if you want something that:
Won't interact with the ingredients in the rest of your skincare routine
Stimulates circulation (which is known to help drain lymph and reduce facial puffiness)
Clarisonic Cleansing Facial Brush
Chemical Exfoliation: What Is It?
Most of you are familiar with physical exfoliants, but not everyone has heard of chemical exfoliants. The latter are based on mild acids or enzymes. When these ingredients are applied to skin, they gently dissolve the 'glue' that cements dead skin cells together.
Common chemical exfoliants include:
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)- i.e. glycolic acid lactic acid
Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs)- i.e. salicylic acid
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)
Unlike physical exfoliants, products containing acids require no scrubbing and work gradually. These are great benefits for problem skin, whether it's prone to acne, eczema, rosacea, dryness, or sensitivity. This is why chemical exfoliants can in fact be milder and gentler than scrubs and the like.
Once applied, a chemical exfoliant not only works on the top layers of skin. The chemical can also penetrate and work on layers not yet visible to the eye. This creates a long-lasting increase in your natural exfoliation rate.
You might try a chemical exfoliant if you want something that:
Requires no scrubbing (great for problem skin types)
Continues to work after application
Works more deeply than a physical exfoliant, i.e. offers longer-lasting results
Helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles
Whether you choose a physical or chemical exfoliant, both will help your skin slough more quickly on its own. The skin-cell turnover rate declines with age, which is why exfoliation is vital to keep skin looking fresh, healthy, and youthful.
Love yourself. Love your skin!
