Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells on the skin's outermost surface. Exfoliation can be achieved mechanically or chemically, with the use of tools, scrubs or leave-on treatments.
With benefits such as healthy glowing skin, enabling better absorption of products and helping to reduce the appearance of scarring and pigmentation, discover what exfoliation is and why it's so important.
KEY FACTS
• Exfoliation is the process of removing the oldest, dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. • It’s important in aiding skin absorb active ingredients, improve blood circulation and renew skin cells. • It also encourages natural collagen production, while preventing clogged pores and dullness. • You can exfoliate either physically or chemically – with a multitude of methods within these two groups. • It’s essential to understand how and how often to exfoliate for the best results, without causing damage.
WHY EXFOLIATE?
Your skin cells undergo a natural turnover every month or so. When this occurs, the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) sheds and reveals new skin underneath (the dermis).
However, sometimes dead skin cells don't fully shed, creating the appearance of rough, dry skin, enlarged pores and dullness. You can improve your skin's tone and texture by exfoliating.
BENEFITS OF SKIN EXFOLIATION
As we age, the process of cell regeneration slows down. This means that the body does not shed skin cells or generate new ones as quickly, resulting in dull complexion.
Proper exfoliation can provide the following skin care benefits:
Fades age spots by removing dead skin cells that contain pigment.
Unclogs pores, releasing built-up oils on your skin.
Reduces pore size and the appearance of acne scars.
Renders fine lines and wrinkles less visible.
Allows for better absorption of skin care products such as moisturisers, serums, acne treatment, ect.
TYPES OF EXFOLIATION -
MECHANICAL V’s CHEMICAL
MECHANICAL EXFOLIATION
In mechanical exfoliation, dead skin cells are buffed away using products such a scrubs containing granular substances and/or devices such a brushes or gloves. Scrubs can work for some, but they can be too abrasive for others. Going to a salon for Microdermabrasion or dermaplaning would qualify as mechanical exfoliation.
CHEMICAL EXFOLIATION
Uses chemicals in the form of cleansers, toners, serums or peels to remove dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliants speed up cell turnover and unsticks the cellular glue (desmosomes) holding dead cells together in the outer layer of the skin.
There are two main types of chemical exfoliants: alpha hydroxy acids (AHA’s) and beta hydroxy acids (BHA’s).
AHA'S & BHA
QUICK COMPARISON
• There are muliple AHAs, whereas salicylic acid is the only BHA. • AHAs may be more appropriate for age-related skin concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles. • BHAs might be best if you have sensitive, acne-prone skin. • If you have more than one skin concern, you can experiment with both AHAs and BHAs.
(Be sure to incorporate products gradually to reduce irritation).
The Dermaplaning Facial, is a treatment that uses a sterile, surgical blade to remove the outermost layers of dead skin cells and vellus hairs also known as ‘Peach fuzz’. It immediately rejuvenates the skin and is effective in minimising the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars, leaving skin smooth, supple and vibrant.
The SkinBase Facial is chemical free and non-invasive yet achieves amazing results revealing younger, heathier looking skin from the very first treatment. The skin’s appearance is further improved through increased collagen & elastin production as your body produces a new layer of skin.
HOW TO EXFOLIATE SAFELY
If you choose to exfoliate, it’s important to do so safely to ensure you do not damage your skin, cause irritation or trigger acne breakouts.
Normal or combination skin types should generally exfoliate two to three times per week. If you have sensitive skin you may want to limit exfoliation to once per week.
EXFOLIATION AND YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE
The best time to use exfoliant depends on your habits and lifestyle. For example, if you wear makeup on a daily basis. Exfoliating at night would help to lift any remaining makeup particles from your skin and ensure your skin care products are penetrating properly. If your face is dull in the morning, or if you have oily skin, exfoliating in the morning mag be more beneficial.
BEFORE YOU EXFOLIATE
In advance of exfoliation, be sure your skin is not sunburnt to avoid irritation. It is best to integrate the use of sunscreen into your skin care routine prior to starting an exfoliation regimen.
If you are using a leave-on exfoliant, cleanse beforehand. It’s best to avoid cleansing afterward, so that your exfoliator has more time to work on your skin.
AFTER YOU EXFOLIATE
After removal, apply a essence and/or serum for your skin type; essence first as it is more readily absorbed, followed by a serum to lock moisture in.
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