All About Exfoliation & Why It’s Essential for Healthy, Happy Skin
Does your skin care routine include exfoliation?
Maybe you’re unsure of proper exfoliation techniques, or haven’t heard of the many benefits of exfoliation yet. Maybe you’re not even sure what exfoliation is! If this is a new concept to you, then read on to learn the basics of skin exfoliation and what it can do for you.
What Is Exfoliation?
According to an article on Healthline, the definition of exfoliation is, “the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin using a chemical, granular substance, or exfoliating tool.”
Your skin makes new cells about every 30 days. Those old cells have to shed and go away! But sometimes your skin may need a little help to get there. If they’re not shedding naturally on their own, you might see flaky patches or develop clogged pores.
By using exfoliating products as part of a regular skin care routine, you can help your skin shed the old cells, leaving you with softer, brighter looking skin, and make it easier for skin to absorb other skin care products.
Types of Exfoliation
There are many different types of products for skin exfoliation, but it basically comes down to two different methods: chemical or physical.
Chemical methods include products with things like AHA’s ( Alpha Hydroxy Acids), and BHA’s (Beta Hydroxy Acids). AHA’s are water soluble and might be best for dry skin. AHA’s like glycolic acid can break through the surface layers to enable moisturizers to get to your new skin cells and hydrate them. AHA’s can also help with age spots, scars, fine lines, and uneven skin tones.
BHA’s are oil soluble and can go deep into hair follicles where they can dry excess oils. One common BHA is salicylic acid and is often used for treating acne, redness, and inflammation. BHA’s tend to soothe irritated skin, like with sun damage. But if your skin is inflamed from things like Eczema and Rosacea it’s best to check with your dermatologist for specific treatments that are designed just for you.
Physical methods of exfoliation include things like cleansing scrubs, exfoliating mitts, brushes and loofahs. These types of exfoliants are easy to use at home and facial scrubs can be homemade as well.
Tools
Handheld brushes with cleanser are one of the easiest tools for starting out. They are easy to purchase and can be used with a cleanser you already have. Making circular motions with gentle pressure is one simple technique to shed dead skin cells. Then wash your face with warm water and remember to always clean your brush or exfoliating mitt when you’re done!
Motorized cleansing brushes are the next step up. Some have multiple vibration modes and most have soft silicone bristles. You should take it easy with this type of tool and be careful not to scrub too aggressively though. The motorized brush is already doing the scrubbing for you.
Textures
Using different types of cleansers for your face and your body is a good rule of thumb. Your face is much more sensitive so don’t use a scrub that’s meant for your body on your face.
Let your skin be your guide when choosing types of exfoliation. Even on your face, you might have both dry and oily places on your skin, so pay attention to what you need. If your skin changes, don’t be afraid to change your products along with it.
When choosing a type of exfoliation product, consider the right one for your skin type. Some are softer and some are more gritty. Some may come as a mask or as a peel and some are used more as a face wash and require less time to sit on the skin.
Over exfoliating can be damaging to your skin. You need to know your skin type to be able to make the best choice for all of your skin care routine products. If you’re not sure what type of skin you have, you can take a quiz here to help you find out.
Benefits of Regular Exfoliation
If you’re still wondering if skin exfoliation is for you, consider the benefits of including proper exfoliation techniques as part of a regular skin care routine.
Here’s just a few examples of the benefits of skin exfoliation:
Removes dead skin cells to help reveal fresher, younger-looking skin
Improves skin texture which results in smoother, more even skin tones
Allows skin care products to penetrate deeper and work more effectively
Reduces the occurrence of acne and blackheads by unclogging pores
Supports firmer, more resilient skin by stimulating collagen production
Brightens the complexion, reducing dullness and promoting a radiant glow
How to Exfoliate Properly
Once you’ve determined your skin type and considered the options for skin exfoliation, it’s time to put it to work. Adding a proper exfoliation technique is important and knowing when and how to do it will provide the best results.
If you’re using a physical exfoliant, aiming for about 30 seconds of scrubbing should be adequate before rinsing. Be mindful to avoid sensitive areas like the skin around the eyes. For a chemical exfoliant, read the instructions and follow the directions to ensure the best results. Remember to use your sunscreen after exfoliating during the day too! Your new skin cells will be more sensitive to sun damage.
If your skin is oily, you may be able to gently exfoliate daily, but for most skin types, limit exfoliation to once or twice a week. Within your routine, a freshly cleansed face is the perfect time for exfoliation. It doesn’t matter if it’s a part of your morning or evening routine. For example, if your face tends to be dull when you wake up, then use an exfoliant to brighten your skin. If you prefer to use one after removing make-up and environmental debris from the day, then use it at night. Either way, be sure to follow up with a good moisturizer and any serums your skin needs.
DIY Facial Exfoliants
Making your own facial exfoliants at home is pretty easy. Use a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil for a base, then add other ingredients like brown sugar or coffee grounds to give it some “grit” to help shed the dead skin cells. Common kitchen items like yogurt, finely ground oats, and raw honey are a few more examples used in homemade facial exfoliants. You can find directions on how to make them here on Healthline.
Your skin is vulnerable to all kinds of things. Age, hormones, other skin products, and the sun are just a few that come to mind. And all the while, your skin is working on replenishing and regenerating healthy cells all by itself. Most of the time it’s doing exactly what it’s supposed to do. But honestly, in today's world, it could use a little help.
Including proper exfoliation techniques as part of a regular skin care routine can leave your skin feeling healthier, smoother, and glowing!
