Exfoliation 101: Find out which exfoliant is best for your skin type.
Exfoliation is the process of getting rid of dead skin cells from the body. The skin usually sheds dead cells every 30 days, and exfoliation helps maintain this process. It is a common myth that exfoliation is only required for dry skin types, but that is untrue. All skin types can benefit from exfoliation to keep the skin healthy and balanced. Understanding the type and frequency of exfoliation is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. There are several exfoliation methods, including Alpha-Hydroxy Acids, Beta-Hydroxy Acids, Enzymes, and Manual Exfoliation.
Alpha-Hydroxy Acid:
AHAs, or alpha hydroxy acids, are water-soluble acids made from sugary fruits. They are a type of skincare ingredient that can work on the surface level of the skin to remove dead skin cells. AHAs are particularly effective for dry skin, as they are made up of molecules that attract water and can help improve the skin's moisture levels. AHAs are generally recommended for people with normal to dry skin types.
AHAs help stimulate collagen production, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and minimize pigmentation. They work well for dull, rough skin, hyperpigmentation or sun spots, superficial atrophic scars, and aging skin with acne or dryness.
GLYCOLIC ACID
Glycolic Acid is a natural alpha hydroxy acid that is derived from sugarcane. Glycolic Acid exfoliates and prevents the buildup of dead cells while also working to increase hydration and prevent dryness. Due to its small molecular weight, this particular AHA can penetrate deeper and faster into the skin than other AHAs. This makes it an excellent ingredient for treating skin conditions such as aging and acne. However, this increased penetration can also lead to skin irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin or those whose skin has not been adequately prepared.
LACTIC ACID
Lactic Acid is a naturally occurring substance found in milk and tomatoes. GlyMed Plus sources its lactic Acid from tomatoes. This Acid is used as an exfoliant and a moisturizer. Studies indicate that lactic Acid can increase the skin's water-retention capacity. It soothes and hydrates the skin, keeping it looking and acting younger.
Beta-Hydroxy Acid:
BHAs are oil-soluble and best suited for oily and acne-prone skin types. They fight bacteria and penetrate deep into pores to remove excess sebum, oils, and dead skin cells. Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) help fight acne by reducing inflammation and bacteria and clearing pores. They effectively treat blackheads, oily skin, enlarged pores, sebaceous filaments, and sun damage.
SALICYLIC ACID
Salicylic acid is the most common type of BHA, derived naturally from Willow Bark. Salicylic Acid is an exfoliant for its keratolytic nature as it reduces oiliness, acne, and photo-aging. Salicylic softens keratin, a protein that forms part of the skin's structure. This softening will help to loosen dry, scaly skin, making it easier to remove. Salicylic Acid helps slow down the cells' shedding inside the follicles to prevent clogging, making it ideal for acne-prone skin. It also helps to break down whiteheads and blackheads.
Enzymes:
Enzymes derived from papaya, pineapple, and pumpkin are natural exfoliators. They are also known as the "Pac Man" of the exfoliants since they eat away at dead skin cells on the skin's surface. These enzymes do not penetrate deep into the skin, making them safe and gentle for even the most sensitive and damaged skin types. This type of exfoliation allows for gentler and more frequent use without the risk of irritation or photo-sensitivity.
Enzymes can assist in various ways, such as improving exfoliation, speeding up cell turnover, and enhancing circulation without increasing inflammation.
Available in: Anti-Aging Exfoliant Masque, Chocolate Power Skin Rescue Masque, Photo Age Sunscreen 30+, Restorative Skin Clarifying Masque, Serious Action Masque, and the Ultra-Hydrating Enzyme Masque
Mechanical Exfoliation
Jojoba beads are gentle spheres, ideal for sensitive to normal skin types, and provide a mild form of mechanical exfoliation. It is one of the most gentle forms of mechanical exfoliation, making it great for sensitivity to normal skin. Available in: Anti-Aging Exfoliant Masque, Sal-X Exfoliating Cleanser
Corundum Crystals are the strongest exfoliating mineral. They are used in microdermabrasion to polish and exfoliate the skin without creating micro tears. These crystals are excellent for moderate to advanced concerns or thicker resistive skin.
Available in: Professional Micro Scrub with PC10 Granules give a mechanical exfoliation to remove dead skin cells. Available in: Serious Action Masque
