Guidance to exfoliating

 The objective of exfoliation

Exfoliation is a crucial aspect of skin care. While dead skin cells are naturally shed in this outer layer, exfoliation assists in their removal, promoting effective cell turnover.

Exfoliation for different skin types

Drier skin types also benefit from thorough exfoliation, addressing a dull or patchy appearance and preparing the skin for hydration.

Exfoliation is advantageous for sensitive skin, but caution is needed: a gentle approach is essential for skin prone to reactivity. Research suggests that individuals with sensitive skin often have a thinner stratum corneum, making the skin more susceptible to irritation from aggressive exfoliation.

Prior to applying any exfoliant to sensitive skin, perform a patch test to ensure compatibility with your skin.

Physical and chemical exfoliation

Chemical Exfoliation

A chemical exfoliant disrupts the bonds between skin cells, expediting the shedding process. Some focus solely on the skin's surface, while others can penetrate pores, assisting in the removal of dead cells, debris, or sebum buildup.

These exfoliants work by diminishing corneocyte adhesion, breaking down interactions among surface cells. Hydroxy Acids, including Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), contribute to a mild chemical exfoliation. Water-soluble AHAs like Lactic Acid and oil-soluble BHAs like Salicylic Acid help clear congestion. Proper usage of these chemical exfoliants enhances skin texture, leaving it softer and smoother.

Physical Exfoliation

Physical exfoliants, often recognised as the most familiar type, typically exist in granular formulations. These exfoliants should be applied gently to the face or body to effectively remove dead cells from the stratum corneum—the outermost layer of the skin.

Frequency of exfoliation

iI's advisable to stick to a twice-weekly routine. Exfoliating too frequently can strip away healthy cells from the stratum corneum, potentially compromising the skin's natural protective barrier and causing dryness and irritation.