What can we do for you?
Everyone talks about exfoliation, but it can be confusing when trying to work out how, when, and why. Before we get stuck into the various options, it might be worth taking a minute to understand exactly what we mean by exfoliation.Skin cell cycle
The skin cell cycle for an adult last for around 28 days, although this process slows down as we get older. In order to replace old skin cells, new ones develop in the deepest layer of your skin called the basal layer. During their life cycle, they move towards the skin surface. Eventually these new skin cells become inactive and need to be replaced with the even newer cells, and so the process(cycle) continues.
If the natural skin shedding (exfoliation) process is a little slow which usually happens as we age, a skin cell traffic jam occurs. As those fresh bouncy cells try to get to centre stage, they are blocked by the old cells that refuse to budge. Now it is easy to see why skin becomes dull, uneven, and why pores become clogged with old skin, make up and pollution.
Benefits of exfoliation
Fresh complexion
Keeps fresh skin cells at the surface while removing the dry and dead ones. This results in radiant youthful skin.
Unclogs pores
Unclogging your pores helps to prevent breakouts, whiteheads and acne.
Improves skin texture
Removing dead skin smooths skin texture, improves acne scarring and hyperpigmentation
Increased absorption of other skincare
Build up of dead skin cells makes it difficult for your skin to absorb other skincare products. By unclogging your pores and getting rid of the layer of dead skin, skin care products are able to penetrate deeper and work to full potential.
In order to help clear the way for the new skin cells, there are options to help speed up this process.
Manual exfoliation
This is the removal of dead skin cell using physical means. Examples of this include dermaplaning and microdermabrasion. These are treatments carried out in a skin care clinic and should only be performed monthly in order to work with the skin cell cycle.
Shop bought scrubs are generally too abrasive, plus you may be tempted to scrub too hard. In addition to this, scrubs cannot get to the deeper skin layers, so we would not recommend them.
Chemical exfoliation
This involves the application of acids to the skin to help melt away the build up of dead skin cells.
- Chemical exfoliators to look out for are AHAs or BHAs.
- AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) are best if you have skin concerns including sun damage, uneven texture, and pigmentation.
- BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) are ideal if you are bothered with blackheads, enlarged pores and milia.
- Chemical peels are also a great in-clinic option
Talk through your options for chemical peels with your skin care specialist.
Exfoliation however you choose to do it is essential to keep skin vibrant and glowing.
We would always recommend talking to a skin care specialist.
Back to Articles