Is exfoliating necessary?
We know that skin is the largest organ we have and we want to do our best in caring for it. So should it be added to our skincare routine? Or is it just a fade?
What is Exfoliation?
But first, what is exfoliation? Our skin is a complex organ with multiple layers. The very top layer is made up of 10 to 30 sub-layers of dead skin cells.
These cells are consistently being replaced with new ones as the old ones fall off. A complete cell turnover cycle can take about 28 days in younger adults. As you age, however, the turnover cycle slows and can take about 45 days to complete.
Exfoliation is the process of removing the top sub-layers of dead skin cells before they fall off naturally. Some people agree that that top layer of dead skin cells looks dull or dry, thus removing them improves the skin's appearance. There are many exfoliation methods that can be done at home, while dermatologist or trained aestheticians can assist with other methods. We'll only discuss at-home exfoliation options in this blog.
It's pretty easy to include exfoliation in your skincare routine at home and see the results. Experts recommend starting with gentle exfoliants to see how your skin reacts.
Manual Exfoliation
Manual exfoliation can be done by using a tool to remove dead cells on the surface of your skin. This includes skin scrubs, textured cloths, sponges, loofahs, or exfoliating brushes.
Chemical Exfoliation
Some products have ingredients that disintegrate dead skin cells like alpha and beta hydroxy acids. Alpha hydroxy acids include ingredients like glycolic and citric acids, while beta hydroxy acids include salicylic acid.
While you can exfoliate any part of your body, experts recommend using gentler ingredients for your face and neck than the rest of your body. If your skin gets irritated or starts to break out after you try a new product, stop using it immediately. Too much exfoliation can damage your skin.
Signs you need to Exfoliate
1. Your products aren't absorbing into your skin. Dead skin cells can act as a barrier to your skincare products, blocking your products from absorbing into your skin.
2. Your skin looks dull. Dead skin cells aren't vibrant and reflective like live skin cells. Instead, they dull your appearance, making you look tired and older. If your skin seems to absorb light rather than reflect it, you may need to exfoliate.
3. You have breakouts or your pores look clogged. There are many things that can clog our pores, like oil, dirt, or even skincare products. Sometimes cleansers aren't enough to remove the mixture of oil, product, and dead skin cells. Exfoliants break through the buildup to reveal youthful, healthy skin.
4. You have bumpy skin. While textured skin is perfectly healthy, exfoliating can be a way to even out your skin's texture.
Bring out the best in your skin
Exfoliating is a way to get more out of products you apply to your skin. Since the skin isn't clogged, your products are absorbed and can show their intended benefit.
Shop our selection of exfoliants here.
