Exfoliation 101: How to Exfoliate Your Way to Glowing Skin
Out with the old, in with the new - and no, this line isn't just for your wardrobe. To reveal your best glowing skin, getting rid of dead skin cells should be in order. There's no wonder why skincare fans can't say no to exfoliation - this cosmetic process is the secret to eliminating impurities that could make a face look dull and tired.
The process of exfoliation is a step you can't miss - especially if rocking that ever-blooming skin is one of your #skincaregoals.
What You'll Learn From This Guide
- What is Skin Exfoliation
- Two Types of Exfoliants
- Exfoliation for Oily Skin
- Exfoliation for Dry Skin
- Exfoliation for Sensitive Skin
- Exfoliation for Combination Skin
What is Skin Exfoliation
Think of your skin as a canvas. If you skip stripping old paint off the canvas, the new color will look sloppy and dull.
The benefits of exfoliation do not stop at giving you glowing skin - it makes sure dead skin cells don't wreak havoc on your face.
The skin accumulates dead cells at a regular interval. In a perfect world, the skin can naturally shed off dead skin cells. However, as one matures, the natural way of skin renewal becomes more difficult. Exfoliation prevents dead skin cells from causing skin problems like acne, blocked pores, dry patches, and aging skin. Another bonus: exfoliating allows your skin to absorb other products effectively!
Skin that looks healthy, supple, and young? Exfoliate, stat!
Two Types of Exfoliants
You can exfoliate with a physical exfoliant and a liquid exfoliant. Most of the time, choosing between these two types of exfoliants depends on your type of skin, the results you want to achieve, and the length of the time you want to achieve them.
Liquid Exfoliants
Also known as AHA, BHA, and enzymes, liquid exfoliants dissolve grime and pollutants and loosen dead skin cells from the healthier skin. In some cases, liquid exfoliants contain granules to help strip dead skin from the face once loosened. Compared to physical exfoliants, liquid peels work deeper on the skin's surface.
For those who are nervous about the term 'chemical'- most AHAs, BHA, and enzymatic exfoliants are derived from plants and fruit, so really, it’s all natural.
Types of liquid exfoliants and what they are usually made from:
- Glycolic Acid: sugar cane
- Lactic Acid: milk
- Malic Acid: apples and pears
- Mandelic Acid: almonds
- Enzymes: papaya, cranberry, pineapple, pumpkin, papain
- BHA: willow barks
Physical Exfoliants
Physical exfoliants come in different names – mechanical exfoliation, peel-off masks, cleansing brushes, microdermabrasion, and face scrubs or physical scrubs. These exfoliants work to remove dead skin cells when physically rubbed on the skin. It may sound harsh for the skin, but for some women this can be a better option depending on their skin type and lifestyle.
Exfoliation for Different Skin Types
Exfoliation for Oily Skin
When you are dealing with an oily skin type, exfoliation can be done safely with physical and liquid exfoliants. Face scrubs can help shake off the build up of oil on your skin. If you want to buff off dead skin cells in a gentler way, go for liquid exfoliants.
Liquid Exfoliants for Oily Skin
Oily skin that isn't sensitive can enjoy the benefits of exfoliating two to three times a week. Skincare enthusiasts consider liquid exfoliants for their higher efficacy in dissolving impurities on oily skin without the irritation. Exfoliants with jojoba, and BHA components are also great options for oily skin!
Physical Exfoliants for Oily Skin
A physical exfoliant can be an oily skin’s holy grail as it can buff out dead skin that clings like crazy. Just be careful not to over-exfoliate - use physical exfoliants twice a week, max.
Exfoliation for Dry Skin
Skip the mechanical exfoliants if you have dry skin as they can cause irritation. Opt for gel or liquid exfoliants that can encourage cell skin turnover without the micro-tears.
Ga-De Gommage Eclat Gentle Peeling Cream | $38
Exfoliation for Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin, skip the scrubs that can cause increased redness. For mature skin, opt for a gentle exfoliant that won't cause your skin to be stretched.
Dr Irena Enzyme peel is a hydrating, non-abrasive exfoliant suited to ageing or sensitive skins.The silky texture and hydrating properties leave the skin soothed, calm, and glowing. It also smells AMAZING!
Exfoliation for Combination Skin
If you have combination skin, it also needs combo care. Combination skin requires a good mix of physical and liquid exfoliants. Use a liquid exfoliant to the job on dry areas. If your skin is feeling relatively oily, go for a gentle scrub. Avoid using both the same day, and always moisturise after exfoliating.
Physical Exfoliants for Combination Skin
We Recommend:
Liquid Exfoliants for Combination Skin
We Recommend:
Take the extra mile and exfoliate - it'll lead you one step closer to flaunting healthy, plump, radiating skin. Not sure where exfoliation falls in the order of your skincare routine? Try our skin quiz!