Many of us have heard the word “exfoliation” and have understood it to be an essential part of a beauty routine. From home care to lavish facial treatments, exfoliating is a necessary component that promises to lift away dirt, impurities, and dead skin cells to reveal a rejuvenated and healthy complexion. However, before we jump on the bandwagon for this practice, one might ask whether this is an unnecessary practice or a useful addition to one’s skincare routine. This post will examine the ins and outs to prove that exfoliation can be beneficial if done correctly. However, it can also involve counterproductive risks of which one should be made aware.
Benefits of Exfoliation
Exfoliation is a beauty regimen that works by removing dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. This process makes the skin appear fresher, brighter, and healthier. Individuals who have added exfoliation to their skincare routine have seen a wide range of benefits. Many reports have explained that exfoliating the skin allows for better absorption of topical skin products by allowing them to seep more deeply into the epidermal layers of the skin. Moreover, studies have proven that long-term exfoliation can contribute to fewer acne breakouts, increased collagen production, and revitalized, healthier-looking skin.
Methods- Chemical vs Physical
Exfoliation can occur through two methods: chemical and physical. Chemical exfoliants comprise AHAs or other acids that, when applied, can dissolve dead skin cells. Chemical products aren’t as aggressive as physical exfoliants and do not rub or pull on the skin. In comparison, physical exfoliants use a brush or scrub, to manually remove dead skin from the surface epidermal layer.
Importantly, one must be aware of their skin type before adding exfoliation to their regimen. Over-exfoliating can be damaging and irritating to the skin and can lead to accelerated aging if unlucky. Individuals with sensitive skin should limit the practice to once a week, compared to individuals with normal or combination skin types who may do so two to three times a week. Exfoliation may very well be the secret to brighter and more youthful skin. However, if frequent exfoliation causes any irregularities such as dryness or excess oil production, you may be over-doing it. Nevertheless, this skincare regimen never fails to deliver on its promise to rejuvenate and illuminate the skin!
