Skin Exfoliation - Types of Skin Exfoliators

All exfoliating products are intended to encourage the shedding and removal of dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface of the skin. This helps to make the skin appear younger, brighter, and smoother. It also tends to prevent blemishes, because exfoliators prevent the pores from becoming clogged with dead skin and debris.

Who Can Use an Exfoliator?

There are gentle exfoliating methods for the face, and others that you can use on the body to improve the texture of your skin. Most skin types can benefit from some form of exfoliation, but it is important to use the exfoliant correctly- and not too often. Apart from products such as AHAs and retinoic acid, which are specifically designed for daily use, exfoliation is best done once or twice a week.

Caution:

  • If you have very dry, delicate, or sensitive skin, be cautious with exfoliating products. Some may be too harsh and dry the skin out even more.

  • If you have oily skin, you may find that exfoliating stimulates the sebaceous glands, making the skin even oilier.

  • Whatever your method of exfoliation, be gentle; don't rub too vigorously anywhere.

  • Do not use an exfoliant on delicate areas, such as under your eyes.

  • If you have fragile skin and a tendency to develop visible blood vessels on your face, use a mild product and be extremely gentle.

Choosing an Skin Exfoliator

There are many different types of exfoliator, which act either chemically or mechanically:

  • Special face-care treatments, such as alpha-hydroxy acids or retinoic acid, are chemical exfoliants. Their ingredients help to remove dead cells from the skin.

  • Cleansing grains, or scrubs that contain tiny rough particles, are mechanical exfoliants. They remove dead cells through the friction of the abrasive granules against the surface of the skin.

  • Mechanical exfoliators are often better for oily skin.

  • Exfoliating pads, loofahs, or sponges offer a harsher treatment more suitable for the body than the face.

  • Pumice stones are useful for small areas, such as elbows, knees, and soles.

  • Be sure to choose an exfoliator suitable for your skin type.

How To Exfoliate

Exfoliating technique depends on the product you choose, so always read the instructions carefully.

  • When exfoliating the face, apply the scrub to the skin and gently massage over the surface.

  • Either rinse off with water or wipe the residual scrub away, and dry the skin carefully.

  • Some peeling creams are designed to be spread on the skin, left to dry, and then rubbed off. They may be too harsh for dry or sensitive skin.

  • Exfoliate body skin while you are in the bath or shower and your skin is already wet. Always rub your body toward your heart.

  • When using a pad, sponge, or loofah, gently rub the skin, paying special attention to the elbows, knees, lower legs, and upper arms and thighs, where dry skin tends to accumulate most. Then cleanse and rinse as usual.

Body Basics Menu