I Was Exfoliating Wrong for Years – Do This for Glowing, Smooth Skin!

“Tired of dull skin? Exfoliation is key to getting rid of this problem, so don’t worry.

Exfoliation is essential to any skincare routine, but many people forget to do it regularly. In addition, this mistake can result in several skin issues, including dull skin and plugged pores.

In this article, we’ll examine the different types of exfoliants, guide you in choosing the perfect one for your skin type, and show you how to add exfoliation to your skincare routine.

What is Exfoliation?

Exfoliation is a centuries-old technique that removes dead skin cells, revealing brighter, smoother skin. It requires patience, commitment, and extensive knowledge of the skin’s needs.

”Regular exfoliation can improve skin brightness by up to 30%.” It makes daily moisturizing more effective by allowing the moisturizer to penetrate deeper skin.                                                                

Benefits of Exfoliation

Exfoliation has several benefits. Among these are:

1. Improve the Absorption of products

2. Reduce acne

3. Anti-Aging

4. Decreased anxiety and tension

Types of exfoliants:

There are two types of exfoliators

Physical Exfoliant (Mechanical)

This technique involves cleansing scrubs, body brushes, and loofahs.

Meanwhile, commonly available household ingredients like sugar, coffee, honey, and milk are used to make an affordable and effective scrub that works well for the skin. Furthermore, a study found that regular exfoliation can increase the firmness and elasticity of the skin, making the skin appear younger.

Chemical Exfoliants

Chemical exfoliants work differently from physical exfoliators using acids like beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), and enzyme-based formulations to remove dead skin cells. A study by ”The American Academy of Dermatology‘‘ said uses chemical peels to diminish many signs of aging on the face hands, neck, and chest. 

How they work:

Chemical peels break down the bonds holding damaged skin cells in place. They work from the inside out, revealing smoother, brighter skin.

In particular, there are two main types of chemical exfoliants:
1. Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
2. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

1. Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs)

BHAs are oil-soluble and go deeply into your hair follicles to remove dead skin cells and remove excessive oil.

 Useful in treating blackheads and acne. Mostly used BHA is salicylic acid.

How beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) help with acne?
It decreases skin oil, bacteria, inflammation, and hyperpigmentation while improving the absorption of other acne medications.

2. Acids alpha hydroxy (AHAs)

Water-soluble acids known as AHAs are generally made from sweet fruits. Glycolic acid and Lactic acid are mostly used AHAs.

Common sources of AHAs:

I. Glycolic acid (sugar cane)

II. Lactic acid (pickled vegetables and milk)

III. Citric acid (citrus fruits)

IV. Tartaric acid (wine)

V. Malic acid (apples)

‘’According to a study alpha hydroxy acids are effective for sun-damaged skin.’’

How do alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) benefit sun-damaged skin?
Sun-damaged skin benefits from alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) in various ways, including exfoliating, collagen formation, hydration, skin brightening, and improved skin texture.

Common Misconceptions

While there are some common misconceptions about exfoliation

1. If you have acne, you cannot use chemical exfoliants.

Fact: BHAs, such as salicylic acid, are made specifically to treat skin that cracks easily.

2. Granular exfoliants do not damage your skin when exfoliating properly.

Suggests using sugar, coconut oil, and coffee powder for a natural scrub twice weekly. If you use too much sugar scrub in your everyday skincare routine, it will irritate your skin.

How to choose an exfoliator according to your skin type:

In addition, it’s essential to know how to exfoliate properly and to avoid irritation and dryness.

1. Sensitive: Light chemical exfoliants are best for sensitive skin (1-2 times a week)

2. Dry: Hydrated physical exfoliants for dry skin (once a week)

3. Oil: Use chemical exfoliants without oil (Twice in a week)

4. Acne-prone: Salicylic acid and tea tree oil exfoliants (3 times in a week)

How to Exfoliate?

•  Cleanse your face
•  Apply your exfoliator according to skin type
•  Scrubbing for 30 to 60 seconds
•  Rinse it off with slightly warm water
•  Over-exfoliation, which causes dryness and irritation and do a patch test for a fresh exfoliator

Conclusion:

Finally, remember to choose the best exfoliator for your skin type and make it a part of your skincare.

“Exfoliating with the right product can unlock the secret to glowing skin. Say goodbye to dull, lifeless skin and hello to a smoother, brighter complexion. Choose the best exfoliator for your skin type and make it a part of your skincare routine.”

“Exfoliating before bed can help improve skin texture and tone. It allows your skin to repair and regenerate while you sleep.”