How to Rejuvenate Your Skin with Facial Exfoliation

There's no better way to wind down from a bustling day than with a relaxing and mindful skincare routine. Besides daily facial cleansing, you should exfoliate your skin twice a week (nothing more!) as well. Facial exfoliation is a crucial step in skincare, it helps to unclog pores and eliminate cumulative dead skin cells for a smoother skin surface. And though physical and chemical exfoliators both get the job done, a proper regime needs to be incorporated for it to work effectively. 

Tailoring exfoliators to skin care needs will elevate your routine for a brighter and even complexion. There are two types of physical exfoliation, one usually involves a mechanical device like exfoliating gloves, scrubs or brushes with brittles or rough textures to help scrub away the debris, the other relies on a manual removal that contains small particles in the formular for an instant fix. Some ingredients to avoid are large exfoliant beads like fruit pits or nut shells that may cause micro-tears in the skin over time of usage. These micro-tears can lead to uneven skin textures and pigmentation, hence it is vital to not be abrasive to your skin when using these physical exfoliators.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, physical exfoliators may be your best bet when double cleansing without damaging or irritating your skin. Leave your skin feeling and looking flawless with a gentle scrub that stimulates circulation in your skin cells.

Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, involves an acid or chemical peel to slough any dead skin. Common ingredients of chemical exfoliants are Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), or fruit enzymes. These acids help to break down the bond that holds the dead skin cells together. AHAs like glycolic and lactic acids are water-soluble and can only work on the skin’s surface, which aids in diminishing dark spots and reducing any visible signs of aging. Meanwhile, BHAs includes salicylic acids to help penetrate deeper into the skin to get rid of trapped sebums and blackheads. Natural fruit enzymes like papaya and pineapple are less harsh than the chemicals, which helps to break down the keratin in your skin and target only the exterior layers of the epidermis.

If you have oily, combination or acne-prone skin, chemical exfoliation is your strongest ally in breaking down the build-up in your skin and target any concerns without leading to future breakouts. Once your skin is accustomed to the exfoliation process, you will gain noticeable results — fresher, brighter and a never-ending glow.

1. Remove any make up on your face with a gentle cleanser or remover
2. To exfoliate your face physically, apply a quarter-size amount of product and rub in small, circular motions to stimulate the skin. For chemical exfoliation, apply with a cotton pad or wash cloth and gently wipe it across your face
3. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel
4. Follow up with your skincare routine with sunscreen, moisturizer or a face mask for smooth and hydrated skin and you’re good to go!