Let’s talk exfoliation.
This is a skincare technique that clients overdo on the skin or don’t do at all. Once you get in the habit of regularly exfoliating your skin, you will always make time to exfoliate because it makes such a difference.
What is exfoliation? It’s simply the removal of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. Exfoliation will kick start newer cells to the surface faster, and that means healthier more younger looking skin.
Skin cells usually regenerate about every 30 days. As we age though that can start to slow down significantly. Our skin starts to look dull, rough, dry, and no glow. Without regular exfoliation, we can also experience clogged pores, increased blemishes, milia, and dull skin.
There are 2 basic types of exfoliation, Manual and Chemical. Both do a great job, so determining which is best for you will give you the results you’re after.
Manual Exfoliation is your scrub type of product. They usually have ground up seeds or grainy type of ingredients that you can feel in your hand. You add a little water and manually go over the skin with a rotating motion around the face. Be careful though! The cheeks seem to get more attention than the rest of the face. I think we like the motion of rubbing the scrub in circles on the cheeks for some reason! Too much for too long can result in tiny broken capillaries (those little red veins) and irritation in this area. A gentle approach is all that’s needed. One to two times a week is all you need to get your glow back!
Chemical Exfoliation usually contains acids that are in a pad like product or applied like a mask that dissolve the dead skin layers when applied. These are more intense and are used for a shorter period of time. Think of after winter. That’s a great time to do some skin rejuvenation!
With any type of exfoliation remember that old saying, ” Too much of a good thing can become a bad thing.” So true. With overuse, the skin can become irritated and damaged. In esthetics, we say the skin looks angry. Red and not happy! Exfoliating gently always works best.
What results can you expect?
- Smoother skin. Softer skin
- Better absorption of products used afterwards
- Wrinkles and lines softened
- Pigmentation will start to lighten
- Makeup will look fresher and last longer
- You will get your glow back!
Implement exfoliation in your skincare if you’re not doing it already, and if you are, try to be more consistent. You are going to love the results!
Until next time,
~pat
