A few weeks ago I wrote a blog post on pre-wedding skincare tips, and I am glad that many brides-to-be found it useful. I want to dig into some of the concepts a little bit deeper in separate blog posts. This one is about exfoliation.
What is exfoliation?
Exfoliation is the removal of the outermost layer of dead skin cells from the skin surface, revealing the fresher and younger skin cells underneath.
There are two main types of exfoliation: physical exfoliation and chemical exfoliation. I will explore the two different types of exfoliation below.
Why is exfoliation important for bridal makeup?
The advantage of exfoliation is two-fold. By getting rid of the surface layer of dead skin cells, it does not only reveal younger skin which looks smoother and more radiant; without the surface layer of dead skin cells to act as a barrier, other skincare products applied after exfoliation are able to penetrate the skin better, making them more effective.
The application of foundation and powder can often accentuate dry and flaky skin. Regular exfoliation coupled with hydration means your makeup will look better and stay better.
Physical VS chemical exfoliation
Physical exfoliation involves the physical scrubbing of skin with an 'abrasive' (but bear in mind that an abrasive does not need to be very abrasive!). Commonly used abrasives include crushed apricot kernel, pumice, salt or sugar crystals, and microbeads (plastic). Specially designed facial cleansing brush and cleansing cloth can be used as abrasives as well.
Chemical exfoliation makes use of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) or enzymes (or a combination of these) to break down the adhesion of dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliation can be used on many skin types, in particular, dry, sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Some examples of AHAs include glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid and malic acid. On the other hand, BHA is mainly present in the form of salicylic acid.
Pictured from left to right: 1. Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant - chemical exfoliant; 2. Ella Baché Tomate Granule Free Micro Exfoliant - chemical (enzyme) exfoliant; 3. Dermalogica Multivitamin Thermofoliant - a combination of physical and chemical exfoliants; 4. Dermalogica Skin Prep Scrub - physical exfoliant.
Just in case you wonder, we are not sponsored by or associated with Dermalogica, but it does make some of the best exfoliants in the market.
How do I choose the right product?
Generally speaking, physical exfoliation is more suitable for skin that is resilient and acne-free. Normal, combination and oily skin types can all benefit from this form of exfoliation. When choosing a physical exfoliant, avoid abrasives that are too rough. Remember to be gentle with your application, massage the exfoliant onto clean skin using circular motion gently. Rinse off. Apply serum and moisturiser afterwards.
Chemical exfoliation can be used on most skin types, but it is particularly suitable for drier skin or skin with acne. AHAs (being water-soluble) and enzymes are effective in removing dull and dry skin, whereas BHA (being oil-soluble) does a better job in clearing up congestion, such as oil plugs, dirt and dead skin cells from inside the pores. The methods of application vary, so it is important to always follow the instructions printed on the products.
If skin tolerance is high, a combination of these two exfoliation methods can be used - either at the same time or in alternation.
Avoid microbeads
For years, microbeads have been used in cosmetics as a form of physical exfoliant. Microbeads are small plastic particles that do not disintegrate. When they are washed down to the ocean, they pollute the environment and they are hazardous for aquatic animals. Microbeads have been made illegal in some countries.
Microbeads are often listed as "polyethylene" or "polypropylene" as an ingredient.
How often do I exfoliate?
Exfoliation should form part of your skincare regimen, meaning that it should be used conjunction with other steps such as cleansing and moisturising.
With the exception of exfoliants specifically designed for daily use, exfoliation should not be used more than 3 times a week. If exfoliation is new to you, start with once a week to test your skin tolerance and gradually work your way up.
To read more on exfoliants that can be used daily, go to part 2 of this blog.
2 Comments
May 7, 2018, 5:02:07 PM
Stella @ Faces - Thank you very much for your feedback Ingrid. It is an excellent exfoliator isn't it! Nothing else quite like it.
Stella @ Faces x
Feb 28, 2018, 3:05:51 PM
Ingrid - I love the Dermalogica Age Smart Multivitamin Thermofoliant. It's my go-to exfliator!
Ingrid
http://www.fabulousandfunlife.blogspot.com.au