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Importance of Exfoliation
Exfoliation of the skin is an important step in
cleansing the face and body. It can remove the dead skin
cells that accumulate on the top layer of the epidermis.
These dead cells build up on the skin and can block
pores, trapping the oils inside. Exfoliation will
remove this layer and allow the skin to breathe.
Types of Exfoliators
Mechanical Peelings - These types of exfoliators can be
comprised of hard ground botanical or natural products,
such as apricot seed, micronized silicate or hardened
wax crystals. These are usually in a cream base. This is
the most common type of product for home use. It is
called a 'one phase peeling' because it is directly
applied to wet skin and easily rinsed away. The
'mechanical' term is used since your fingertips do the
work in scrubbing the skin. There are two types of
mechanical peelings:
-
Peelings that dry on the skin - The
amount of drying time influences the peeling effect.
The longer the drying time, the better the
exfoliation.
-
Peelings which do not need to dry on
the skin - These peelings are workable immediately
after application and remain in a 'wet' state.
Enzyme Peelings - These peelings contain
natural enzymes that have an exfoliation
effect on the skin. Some ingredient examples are
bromelain, pancreas, almond
bran, and orange oil. These products are extremely
beneficial for those with mature, problem, and
oily/unclean skin types. Dead or mature cells are
removed, pigmentation spots and discolorations can
become lightened, and overall appearance is enhanced
with this type of treatment.
How to Exfoliate
In general most people will only need to exfoliate their
skin once to twice each week. Since facial tissue is delicate, it
is not recommended that exfoliation creams, washcloths,
or other harsh abrasives be used on a daily basis.
Over-washing and too much exfoliation can damage the
skin causing redness, irritation, peeling, and dryness.
You should choose the right kind of
exfoliator for your skin type. Gently work the
exfoliation cream into a moistened face in upward
circular movements. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
and follow with the use of a
Toner
or continue on with a
facial
treatment. |
