Exfoliation Explained; Which Image Exfoliator is Right For You
You might be cleansing, moisturising and doing “all of the above” when it comes to your skincare routine, but If you’re not already exfoliating regularly, it may be time to start!
What is Exfoliation?
The exfoliation process helps to remove excess makeup, dirt and dead skin cells on the skin’s surface while promoting a higher cell turnover rate in your skin simultaneously.
Here at Image, there are three methods of exfoliation in which can be used;
- Physical by means of abrasive scrubs used on the skin or;
- Chemically through the use of scrubs that contain special acids to dissolve and remove dead skin cells without any scrubbing involved at all and;
- Enzymatic, which is the gentlest types of exfoliants whereby enzymes are often derived from fruit sources.
Before getting into which of these exfoliants is right for you and your skin type, here’s a few reasons why it is so important!
Why is Exfoliating Important?
By following a regular exfoliating routine, the skin is prepped and preened to better readily absorb your other products into the skin. Hence, allowing these products to perform better and deliver results faster!
Without exfoliation, old skin cells begin to pile up on the skin’s surface, leaving it with the following problems;
- Rough and dry
- Dull and dehydrated
- Excess oil and clogged pores
- Breakouts, blemishes, spots and acne. rough, dry, dull and weathered.
Which Exfoliator is Right for You?
IMAGE Skincare exfoliants are available in a variety of forms for different skin types. These forms include creamy enzymes, granulated scrubs, and fruit acid toners. Each IMAGE Skincare exfoliant is designed with different mechanisms and ingredients to encourage better product penetration, rendering the entire skincare regimen more effective.
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PHYSICAL SKINCARE EXFOLIATOR
Scrubs, polishes, gommage: They’re all types of physical (sometimes called manual) exfoliators.
HOW IT WORKS
Like their name implies, physical exfoliants utilise exfoliating particles to actively remove skin from the surface. Examples include jojoba beads, bamboo spheres and minerals, like silica.
WHO IT’S FOR
Mature skin types that benefit from any kind of cellular turnover are often good candidates for physical exfoliation.
WHAT TO TRY
ORMEDIC balancing gel polisher, a combination of enzymes, olive pit powder and bamboo spheres that smooth away dullness.
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CHEMICAL EXFOLIATOR
You’re likely familiar with the benefits of glycolic and lactic, two popular forms of alpha hydroxy acids. Meanwhile, the beta hydroxy acid family notably includes salicylic acid, which treats acne. Both AHAs and BHAs work on the skin’s uppermost layer, helping to refine the skin so it appears smoother and firmer.
HOW IT WORKS
Chemical exfoliants break down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, allowing for more thorough exfoliation.
WHO IT’S FOR
Oily or blemish-prone skin that is not inflamed will benefit from a chemical exfoliator. Look for products containing salicylic acid, which is oil-soluble and effective at clearing out blocked pores.
WHAT TO TRY
AGELESS total resurfacing masque, a micro-exfoliating masque with alpha hydroxy acids that rejuvenate the skin’s appearance.
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ENZYMATIC EXFOLIATOR
The gentlest types of exfoliants, enzymes are often derived from fruit sources such as papaya, pumpkin and pineapple. They remove dead skin, taking dullness with it.
HOW IT WORKS
Enzyme exfoliants gently digest dead skin cells and dissolve the “glue” that holds them together. They help to brighten the skin and encourage a radiant appearance.
WHO IT’S FOR
Enzymes offer a great alternative for breakout-prone skin that is also inflamed. They’re ideal for sensitive or redness-prone skin to give light exfoliation without downtime.
WHAT TO TRY
VITAL C hydrating enzyme masque, a gentle formula with vitamin C that helps to brighten the skin as it infuses essential antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
If you want to achieve glowing, healthy skin - exfoliation is a must-do! If you are not sure where to begin, consult with your skincare professional to make sure you choose the right type of exfoliator for you and your skin type. On top of this, consider enhancing your routine with a professional treatment like a peel and watch as your skin results are taken to the next level!
