Let’s now talk about exfoliation! This is the procedure that allows removing the most superficial layer of the epidermis, where dead cells accumulate (but also any residues of dirt or make-up).
Should You Exfoliate Before or After Cleansing? Note that exfoliation is already done naturally by the skin. The old corneocytes, which are the cells in the stratum corneum that is the most superficial layer of our skin, become detached and are quickly replaced by new cells. We call this cell turnover.
5 good reasons to do a good exfoliation
If the skin thinks it all by itself, then why should we be concerned about it?
- This process has become slower over time. Give it a try to keep it looking younger!
- Various skin imperfections (eg dryness, xerosis, spots, etc.) Proper exfoliation can be beneficial for both preventions as well as treatment.
- Exfoliation promotes cell regeneration and allows greater oxygenation in the tissues. It also encourages the synthesis of collagen and elastin, which results in clearer, smoother, and more vibrant skin.
- Exfoliating before shaving the beard (yes, even men can exfoliate). This helps to expose the hair’s follicles, allowing for better removal of hair and avoiding ingrown hair which can lead to folliculitis.
- The exfoliation of the superficial layer corneum favors the absorption of functional active substances. These can be applied immediately or inserted directly into it.
Peels for chemical exfoliation
Peels are the category of chemical exfoliants. Their action relies on the weakening of intercellular junctions between keratinocytes (keratolytic effect), which causes the surface dead cells to separate and to become, thus eliminated.
Follow the directions of any products that you purchase. A slight reddening and tingling are normal side effects of chemical peels. However, if this persists for a prolonged period, it could indicate that something is wrong.
Do-it-yourself is a terrible idea: In this instance, the person who does it alone is responsible for three times as much damage.
Physical exfoliation: Scrub and gommage
This category includes scrubs that are made up of hard microparticles like salt, sugar, seed fragments, and mineral microcrystals. They are indicated for the body, but gommage is for the face, which has a cream or gel base with extra-fine powders from almond, peach, and apricot seeds.
To encourage mechanical rubbing, both include circular massaging on damp skin and thorough cleaning to get rid of the product.
The medical-aesthetic industry uses aluminum hydroxide micro granules and corundum crystals to perform microdermabrasion. This is a treatment that can help eliminate skin spots, stretch marks, scars, and wrinkles.
You can use heavier exfoliants for the body, such as the knees, elbows, and heels. But remember that you’re not peeling a wall
Avoid the eye contour for the face. You can focus more on the T area in the case of skin that is susceptible to couperose. However, it is better to use the scrub only on the T zones and to save the cheeks, where there is already good blood microcirculation. Lips will be softer and more beautiful
Exfoliation is a great way to maintain your tan.
Let’s finally dispel a myth. Exfoliation isn’t the enemy of tanning. The accumulation of dead cells makes your skin duller and more tired. Therefore, exfoliating between sunbathes can result in a lighter and brighter than.
You should not exfoliate right away after sun exposure. Your skin might already be reddened and irritated from the sun. In such cases, you can use the Soothing cream to make your skin as good as new!
