The world of skincare has drastically evolved in recent years, but some techniques remain tried and true. One of our favorite methods for maintaining smooth skin is exfoliation. Although this term has exploded in recent years, Reviva’s founder Stephen Strassler actually introduced this technique to America in 1973.
As new skin cells form, old cells reach the outer layer of the skin and “die.” These dead cells form the outer protective layer of your skin, but are eventually shed, revealing newer skin cells underneath. Exfoliation is simply the act of removing these dead skin cells ourselves, rather than waiting for our skin to do it. But why is this important?
The benefits of removing excess dead skin cells
Build up of dead skin cells can be detrimental to our skin. Excess skin cells lead to a duller, drier appearance. These dead skin cells also have the potential to clog pores, leading to breakouts.
Exfoliation becomes even more important as we age, when cell turnover begins to slow. Regular exfoliation helps us maintain brighter, smoother skin, and can even help increase cell turnover. It also helps the other products we use to be most effective. When we remove the top layer of dead skin cells from the skin, our products can penetrate deeper.
Exfoliation in skincare exists in two forms: mechanical (sometimes referred to as physical), and chemical. Mechanical exfoliators manually remove dead skin cells from your skin using friction. Abrasive materials like oatmeal or crushed almonds remove cells from the surface layer of your skin, revealing a smoother complexion that’s well prepared for follow-up products.
Chemical exfoliators, on the other hand, utilize fruit enzymes or acids like AHAs and BHAs to remove dead skin build up. These ingredients dissolve dead cells on the top layer of skin, allowing you to wipe away debris and dead skin without abrasion. Note that chemical exfoliators can increase skin’s sensitivity to the sun. While SPF should be a part of your daily routine, it’s especially important when using chemical exfoliators.
Should you exfoliate?
If you’re wondering if exfoliation is right for you, the short answer is yes! While everyone can benefit from exfoliation, picking which type of exfoliator is right for you depends on your preferences and the current condition of your skin. It’s also important to remember to ease into any new skincare techniques. When beginning an exfoliation routine, we recommend using an exfoliant product 2-3 times a week.
For dull, flaky skin, our Light Skin Peel Mild Exfoliant is a perfect choice. This physical exfoliant is gentle yet effective, and even contains a chemical exfoliant, salicylic acid, for additional skin-sloughing benefits. The almond seed meal featured in this product gently scrubs away debris on the top layer of skin, allowing the salicylic acid to work its magic. This mask is so gentle it can be used two to three times a week after cleansing.
Our Bamboo Charcoal Exfoliating Mask also uses physical exfoliators to reveal brighter, smoother skin. This mask is a great choice for those with dark spots or uneven skin tone. The lava powder and bamboo charcoal in this product gently exfoliate while bentonite clay draws out impurities. The soothing oils featured in this product, like jojoba and green tea, calm irritated complexions. The best part? This mask is so gentle it can be added to your daily routine. Pampering isn’t just for the weekends anymore!
For those looking to maintain a smooth complexion and keep dry skin at bay, a mask with chemical exfoliants would be your best choice. Our Fruit Enzyme Mask features pumpkin, pineapple, and papaya enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells draw out impurities. The exfoliants in this mask gently loosen the top layer of skin and smooth rough patches without excessive irritation. If you want exfoliation but your skin can’t tolerate abrasion, this mask is a great pick.
If masks aren’t your thing, we also offer chemical exfoliators in products like the Glycolic Acid Toner and Glycolic Acid Face Wash. Simply wash your face and follow up with the toner for hassle-free exfoliation. These products are great for those with aging or sun-damaged skin. Glycolic acid works to mildly exfoliate, increasing cell turnover and reducing the appearance of sun damage.
We understand that diving into a new skincare technique can be intimidating. Knowing how to choose the right products for your specific skin concerns is a huge first step in achieving great skin. And if you ever need more in-depth help choosing products to build your routine, we’re always just a call away!
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