Discover the “why” behind exfoliation. Explore my simple guide to the benefits of exfoliation and discover the secret to smoother, brighter, healthier skin. Plus, I’m sharing my favorite skin care scrubs. Get 20% off your first Beautycounter order with code CLEAFORALL20. If you want recommendations from me, Complete this form!
Raise your hand if you used the iconic apricot scrub back in the ’90s…you know that super gritty one that looked like thick, wet sand!? Hopefully this post, on exfoliation, will convince you that said drugstore scrub is probably not the best way to exfoliate your skin.
But there are those of us who love that freshly washed feeling or the burn of those acidic pads from our teens, so I have some better options for you, ranging from a powder you add to your cleanser to a toner that burns just a little. !
Let’s dig deeper. Think of this post as Skincare Exfoliation 101.
What is exfoliation?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead cells from the outer layer of skin, revealing smoother, more even and radiant skin.
Why everyone should exfoliate
As we age, our skin’s natural ability to exfoliate or remove dead cells begins to decline. Exfoliating is important for many reasons:
- Helps your other products work better
- Smoothes uneven skin texture.
- Prevents clogged pores
- Minimizes fine lines
Two types of exfoliation
There are two ways to help the skin remove dead cells: chemically and physically.
Chemical exfoliants
Chemical exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acids (BHA), are considered gentler than physical exfoliants (scrubs). The acids in chemical exfoliants penetrate deeper into the skin, making them more effective! AHAs and BHAs loosen the bonds between dead skin cells so they can be removed more easily.
Physical exfoliants
Physical exfoliants can range from jojoba beads and bamboo particles to the apricot rough scrub mentioned above. All of these physically loosen and remove dead cells from the skin’s surface.
Fun fact: The AHA mask is a chemical AND physical exfoliant! Read my review here.
Excessive exfoliation
Regular exfoliation can leave your skin feeling tingly (like Rejuvenating peeling!), but these side effects should not last long. If you feel persistent irritation minutes after using chemical exfoliants, you’re likely exfoliating too much and damaging the skin barrier.
Signs of overexfoliation:
- persistent redness
- dryness
- inflammation
- irritation
- sprouts
This type of damage can be caused by mechanically exfoliating daily instead of weekly, scrubbing too hard, or using acids that are too strong for your skin type.
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Night rejuvenating peel – chemical exfoliant
With a patented multi-acid complex, this leave-in AHA/BHA exfoliant improves skin texture and increases clarity without irritation or dryness. With botanically derived glycolic, malic and lactic acids, the formula eliminates dull surface cells.
Nightly rejuvenating body scrub with reflective effect – chemical exfoliant
Made with a blend of AHA (glycolic acid and lactic acid) to exfoliate dead skin and stimulate cell renewal. Mandelic acid increases exfoliation without drying to renew the appearance of skin.
- Tip: Get both of these products in mini sizes (great for trying out or using for travel) in this limited edition. Duo Good night and glow.
AHA reflection effect smoothing facial mask – chemical and physical exfoliant
This 10-minute face mask is supercharged with a blend of chemical and physical exfoliants, like AHA glycolic acid and bamboo particles.
Sugarbuff Body Polish in Lemongrass – physical exfoliant
With a revitalizing lemongrass scent, this new and improved formula contains finely ground organic sugar to exfoliate and sweet almond oil to hydrate and soften skin.
Bamboobuff Exfoliating Polish – physical exfoliant
Formulated with only alumina and bamboo powder, this two-ingredient polish can be combined with most facial cleansers to help remove dead skin cells. I add it to my cleansing cream in the shower several times a week.
All Brilliant Triple Acid AHA Toner – chemical exfoliant
Made with a powerful blend of AHA, beta hydroxy acid, kombucha and niacinamide, This effective toner exfoliates and reveals a radiant complexion. It also refines pores, helping to improve and minimize the appearance of pores after just one use.
- Tip: Get a mini AHA Toner and a mini All Bright C Serum in this limited edition Brightest Days Set.
How do I use my scrubs?
I use them all, but definitely not at the same time! This is how I use them:
Night rejuvenating peel – I use it every 2-3 days as part of my nighttime routine. It’s both exfoliating and nourishing, so consider it gentle enough for regular use.
Nightly rejuvenating body scrub with reflective effect – Use on specific areas such as body scars or rough spots, elbows and uneven areas of skin.
AHA reflection effect smoothing facial mask – I use it several times a month, especially before a special event where I will wear a full face of makeup.
Sugarbuff Body Polish in Lemongrass – I use it weekly in the shower. It smells so good! There is often a seasonal scent around the holidays – this year’s is rosewater!
Bamboobuff Exfoliating Polish – I use it on my face weekly or on days when I’m really dirty, like after a full day of soccer or extra sunscreen.
All Brilliant Triple Acid AHA Toner – I use it some mornings a week after my Essence of setback. I like to mix the ingredients in my toner, but it’s too strong for me for everyday because I have very dry skin.
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Do you have a favorite exfoliating product?
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