Exfoliation 101: When is it Too Much?

Want an even, radiant complexion? We all do, and exfoliating the top layer of the skin to reveal the fresh, youthful layers below is one way to do it.

However, so many of us make the mistake of reaching for an abrasive exfoliating product each time we cleanse our faces. Exfoliation is essential, but there is such thing as too much of a good thing. So, what are you supposed to do to get your best complexion?

Why exfoliate?

Exfoliation has so many skincare benefits.

1. It removes dead skin cells to reveal younger skin below. How can you see your youthful glow when it’s hiding under the old? The top layer is sloughed away to reduce hyperpigmentation and reveal a more even skin tone.
2. It minimises the size of pores. Not only that it also makes scars less noticeable as well.
3. It minimses the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Dead skin gets caught up in fine lines. Exfoliating removes all this debris to improve the reflection of light.
4. It unclogs pores. It removes all that dirt, debris, dead skin cells, trapped oils and more.

If those four reasons don’t convince you, here’s one that might: it improves the absorption rate of your favourite skincare products. You see, all that debris prevents your products from getting to the deeper layers of skin. Exfoliating clears the way for your serums and moisturisers to do as promised.

What should you use?

There are two types of exfoliators. The first is what you may think of initially - physical exfoliants. This includes the cleansers and masks that contain rough bits to physically remove the top layer of skin. Although tough or oilier skin may be able to handle this every now and then, most skin types will experience redness and irritation if used too often. The second type of exfoliant includes chemical exfoliants. These are often gentler on the skin and include Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and enzymes that dissolve dirt, debris, and dead cells. Most Cosmedix products contain chemical exfoliants that are tolerated by most skin types.

Purity Clean Exfoliating Cleanser

Purity Clean is a gentle cleanser that is ideal for normal to oily skin. It contains plant-based ingredients that gently remove dead skin and debris from the top layer as well as essential oils to cool the skin. It’s gentle enough to use daily.

Purity Detox Scrub Multi-Layer Detoxification System

Purity Detox is a blend of chemical exfoliators including salicylic acid as well as jojoba and poppy seeds - physical exfoliators - to remove impurities and reveal smoother skin. Simply mix it with water or your favourite Cosmedix cleanser and apply to your skin. Rinse and use every third day, or as tolerated by your skin.

Pure Enzymes Exfoliating Mask

Pure Enzymes uses L-Lactic acid and cranberry enzymes to gently remove impurities from the pores without causing irritation.  Ideal for acne-prone skin, use it once or twice a week for best results.

How often should you exfoliate?

Always follow the instructions on the container. Some, like Purity Clean above, are gentle enough to use daily. Others, including most masks, should only be used once or twice a week. Your esthetician will advise a treatment schedule that works best for your skin goals and concerns.