Table of Contents
Introduction
When we talk about face exfoliants for radiant skin, we refer to all those products that make a smoother and more radiant appearance through an exfoliating action. American Academy of Dermatology
This Article Belongs To Skin Treatments
Facial Exfoliants for Radiant Skin
Different types of exfoliants are used on the face’s skin; these products are divided into two sets according to the mechanism of action. However, despite this difference in acting, the purpose for which exfoliants are used remains similar.
Note: This article will consider cosmetic facial exfoliants that can be used at home and not products whose use is reserved only for the professional or medical field.
Physical Exfoliants
What are?
Unlike bodily exfoliants, which act mechanically, exfoliants of this type perform their action through a physical mechanism. They use friction to help remove surface buildup and dead skin cells.
Composition
The physical exfoliants for the face available on the market are different. Lately, those containing microgranules obtained by grinding or processing seeds or shells are common, such as:
- Apricot seeds
- Almond seeds
- Peach seeds
- Jojoba seeds
- Coconut shell
Depending on the dispersed solid fraction, such as fine powders, microgranules, or microspheres, it is possible to vary the degree of exfoliation obtained using the product.
Formulations
Physical exfoliants can commonly be presented commercially in gels, creams, cleansers, or face masks. Furthermore, other ingredients with different properties may also be present within the formulation, such as moisturizers and emollients.
Physical Exfoliants
In addition to these ready-to-use products, some brands also offer the sale of “pure” powders or microgranules that can be mixed with other cosmetics before use.
Chemical Exfoliants
What are?
Unlike physical exfoliants, which act mechanically, exfoliants of this type perform their activity through a chemical mechanism of action. More precisely, chemical exfoliants work by weakening the bonds between corneocytes present on the skin’s surface. In other words, they provide what is commonly described as a keratolytic action.
Which ones are they?
The chemical exfoliants that can be found in cosmetic products for home use are above all:
- Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic acid and mandelic acid
- Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid
However, other chemical exfoliants are used in professional and medical settings. Therefore, it is possible to get a more or less deep exfoliating action depending on the chemical exfoliant used and its concentration.
We note that in commercially available formulations for home use, such as creams and masks, the concentration of chemical exfoliants such as glycolic, mandelic, or salicylic acid is generally formulated for cosmetic use.
Chemical Exfoliants
Formulations
As with physical exfoliants, chemical exfoliants are also contained in different products, such as creams, masks, gels, cleansers, or lotions. On the market, it is also possible to find fabric pads soaked in ready-to-use exfoliating substances that are massaged directly onto the face.
Cosmetic Peeling
Chemical Peeling
Benefits
Advantages and Benefits from the Use of Face Scrubs
Skin exfoliation has several benefits. The use of facial exfoliants can:
- Promote the loosening of superficial dead cells and support natural skin renewal.
- Promote the elimination of minor surface imperfections and external impurities.
- Promote skin renewal by making the skin appear smoother and brighter.
- Promote the absorption of other active ingredients applied at the end of exfoliation, such as moisturizers, emollients, and other skincare ingredients.
Of course, it must be noted that the results obtained with skin exfoliation are subjective and can vary from person to person. For additional skincare tips, you can explore this guide on how to achieve a flawless complexion.
When to Exfoliate the Face?
How often can face Exfoliants be used?
The frequency of facial exfoliation depends on the product, exfoliant used, and skin type.
Facial exfoliation may be performed at a variable rate, from once or twice a week to once or twice a month. In this regard, it is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer on the packaging of the exfoliator you propose to use.
Furthermore, we remind you that it is recommended to avoid exfoliation when the skin is sunburned or irritated. If you are using exfoliating products, daily sun protection is also important. You can learn more through this guide to SPF 50 sunscreen.
Undesirable Effects and Contraindications
Can face Exfoliants have side effects and have Contraindications to use?
In general, when exfoliation is performed correctly and according to the instructions on the packaging of the purchased product, physical and chemical exfoliants can be used safely. However, intolerance toward some components or reactions caused by sensitivity to the product or its ingredients cannot be completely excluded.
The improper and excessive use of exfoliants for the face, on the other hand, can lead to undesirable effects such as redness, dryness, and skin irritation.
As for contraindications, facial exfoliants should generally be avoided on injured, inflamed, or irritated skin and in the presence of certain skin conditions affecting the face.
In these cases, it is necessary to consult your doctor or a dermatologist for advice before using cosmetic products such as exfoliants that could worsen a pre-existing skin problem.
For people who are also concerned about uneven skin tone or pigmentation, you can read this DIY routine to reduce neck pigmentation for additional skincare information.
Chemical Exfoliants and Exfoliants – Use and Types of Exfoliants
What are?
Unlike bodily exfoliants, which act mechanically, chemical exfoliants perform their activity through a chemical mechanism of action. More exactly, chemical exfoliants work by weakening the bonds that hold together the corneocytes present on the skin’s surface. In other words, they carry out what can commonly be defined as a keratolytic action.
Exfoliating the skin is often associated with removing dead cells deposited at the surface of the epidermis.
Exfoliating products are very popular among women, especially those who are not very young.
Mature skin can become drier more easily, so choosing an appropriate exfoliation method and frequency is important.
Exfoliants
Exfoliants are cosmetic products used to remove dead cells present within the surface layer of the skin. After treatment with an exfoliating gel or cream, commonly called a scrub or peeling product, the skin may appear visibly brighter, smoother, and more even.