Exfoliation is important because your skin is generating new cells all the time. However, these cells become old and die and need to be replaced with new healthy cells. The older we get, the slower this process becomes. When this process is slowed, it causes the old dead cells to build up on our skin. This is what gives our skin a dull, dry and rough appearance. Exfoliating removes the oldest built up cells and allows the new healthy cells to emerge, giving your skin a healthy, youthful, fresh look.
Exfoliation can be accomplished through chemical, physical, or mechanical means. Physical exfoliation can be achieved through physically sloughing off the dead skin cells with a scrub, such as a grainy substance that works on the surface of the skin. Mechanical exfoliation is usually done by means of a facial brush, or other device that removes the old skin cells. Chemical exfoliation, which is deepest form of exfoliation, works by penetrating deeper into the skin and gently dissolving the protein bond that binds skin cells together. The dead skin is then shed easily.
You can exfoliate daily, depending on your skin type, and what products you are using, but keep in mind that while exfolation is important in your skin care routine, it can also be detrimental to the skin as well. Over-exfoliation can strip your skin of the essential oils and moisture that it needs to stay healthy, jeopardizing the healthy, natural pH of the skin, which is what your skin needs in order to keep that fresh, vibrant look.
In the winter, especially, when our skin is drier due to lack of humidity in the air, exfoliation is important on our body as well. Using a body scrub or scrub brush in the shower can be helpful. Ask me about body treatments!
Product Recommendations
Normal Skin
PCA pHaze 4 Gentle Exfoliant
Sensitive Skin
BeneFit Pineapple Face Polish
Oily Skin
Kiehls Pineapple and Papaya Facial Scrub
