What is exfoliation? Why is it so important?
You must have heard of the term "exfoliation." It is a crucial step in our skincare routine. But what exactly is exfoliation? Why is it so important? What benefits does it have for our skin? Our skin sheds the dead cells on the top layer of the epidermis every month, allowing new skin cells to form. However, if these dead skin cells do not shed and accumulate on the epidermis, our skin will look dull and dry, which can lead to clogged pores and acne. As we age, the rate of stratum corneum renewal gradually slows down, so exfoliation is a process that accelerates the shedding of dead skin and ensures that dead skin cells do not accumulate. In addition, removing dead skin cells can prevent them from clogging pores, allow other skincare products to penetrate deeper into the skin, making them more effective.Types of exfoliation: Chemical exfoliation vs. Physical exfoliation
There are two types of exfoliation: chemical exfoliation and physical exfoliation. Chemical exfoliation uses chemical exfoliants such as AHA and BHA to break down dead skin cells and accelerate the shedding process. Physical exfoliation involves manually removing dead skin cells, such as with a scrub. Usually, physical exfoliation produces immediate results, while chemical exfoliation takes time to work its magic. However, please note that not everyone is suitable for physical exfoliation, as it can often cause some irritation to the skin and may do more harm than good, especially for those with sensitive skin types. On the bright side, chemical exfoliants are universal for everyone, as long as you choose the right one.The benefits of exfoliation:
Here are some benefits of exfoliation:Reduce acne and pimples
As mentioned above, exfoliation helps to unclog pores, thereby minimizing the occurrence of whiteheads, blackheads, and other blemishes (such as acne). However, please pay attention to the extent of your exfoliation. Over-exfoliation can lead to extremely dry skin, which in turn promotes the production of sebum and acne. Therefore, try to follow a gentle exfoliation routine. You can start by exfoliating once a week, then increase the frequency to twice a week, and make sure to moisturize afterwards.2. Increase skin moisture content
Another benefit of exfoliation is that it helps other skincare products penetrate deeper into the skin. When dead skin cells accumulate on our skin, they block the moisturizers we apply to the skin, making it harder for the skin to absorb skincare products. Exfoliation clears out our pores and opens them up. This allows the skincare products we use afterward to penetrate deeper into the skin and enhances their effectiveness. Therefore, it improves our skin's moisture content.3. Eliminate dark spots
Everyone loves flawless skin, even skin tone. However, excessive pigmentation and dark spots have always been a concern for many people. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, thereby lightening dark spots. It reveals the new skin cells underneath, making the overall skin tone more even. In addition, exfoliation can also brighten the complexion, remove dull skin, and make the skin look younger.4. Stimulate blood circulation and lymphatic drainage
When we exfoliate, this movement will help stimulate blood flow and increase circulation, thereby aiding internal cleansing, toxin removal, and skin detoxification. In addition, it also helps nourish the skin's surface, increase skin elasticity, promote cell skin health, and make the skin radiate a youthful glow.5. Increase collagen levels
Anti-aging is also one of the benefits of regular exfoliation. Exfoliation can promote collagen synthesis, increase skin elasticity, and make the skin look firm and plump. It can also reduce wrinkles and fine lines, which are the main problems of aging.
Summary
Exfoliation is an indispensable part of the skincare routine. It can remove old keratin, promote the growth of new cells, and make the skin glow with a healthy radiance. Chemical exfoliation and physical exfoliation each have their own advantages and disadvantages, but both can bring many benefits, such as reducing acne, increasing skin moisture, lightening dark spots, promoting blood circulation, and increasing collagen. However, exfoliation should be moderate to avoid excessive exfoliation causing dry or sensitive skin.
