Exfoliation: Best Practice Tips

Facial exfoliation refers to the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the face using mechanical or chemical exfoliators.

Facial exfoliators come in different forms and can vary in appearance based on the type of exfoliation method. They can be cleansers, toners, day and night creams, targeted creams, serums, lotions, masks and peel pads.

Treatment tips when using exfoliators

• Too much scrubbing and vigorous massaging with microbeads, brushes or even loofahs can lead to irritation, a disrupted epidermal barrier function and sensitivity.
• The best way to exfoliate the skin and promote the cellular renewal process is to use active ingredients.

Skincare ingredients in exfoliators

Physical exfoliators

• Jojoba Beads
• Alumina Crystals
• Sugar
• Ultra-fine Magnesium Crystals
• Silica
• Nut Shell Powders

Chemical exfoliators

• Lactic Acid
• Salicylic Acid
• Glycolic Acid
• Lactobionic Acid
• Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA)
• Mandelic Acid

Enzymatic exfoliators

• Papaya
• Cathepzyme D
• Lipase
• Subtilisin

Skincare products for exfoliation

Exfoliating cleansers are skincare products that combine the cleansing properties of a facial cleanser with the exfoliating benefits of gentle exfoliants. Dr Webster recommends:

• Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Cleanser
• NeoStrata® Glycolic Mousse Cleanser

Exfoliating toners are specifically formulated to gently exfoliate the skin, remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote radiant skin. Dr Webster recommends:

• Beaut™ Power Potion
• Obagi Clenziderm Pore Therapy
• Hyaestic BHA 2% Pore Refining

Exfoliating moisturisers provide hydration to the skin while also gently exfoliating and promoting skin renewal. Dr Webster recommends:

• Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Smoothing Moisture Treatment
• NeoStrata® Glycolic Renewal Smoothing Cream

Targeted treatments ensure that you focus only on the areas that need exfoliation, reducing the risk of over-exfoliation or irritating healthy skin. Dr Webster recommends:

• PCA Skin Revitalizing Mask
• SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator
• Dermaceutic Mask 15