To scrub or not to scrub-that is the question

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Hello Everyone! Welcome to our first Body & Mind blog!

We cannot wait to start seeing you all on April 12th and getting back to some form of normality!

We’ve all been keeping in touch and discussing some of the topics we often get asked about. One topic that always comes up and a lot of clients seem in the dark about is exfoliation, why should I exfoliate? What does it do? What exfoliator is suitable for my skin type?

So, we thought we would give you a quick insight into why it is an important part of your skin routine.

To scrub or not to scrub-that is the question…

From funky face sponges to state of the art cleansing brushes, there is no shortage of exfoliating solutions. Exfoliation is a key part in skincare because it removes dead skin cells from the surface. These cells dull skin, clog pores, and can even cause your face to appear flaky and rough. Not so nice!

A gentle exfoliation once or twice a week means that these dead cells are tackled, leaving the fresh skin underneath to glow. As we age, our cell turnover rate slows down, leaving those dead skin cells on the surface for longer. This means exfoliation is even more important through the years! Collagen is a naturally-occurring protein that is responsible for making your skin look plump and full. Over time, Collagen starts to deplete, giving way to fine lines and wrinkles.

While it is almost impossible to change the size of the pores, you can minimise their appearance by getting rid of the built-up dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. While there are varying benefits when it comes to using physical or chemical sloughing options, it’s important to consider the right one for your skin type.

 What is a Physical exfoliant?

A physical exfoliant is a product or tool that requires rubbing or scrubbing action. These include your skincare scrubs, brushes, sponges, loofahs and muslin wash cloths. This type of exfoliation nudges the loose dead skin cells from the topmost layer of the skin using physical friction.

 What is a Chemical Exfoliant?
Chemical exfoliation means using chemicals to dissolve the dead skin surface cells.

The most common chemical exfoliators include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), like glycolic acid and lactic acid, and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), like salicylic acid.

Which exfoliant is right for me?

DRY SKIN:

Exfoliation is as equally important for dry skin types; exfoliating will remove the build-up of dry and flaky skin. Focus your efforts around chemical exfoliation and optimise AHA’s, especially glycolic acid which is gentle yet effective. Glycolic will remove the dead skin cells and encourage a healthy cell turnover.

SENSITIVE SKIN:

Stay clear of physical exfoliation, the mechanical brushing will only irritate your skin further. Use a mild chemical exfoliant that is designed for sensitive skin.

NORMAL SKIN:

With skin types that have little to no complications, you can choose between physical and chemical exfoliation.

 OILY SKIN:

Oilier skin types generally have thicker skin and can therefore withstand a physical exfoliation that can break the extra build up. However, be gentle as to not tear the layers of your skin and if so opt for a chemical exfoliant that will break down the build-up and target your concerns if you experience break outs.

 ACNE-PRONE SKIN:

Chemical exfoliation is your strongest ally and prioritising BHA’s especially with salicylic acid as its primary ingredient will benefit your skin. Penetrating your skin’s layers, BHAs will target and breakdown clogged pores, excess sebum and enlarged pores that can all lead to future breakouts.

 So there we have it! a quick guide to exfoliant’s! All of our Therapist’s are Dermalogica Experts and will be happy to guide you in the right direction of treatment’s/products that are right for you!

Body & Mind x

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