Not all exfoliators are good for the skin

Over use of exfoliators could be damaging the skins barrier function resulting in a number of issues. Are you exfoliating correctly? or are you over-exfoliating?

Exfoliation is where you remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. There are several ways to exfoliate; chemically, using a granule substance or use of an exfoliation tool. Some methods are better than others.

Our skin naturally sheds dead skin cells through a process called desquamation. New skin cells can take 28-40 days to come to surface. Cell turnover rate changes throughout our life.

Why should we exfoliate?

The reason we tend to exfoliate, is because as we age, our cell turnover slows down, resulting in; dullness, more visible wrinkles and clogged/enlarged pores.

We loose that glow/brightness that we had when we were younger. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, resulting in healthier and brighter skin leaving the skin rejuvenated. Removing dead skin cells also helps the penetration of your skin care. If you have acne prone skin – exfoliation not only helps with clogged pores, which often leads to breakouts. Exfoliating also helps fade acne scars.

Can you over exfoliate?

Yes you can over exfoliate – over exfoliation can lead to a number of issues; irritation, redness, inflamed skin and a break down of the skins barrier function. This will eventually lead to a dry and flaky complexion. Incorrect exfoliation will leave the skin feeling dry, thin and waxy looking. If your skin is being exfoliated correctly it will leave a healthy glow and be left feeling plump, rejuvenated and moisturised.

What are the best methods of facial exfoliation and are there any you should avoid?

You should avoid all sugar scrubs even homemade ones – these granular methods are too harsh for the facial skin, leading to tears in the skin especially if using regularly. This will leave the skin with the same side effects of someone who is over exfoliating, damaging your skins barrier function.

At the Banwell Clinic we recommend the use of Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids, to encourage cell turnover and chemically exfoliate the skin as used in our Rationale treatments and advanced skincare, without the use of harsh abrasives.

Alpha Hydroxy  Acids such as Glycolic, Lactic and fruit acids are water soluble and will give a smoother, fresher and more luminous complexion whilst nurturing collagen and elastin synthesis. Beta Hydroxy Acid (eg. Salicylic Acid) is oil soluble and will penetrate follicles to help exfoliate debris and unclog pores. Assisting the prevention of breakouts and oily shine….ideal for acne sufferers.

We also recommend microdermabrasion as this facial will gently exfoliate treating a wide range of skin concerns, allowing little to no down time. Results are visible after your first treatment leaving your skin smooth and glowing. Crystal Clears crystals will gently lift dead skin cells and the vacuum action removes the crystals and dead skin cells to leave the skin refreshed.

If you would like more tips of exfoliating please do not hesitate to contact us, remember after you exfoliate,  always moisturise appropriately and to avoid over-exfoliating always follow your aestheticians instructions for your skin type to avoid damaging your skin.