Why Should You Invest in Chemical Exfoliation For Healthy Skin?

The term ‘chemical exfoliation’ has almost become a sensation in the world of skincare in present times. According to skincare experts, chemical exfoliation is one of the most important steps of skincare. With the increasing pollution and changing weather conditions, chemical exfoliation has become an important part of our daily skincare routine. The ultraviolet rays of the sun and humidity have detrimental effects on the skin. Our skin gradually starts showing signs of pigmentation, age spots, sun spots, freckles, fine lines, wrinkles, and more. Chemical exfoliation refers to the removal of dead cells from the skin by the use of acids or chemical exfoliants which restore the health of the skin.

Why is chemical exfoliation an important step in skincare? 

Every month, our skin goes through a process of regeneration. As a result, dead skin cells often accumulate on the skin surface resulting in clogging of the pores, acne, skin irritation, and other issues. Chemical exfoliation dissolves the dead skin cells and promotes healthy skin. It unclogs the pores allowing skin products to penetrate the skin. This process also produces collagen which replenishes, brightens the skin, and leaves a youthful radiance. Apart from nourishing the skin, chemical exfoliation evens out skin tone, improves the complexion, diminishes wrinkles and fine lines, and removes sunspots.

How are Chemical Exfoliants different from Physical Ones?

Physical exfoliants such as scrubs are textured with tiny particles that remove dead skin cells and impurities from the surface. These show instant results and make your skin soft and smooth.  Physical exfoliants are applied after washing the face with a gentle cleanser. After the application, you need to clean it with water. On the other hand, chemical exfoliators do not contain physical particles. They are made up of gentle acids that peel away dead cells, improve cell turnover and diminish usual signs of aging. Chemical exfoliators are found in toners, serums, and cleansers and do not have harsh scrubbing particles. Many often prefer physical exfoliators as the results can be seen instantly. Physical exfoliators could be a bit abrasive and might result in micro-tears on the surface of the skin. These often snatch the natural oils from the skin and cause skin irritation. Physical exfoliants often have large molecules which result in redness, dryness, uneven skin tone, and more. The most common forms of chemical exfoliators available are AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids). According to experts, the results of chemical exfoliation are more uniform when compared to physical exfoliation. However, before opting for chemical exfoliation, you need to have a fair understanding of your skin type and its needs.

Chemical Exfoliants and skin types

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)- These include citric, glycolic, malic, and lactic acid and can penetrate to the deepest layers of the skin. The correct dosage would have a concentration of 5 to 10 percent of AHAs. These can dissolve in water easily and improve the skin texture thereby removing wrinkles and signs of sun damage. But people with sensitive skin should avoid using AHAa acid. If you have excessively dry skin, you should opt for AHAs as they work on the skin surface and lock the moisture.

Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs)– These are easily soluble in water, penetrate your pores and work wonders on the skin. Using this, you can feel a remarkable difference in the texture of your skin. These also help in unclogging pores and removing inflammation or other signs of acne. Some of the examples include tropic acid and salicylic acid. These are suitable for people with sensitive skin. The ones with oily and acne-prone skin should use salicylic acid to prevent breakouts.

Poly hydroxy acids (PHAs)- Known as a gentle exfoliator, PHAs have molecules that are larger than AHAs. These include gluconolactone, galactose, and lactobionic acid. These are especially perfect for people with sensitive skin.