How can I get healthy skin? This question is probably asked the most often to estheticians and dermatologists. Having glowing, and smooth skin helps meet the prevailing standard of flawless and healthy skin, while providing radiating confidence. We have been using a variety of methods to get clear, soft, and healthy skin for ages. There are a lot of natural remedies, cosmetics, and medications to achieve this goal. Incorporating a step for exfoliation in your skincare regimen is one of the most effective ways to get glowing and smooth skin in a very short time.

What is exfoliation?

The process of removing dead skin cells from the outermost surface of the skin to achieve healthy and smooth skin is defined as exfoliation. It can show results in a very short time, which is why it used in all kinds of facials and skincare procedures. Several brands on the market can be used conveniently. We can use both chemical or physical exfoliators to slough off dead skin cells.

Benefits of exfoliation

Is exfoliation beneficial? Or does it harm the skin? These questions might strike your mind at times. Exfoliation is the most effective way to eliminate dead skin cells that make the skin appear look dull, rough, and chapped. Nowadays, having healthy and baby-soft and smooth skin is considered the perfect beauty standard that everyone wants to meet at some point during their skincare journey. Some of the significant benefits of exfoliation are listed below:

• Exfoliation removes the dead skin cells that can ruin skin appearance.
• Exfoliation helps the new skin layer to appear; this is typically covered in dead skin cells.
• Exfoliation helps promote blood circulation, which results in healthy skin.
• Exfoliation makes the skin soft, smooth and glowing.
• It does not require a long time to achieve smooth skin.

What is the difference between physical and chemical exfoliation?

Physical exfoliation is done by scrubbing the skin with cosmetics or a natural exfoliator with granular particles like baking soda, finely ground sugar, ground coffee, sea salt, oatmeal, etc. If you are scrubbing and rubbing products on your skin to remove dead skin cells, you are performing physical exfoliation, also known as manual exfoliation.

How to use physical exfoliators: After cleansing, apply the preferred scrub to the skin, gently rub in a circular motion for about 60 seconds, and wash it off.

On the other hand, using chemicals instead of a scrub to remove dead skin cells is known as chemical exfoliation.

When you hear the word “chemical”, you might think of a harsh process and try to push it away as an option; but the reality is that it is not harsh at all. In fact, chemical exfoliation is particularly helpful for sensitive skin types. Physical scrubbing removes dead skin cells, exposing the baby-soft skin underneath; however, it can produce minor tears that can aggravate sensitive skin. Therefore, for this skin type, chemical exfoliation is usually more suitable. It does not require any manual scrubbing, using a hand or tool. For chemical exfoliation, Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) and Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) are generally used. The chemical does wonders on its own as it removes dead skin cells.

How to use chemical exfoliators: Chemical exfoliators typically come in toner, essence or wash-off mask formulations. All you need to do is to apply them as you normally would for the particular product. For example, the toner is to be applied after the cleansing step using a cotton pad or the fingertips. There is no need for manual scrubbing as you would do with physical exfoliators – just leave them to do their magic!

How often should I exfoliate?

Exfoliation brings out a new baby skin layer after removing the covering of dead skin cells. It helps in skin regeneration and rejuvenation. However, exfoliating daily might cause irritation, as it thins and compromises the skin barrier. To prevent this from happening, exfoliate only 1-2 times per week. Exfoliating more often is not beneficial and can often lead to dryness, redness, tenderness, and itchiness. An exception is an exfoliating toner, which is a milder formula and is gentle enough to use twice a day.

Exfoliation for dry and sensitive skin types

For dry and sensitive skin types, physical or manual skin exfoliators that require scrubbing are not suitable. Instead, opt for a mild skin toner containing AHA/BHA or a chemical exfoliator like salicylic peel if you have acne for the best results. Korean skincare products are gentle and suitable for all skin types.

Exfoliation for the body?

Our body also needs care like the face, and exfoliation does the job. Our skin automatically renews every 28 days and a new skin layer develops. At a younger age, this process happens automatically, but with age, it slows down. Because of dust and oil, we might have clogged pores and flaky skin. To eliminate an uneven skin texture, remove dead skin cells and to keep the skin soft and smooth, exfoliating the body is a must.

You can use a brush, sponge, or glove scrubs to exfoliate the skin on your body. Various scrubs and peels to exfoliate the arms and feet are also now available. Chemical exfoliators can also be used for the body to target "backne" or other rough skin. A foot peel can be used to exfoliate callouses and dead skin for baby soft feet.

Product Recommendations:

Isntree Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence

A beautiful chemical exfoliant formulated with 4% glycolic acid and 4% lactic acid (both AHAs) that can be used 1-3 times per week for smoother skin texture. This works incredibly well to improve the skin’s radiance.

Beauty of Joseon Bubble Toner: Green Plum + AHA

This chemical exfoliator is enriched with 25% green plum water (a naturally derived AHA) and 3% glycolic acid. Its low concentration of AHA makes it gentle enough to use twice a day without causing irritation.

Bellflower Pineapple PHA Peeling Toner

Suitable for sensitive skin types, this gentle toner exfoliates without irritating the skin and can be used twice a day.

SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

This toner contains AHA, BHA, and PHA that effectively exfoliate to leave radiant and clean skin after use. Incorporate this gentle formula in your morning and evening skincare routine to get soft baby skin in 30 days.

Beauty of Joseon Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel

This moisturising peeling gel with apricot blossom supports cell renewal and combats signs of aging. It gently removes dead skin cells as well as unclogs your pores, leaving the skin supple and radiant. It is a mild physical exfoliator suitable for all skin types.

The Bottom Line

Exfoliation is the answer to most skincare problems. Moreover, exfoliation, when incorporated into a skincare routine, can do wonders for your skin. Using correct products and methods as per your skin type can get you glowing and smooth skin, with patience and consistency. With exfoliation you can achieve that smooth glass skin you have always wanted because you can - and you deserve this.