Everything About Chemical Exfoliation and Its Benefits
Usually, the skin cells naturally undergo cell turnover cycles at intervals by shedding dead skin cells to ensure a healthy life span. But factors like aging and sun exposure slow down this regeneration process, making the skin susceptible to breakouts or premature aging.
However, this is where exfoliation comes in. Exfoliation is an artificial way of removing dead skin cells. This method has been beneficial for many decades in brightening complexion, helping with acne scar removal and other skincare benefits.
There are two types of exfoliation which are chemical and physical exfoliation. Physical exfoliation involves using abrasives like a brush to scrape off dead skin cells from the body, while chemical exfoliation involves using acids.
In recent years, chemical exfoliation is becoming more rampant in the skincare industry, and some people are still confused about how it benefits the skin.
Join us in our article today as we expose you to chemical exfoliation!
What is Chemical Exfoliation?
Chemical exfoliation is the process of using acids as exfoliants to remove dead skin cells from the body. It comes in diverse concentrations. The less concentrated formula can be purchased in skincare shops, while the strong concentrated ones are strictly applied only by licensed skincare professionals or a dermatologist as a chemical peel.
Chemical exfoliation works by breaking the bonds holding the skin cells together. Once these bonds are broken, the outer layer part of the skin cells automatically sheds off while revealing much younger skin. If performed as needed, the skin will look fresh and smooth. And you'll have a lower tendency to develop clogged pores or premature aging signs.
Types of Chemical Exfoliant Acids
There are three major kinds of chemical exfoliant acids: AHA, BHA and PHA. They vary in terms of penetrative capabilities. Now, let's look at them:
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Under AHAs, we have glycolic, citric, lactic and malic acids. Typically, they can be obtained naturally from fruits or produced artificially. Since they are water-soluble and most effective on skin surfaces, they improve textures by shedding dead skin cells.
Glycolic and lactic acids are most common in skin care among alpha hydroxy acids (AHA). Generally, AHAs are good for improving skin tone and unifying slight discoloration.
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
BHAs are popularly known for being oil-soluble. Unlike AHAs, they go beyond the skin surfaces to penetrate deeper into the pores. They include salicylic and tropic acid.
Once applied, not only do they improve the skin texture, but they also help in removing dirt or excess oil that may have clogged the pores. Hence, they are excellent exfoliators on acne-prone skin for sebum removal.
Poly Hydroxy Acids (PHAs)
Like AHAs, poly hydroxy acids (PHAs) cannot penetrate very deep into the skin. They have larger molecules and are most effective on the surface.
In the skincare industry, they are considered less irritating or powerful than other chemical exfoliants, except for AHAs. Hence, they may be advisable for very sensitive skin. Also, another exciting aspect of PHAs is their extra hydrating and antioxidant capability that can benefit the skin significantly.
If you are confused about what type of chemical acid exfoliant is best for you, kindly book a free consultation or send us a message on our social media platforms.
Benefits Of Chemical Exfoliation
Just like every other skincare treatment, chemical exfoliation has various benefits. In fact, some professionals prefer it to physical exfoliation. Here are some of the benefits:
The first amazing benefit of chemical exfoliation is improving or facilitating the rate at which the skin cells regenerate at intervals. As we already explained, the cell turnover cycle is a process whereby the dead skin cells at the surface are removed to reveal younger skin.
Chemical exfoliants will aid the process by breaking the bond holding these cells together. Hence, the whole turnover rate cycle will be significantly enhanced for more healthy skin.
Typically, acne is triggered by clogged pores or hair follicles blocked by dirt, bacteria or dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliation can be used to treat or prevent this from happening.
For instance, chemical exfoliants like BHAs can penetrate the skin to unclog pores. Using this method will prevent possible chances of acne breakouts. In the case of treatment, it can clear the pores and surface for easy absorption of the topical products.
Since chemical exfoliation quickens cell turnover rate, the end product always reveals smooth and well-refined skin texture. Combining AHAs and vitamin C can help decrease hyperpigmentation's appearance for a more brighten complexion.
Additionally, chemical exfoliation aids new skin cell growth. It triggers the production of collagen and elastin necessary for keeping the skin tight, plump and smooth.
Since chemical exfoliation aids new skin cell growth and unveils younger skin, these benefits will help aging skin regain its youthful appearance. Being regenerative reduces the appearance of aging signs, such as age spots, wrinkles, fine lines, dry patches, etc.
For everyone wishing to stay fresh and young, we recommend undergoing periodical exfoliation to enhance your skin's regenerative capability.
Conclusion
While chemical exfoliation may sound so appealing, also bear in mind that the wrong use of it may cause damage to the skin. Ingredients like AHAs, retinol and vitamin C benefit the skin, but the wrong dosage may trigger serious skin problems.
Hence, this is why we recommend seeking the counsel of a licensed dermatologist or pro-medical esthetician before you start using chemical exfoliants. You can always book a free consultation at Gold Cosmetics & Skin Care.
If you don't have time to book physical appointments, kindly check our home-use exfoliating products –
Gold Cosmetics Peeling Gommage and Gold Cosmetics Glycolic Acid. These products can be used at home. All you need to do is follow the how-to-apply guide. Don't forget to contact us if you have further questions.
We are always happy to assist you!
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