Exfoliating - The Essential Skincare Step We're Missing

photo credit @noorschauten

This is why you should be adding an exfoliant to your skincare regime.

While you may think that you have the perfect skincare regime downpat, a skincare routine without exfoliating means your skin isn't as fresh and glowing as it could be. So what is it about exfoliating that makes it such an essential step when cleaning your skin?

Firstly, let's talk about what exfoliation actually is. Exfoliating involves removing dead skin cells that lay upon the skin's surface. This can be achieved either physically through using abrasive scrubs or chemically by using scrubs that are formulated with acids such as AHA or BHA that will remove dead skin cells without actually scrubbing. Once you exfoliate, you are allowing moisturising products and serums to absorb more deeply into the skin making your whole skincare regime as effective as can be.

Exfoliating is vital because cell regeneration slows down as we get older, meaning that it takes longer for new skin cells to generate and for old skin cells to shed. Your skin will be left looking dry and dull if old skin cells are not removed. On top of this, your skin produces sweat, oils and a build up of dirt throughout the day and without this vital step you are leaving your skin prone to clogged pores and excess oils leading to pimples and other nasties.

The Benefits of Exfoliating your skin

• Control excess sebum production
• Unclogs pores
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Lightens hyperpigmentation
• Brightens skin
• Improves skin clarity

Now you may be thinking what exfoliator should you be using or how often should you be exfoliating? Well, as skin experts we will take the guesswork out for you and help you find the right exfoliator for your skin type.

Here are our top 5 exfoliators

1) Asap Daily Exfoliating Facial Scrub

The Asap Daily Exfoliating Facial Scrub ideal for congested skin. Enriched with powerful AHAs, this exfoliant will remove dead skin cells and improve the overall appearance and texture of your skin. The exfoliating beads will help in generating skin renewal leaving your skin looking and feeling its best. Suitable for all skin types, particularly congested, aged and sun damaged skin.

2) Skinsitut Glycolic Scrub 14%

The Skinstitut Glycolic Scrub 14% is a powerful scrub that will deeply clean pores and exfoliate the skin. Glycolic acid helps to loosen the glue-like substance that holds dead skin cells together allowing for your skin to appear brighter and smoother. Formulated with jojoba beads to open follicles and remove cellular debris. Use nightly and suitable for all skin types especially aging and congested skin.

3) Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

The Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is a gentle rice based powder formula that is activated upon contact with water. This microfoliant removes surface debris and will give you an overall brighter and smoother complexion allowing cell renewal to generate. Suitable for daily use and all skin types, particularly beneficial for those with sensitive skin.

4) Hunter Lab Cleansing Facial Scrub

The Hunter Lab Cleansing Facial Scrub is a 2-in-1 formulation to cleanse, detoxify and smooth the skin. Formulated with antioxidant-rich ingredients and the inclusion of sugarcane enhances skin renewal benefits allowing for a more refined skin appearance. Suitable for daily use and suitable for all skin types, particularly those with normal to dry skin.

5) Thalgo Eveil A La Mer Gentle Exfoliator

The Thalgo Eveil A La Mer Gentle Exfoliator is enriched with Sève Bleue des Océans which is deal for those with sensitive and dry skin types. Jojoba oil microbeads gently exfoliate the skin while rice phytic acid will assist in refining the texture of the skin and give you an overall radiant complexion.