Which type of exfoliation is right for you?

There are two different types of exfoliation. First, you have a mechanical/physical form of exfoliation. This type of exfoliant uses friction to remove dead skin cells. Secondly, you have a chemical exfoliation. This type of exfoliant uses enzymes or acids. Each type have their own benefits.

Let's delve a little deeper.

A mechanical exfoliant can be a polishes, a brushe, a scrub, a washcloth or a sponge. These work by being abrasive and physically removing dead skin cells. As you can imagine this type of exfoliation is not suitable for every skin. If you have an ageing skin, breakouts or a sensitive skin you may wish to avoid this type of exfoliation. With a mechanical exfoliant you are only working on the surface of the skin, however, it can be very harsh and you may only want to use this form a exfoliation once or twice a week.

A chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, can be used in the form of a face wash, a leave on toner, a masque, a serum or a just a exfoliant in its own right. A chemical exfoliant will work by dissolving the dead skin cells or breaking the bounds that hold them together. Often this form of exfoliation will tingle on the skin. Some are to be washed off after a desired time frame, others are gentle enough to be left of the skin. The benefit of a chemical exfoliant is that it will work down into the follicle (which is especially great for blackhead and congestion). Ingredients that would indicate that your exfoliant is a chemical exfoliant are glycolic acid and salicylic acid.


Our skin naturally desquamates (sheds dead skin cells). Exfoliation is great to aid this natural process.

As we age the time that it takes for a fresh new skin cell to harden and sloth off takes longer. On overage it takes around 30 days for this process to happen, but from the age of 30 it can take a further day for each year that you age. Meaning, when you are 40 the cycle of your skin cell, from new to shedding can take around 40 days. This can leave the skin looking dull, dry and lack luster. By exfoliating your skin you not only remove dead skin cells, but, also brighten your skin. Exfoliation will stimulation the growth of new cells and can help products to be absorbed.


This step in your home care or professional treatment is often what gives you instant results, leaving your skin looking glowing. You will find that the exfoliation used by your skin therapy will be stronger thus giving better results.


There is, however, such a thing as too much exfoliation. This can lead to an impaired barrier and you will see signs of irritation and dehydration. We would always recommend that you consult a skin expert who can help you choose the right exfoliation and frequency for your skin type.