CONNECTOR.AE 46 CONNECTOR.AE 47 Health and Wellness Health and Wellness likely to cause irritation. Using both types is okay and can bring great results, but it’s always better to consider your skin type and condition before exfoliating. Chemical Exfoliation: Chemical exfoliation involves using substances like hydroxy acids and retinol, combined with enzymes, to rejuvenate the skin. While DIY and over-thecounter scrubs can enhance skin appearance, chemical exfoliation offer more dramatic results. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), derived from fruits, peel away the skin surface, addressing issues like hyperpigmentation and fine lines. Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), like salicylic acid, target oil and unclog pores, making them effective for acne treatment. Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, protect the skin, promote collagen, and are used for sun damage and aging. Consulting a dermatologist is advisable for proper chemical exfoliation. Physical Exfoliation: Any exfoliating method or product that involves manual scrubbing or rubbing is known as a physical exfoliant. You might already be using physical exfoliants like cleansing scrubs, body brushes, or loofahs. The benefit of physical exfoliation is that it’s easy to do at home, using simple items like a wash cloth or a DIY scrub, and shows immediate results. However, if done incorrectly, it can irritate the skin and lead to water loss. Using a serum afterward helps reduce irritation and locks in moisture. Materials for manual exfoliation include scrubs, mitts, brushes, loofahs, pumice stones, and more. Givingmore clarity on this, Mukta Purain, CoFounder of Miss Palettable, leading skincare brand, adds, “If you deal with sensitive dry skin, using a gentle chemical exfoliant will probably be safer for you. Physical exfoliants can be quite harsh on the skin, whereas a gentle glycolic acid exfoliant would suit dry skin better, and a gentle exfoliant with fruit enzymes would suit sensitive skin better. For those who have normal, combination or oily skin, you can work with physical and chemical exfoliants depending on your preference. When Should You Exfoliate For healthy skin, it’s vital to include exfoliation in your skincare routine. It’s not just your face that needs it; your hands and legs do too. You can exfoliate your body once or twice a week, depending on your skin care routine. For example, if your skin looks dull in the morning, exfoliating before you start your day can be helpful. On the other hand, exfoliating at night is good as it helps you get rid of makeup and dust on your skin. Lastly, if you use any product for a skin condition, ensure you give some time between using that product and exfoliating. It’s necessary to be careful and not exfoliate if you have cuts or open sores on your skin. Dr. Ruhil Badiani, Family Physician from Cornerstone Clinic adds, “Tailoring your exfoliation routine to your specific skin type is crucial for optimal results. For normal/ combination skin, 2-3 times a week with both physical and chemical exfoliants is suitable. Oily skin benefits from 3 times a week using chemical exfoliants like salicylic or glycolic acid. Dry or sensitive skin should exfoliate 1-2 times a week with gentle options. Mature/aging skin can consider 2-3 times a week with a mix of chemical exfoliants. Acne-prone skin benefits from 2-3 times a week with salicylic acid. Even normal to resilient skin should be cautious not to overdo it. Over-exfoliation may lead to irritation, redness, dryness, increased sensitivity, breakouts, and sun sensitivity.” Products To Use For Exfoliation Sometimes, we’re drawn to popular brands or recommendations when choosing exfoliation products. While that’s not entirely wrong, we may overlook the fact that these products might not be suitable for our skin. It’s crucial to know your skin type and its needs before buying any product. Highlighting more about this, Dr. Ruhil Badiani, Family Physician from Cornerstone Clinic, adds, “Skincare is highly personal, and what benefits your friend’s skin may not necessarily suit yours. My suggestion is to introduce new products gradually. Avoid incorporating a new exfoliant and moisturiser simultaneously to pinpoint any potential reactions. Keep your skincare routine straightforward and simple, and consult your doctor if you have uncertainties. It’s worth noting that the effectiveness of skincare products isn’t always correlated with their price; some of the most reliable brands can be found at your local pharmacy. How To Choose The Right Kind Of Exfoliation Method Choosing the right exfoliation method depends on your skin type. If your skin is sensitive or prone to acne, it’s crucial to consult a doctor first to determine the suitable exfoliation approach. For normal to oily skin, using home made scrubs with ingredients like honey, sugar, coffee, turmeric, and milk twice a week is a good option. Those with combination skin should focus on each area separately and use different products as needed. Regardless of your skin type, consulting a dermatologist is essential for proper guidance. Adding to this, Dr. Ruhil Badiani, Family Physician from Cornerstone Clinic, says, “Excessive exfoliation can pose risks such as irritation, redness, dryness, and increased sensitivity, compromising the skin barrier. To select the right exfoliant, understand your skin type, identify specific concerns, start with a cautious approach, choose the preferred formulation, and read product ingredients, considering factors like acids and pH levels. It’s crucial to tailor your exfoliation routine to your unique skin needs for optimal results and avoid potential side effects.”
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