While our skin typically goes through a 28-day cycle – starting with new cells born at the deepest level of the epidermis and resulting in shedding on the skin’s surface – as we get older and are exposed to more environmental aggressors this process begins to slow down and may require a little helping hand. Cue: face exfoliators.
Eliminating dead cells, these complexion champions target a wide range of skin care concerns from diminishing dryness and dullness to helping to prevent blemishes by unclogging pores… simply put, there’s not much face exfoliators can’t do!
Paying homage to these skin care saviours, here at Cult Beauty we’ve uncovered everything you need to know – including exactly how to exfoliate your face and how often you should be doing it. Plus, we’ll go through our picks of the best face exfoliators depending on your skin type.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF EXFOLIATING
Unclogging pores: when you exfoliate, you’re brushing away dead skin cells and effectively unclogging pores. Not only does this step help to eliminate excess oil; in turn it helps to reduce blemishes and blackheads for a smooth sign off.
Allows for better product absorption: by opening your pores, exfoliation also allows your skin to absorb all your beauty products more easily and efficiently (we’re talking cleansers, toners, serums and more). With nothing getting in their way, these everyday essentials can work harder to penetrate the skin’s surface and ensure better and brighter results.
Evens skin tone: as well as clearing up your complexion, exfoliating can even out your skin tone too. By banishing build-up caused by make up, pollution or other external aggressors, the formulas ensure your skin appears more uniform over time.
Brightens complexions: it’s no secret build-up is a common cause of a lacklustre complexion. But, as you exfoliate, you’re removing this tough outer layer to reveal a healthier and more radiant visage. What’s more, with the exfoliants breaking up pigmented cells and removing dryness, they also help to retain and prolong your skin’s natural glow.
Tones skin: and last, but by no means least, exfoliating also stimulates collagen synthesis to improve the look of your complexion’s texture, and keep the skin feeling plump, tight and toned.
WHAT DIFFERENT TYPES OF EXFOLIANTS ARE THERE
Before we dive how to exfoliate your face, it’s important to understand which formula is right for you and your skin type. Exfoliators come in many (well, three) different guises, so it’s key to understand how decipher them to know which is best for your specific concern…
01 PHYSICAL EXFOLIATION
Taking a top-down approach, physical exfoliators lift dead skin cells directly from the outer layer of the dermis. Containing tiny grains (usually finely ground ‘organic matter’ such as nuts, seeds, sugar, silica or even coffee), they’re typically made into an oily balm or gel texture. Alternatively, they can be specialised beauty tools such as exfoliating brushes, gloves and face masks. Sloughing away the top layer of the skin, they reveal fresh cells that boost brightness and luminosity. A great starting point for those new to exfoliators, physical exfoliators are gentle and help your skin avoid irritation.
Best for: dry and blemish-prone skin