Gentle exfoliation is important when it comes to maintaining healthy skin as it helps to clean up any backlog of debris that can build up in the skin follicles. It can also help to stimulate circulation and cell turnover, which can give the skin a more healthy and glowing appearance. Exfoliation can be beneficial for a variety of skin types, especially for acne, congested and sun damaged skins. In this blog post, we will be outlining 5 things you need to know about gentle exfoliation so you can get the glowing skin you deserve.
Why is gentle exfoliation important?
Did you know that we shed around 600,000 skin cells a day? That means based on a healthy skin cell cycle of around 25-35 days, those 15 million skin cells will be gone with the wind in a few weeks time. Pretty amazing hey?
But what happens when skin cells don’t shed the way they are supposed to?
Different factors such as medications, hormones, weather, harsh skincare ingredients, sun exposure or the condition of your skin barrier could interfere with your skin's ability to desquamate cells at a healthy rate. This can lead to clogged pores and dry, rough-textured skin. That’s why it is important to ensure you address your skin condition with safe & healthy levels of exfoliation.
1. There are three different types of exfoliation
When it comes to exfoliating your skin there are three different ways that are commonly used and include physical, chemical, and Enzymatic exfoliation.
Enzymatic exfoliation is a gentle, non-abrasive form of exfoliation that can be used on all skin types, even sensitive skin. Enzymatic exfoliators are typically formulated with natural ingredients such as papaya, pineapple or pumpkin which act as natural AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) that help to break down and remove dead skin cells, whilst delivering a boost of antioxidants to the skin.
Physical exfoliation in terms of skincare usually means ingredients that offer up a physical component used to remove dead skin cells and exfoliate the skin (micro beads, plastic, coffee, sugar etc). Whilst this method can feel as though it’s giving you the deep clean you desire, it’s important to remember that not all physical components are skin-safe or environmentally-friendly. Misuse can cause irritation or small micro-tears in the surface layer of the skin.
At Bare Roots, we use Bamboo Stem Extract as the physical component in our Bamboo Enzyme Peel. Not only is this gentle micro polish rich in silica (fundamental for collagen synthesis & tissue support), but it is environmentally friendly too.
Chemical exfoliation works by utilising constituents such as AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) and BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) to loosen the surface skin cells and peel away any surface pigmentation, rough spots & clean out blocked pores. These ingredients can be quite astringent and should always be used under the guidance of a skin professional.
We are proud to say that Bare Roots has developed a professional & organic Plant Peel, that is in a league of its own. Not only will this peel provide the max dose of natural AHA exfoliation, it is infused with deeply hydrating ingredients such as PGA & Hyaluronic Acid to allow your skin to maintain integrity & suppleness, with no downtime. Experience this amazing product by booking in with your local stockist.
2. The amount of exfoliation depends on your skin type
Wondering how often you should exfoliate? Well, that really depends on your skin type and also the type of exfoliation you have chosen.
Bamboo Enzyme Peel: can be used once a week for most skins, and up to twice a week for Acne or Sun Damaged skins. Seek professional guidance if you have broken or barrier compromised skin, as we will need to look at rebuilding your barrier to a sufficient place before tolerating exfoliation.
Plant Peel: professional treatments should take place once a week, for a course of 6-8 treatments. After this, maintenance levels would be desirable. This peel is suitable for most skins, however extra caution should be applied to those with broken or barrier compromised skin.
If in doubt, reach out to us and we can chat about your skin.
3. You should be exfoliating in the evening
It may be tempting to reach for your exfoliating product first thing in the morning to leave your skin refreshed, but it is actually recommended to exfoliate your skin in the evening. This allows the skin to repair and regenerate itself overnight and also allows you to remove any dirt, makeup, and debris from the pores that have built up throughout the day.
4. Peels are perfect for gentle exfoliation
When you think of exfoliation you may instantly think of a scrub or exfoliation mitt but did you know that enzyme peels are an effective form of gentle exfoliation, as they can help to remove the top layer of dead skin cells and reveal the fresh, new skin underneath. They also help to unclog pores, reduce acne, and improve skin tone and texture. If you’re looking to incorporate an exfoliating peel into your routine, our Bamboo Enzyme Peel is made with creamy clay, plant enzymes, and bamboo extract which gently removes rough-textured surface cells without causing excess exfoliation of the skin.
5. Exfoliation should be supported by a nourishing skincare routine
Although exfoliation is a powerful skin treatment it is important to remember that your skin barrier needs to be taken care of by building a nourishing and simple skincare routine. By using Australian, toxin-free skincare such as Bare Roots, you’re giving your skin the best chance, providing it with what it wants and needs to glow. Our Nourish Collection includes 6 key COSMOS certified organic products that promote a healthy complexion including a milk facial cleanser that cleanses and calms irritated, stressed, or dry skin and our Bamboo Enzyme Peel mentioned earlier that is a toxin-free and provides a gentle enzymatic exfoliating peel.
Overall, exfoliation is key to encouraging healthy skin cell shedding and promoting an overall glowing skin complexion however you must always remember…
- Do not over-exfoliate your skin.
- Seek professional guidance where necessary
- Leave your exfoliation to the evening
- Support your exfoliation with a simple & nourishing skincare routine.
If you’re wanting professional skincare here in Australia then it’s time to discover our range of toxin-free skincare - Shop now
