Getting Ready for Spring with Exfoliation

Spring is close by so it’s time to get your skin ready and looking its best with some exfoliation! The ideas and feelings surrounding this season can be closely associated with the process of exfoliating and redefining the skin.

In other words, reawakening from hibernation to showcase a complexion in bloom. Transitioning our faces from heavy duty protection to full throttle radiancy. Achieve that fresh and glowy appearance just in time with our piece on all you need to know about exfoliation.

WHAT DOES EXFOLIATING DO?

The key to revealing glowing skin is through the art of exfoliation. As our natural renewal process slows down as we age, the cells move up from the bottom of the epidermis to the top. Once they reach the surface we consider these cells dead skin. If left, the dead skin cells will accumulate and result in dull, rough skin. Chemical or manual exfoliation will accelerate the renewal process whilst removing dead, keratinised and “old” skin cells from the surface to then replace them with young “new” cells. This will create smoother, softer and brighter skin.

What do you need? A good exfoliator! Over the recent years, we have seen exfoliators evolve from beaded gels and coarse scrubs to acid-based toners. Many avenues of exfoliation can be considered, these also exist in forms of facial treatments, laser procedures, microdermabrasion and chemical peels. You can achieve better-looking skin in minutes thanks to exfoliation.

To help you visualise this process better, have a look at the illustration below.

WHAT ARE HYDROXY ACIDS?

Nowadays, if a product has ‘exfoliating’ properties, it is very likely you will find AHA’s or BHA’s or both in the ingredients list. These two types of sugar and plant-derived acids are the most current and popular ingredients to exfoliate your skin – and within reason. It all comes down to a great mix of quality acids to make the best face exfoliator and achieve great skin results!

• Alpha Hydroxy Acids work brilliantly to stimulate and promote cell regeneration whilst improving skin texture and leaving the skin more even and glowing. The most common AHA’S are Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid. Sensitive skin types sway more towards Lactic Acid because Glycolic Acid is more likely to cause irritation.

•  Beta Hydroxy Acids on the other hand also exfoliates and improves skin texture but has the added blemish-fighting action to get right into the pores to purify and clear out any oil, dirt and more importantly dead skin cells that can become a breeding ground for spots to form. Salicylic Acid is a BHA to keep an eye out for; it reduces skin inflammation and is great for any congested and/or acne-prone skin.

 For further information about exfoliation and the facial acids used in Biologique Recherche’s Lotion P50 formulations, please see our post dedicated to all things acid. 

THE RESULTS

• Texture & Brightness – The accumulation of dead skin cells at the surface of the skin can cause roughness in texture and dullness in appearance. By eliminating the dead skin through exfoliation, the skin is redefined, and not only looks but feels smoother and softer. If you suspect lack-lustre skin, it might just be a case for some exfoliation.
• Purifying – The process of exfoliation can be a purifying experience for those of us who are prone to congestion.Exfoliation is a necessary step in a skincare routine, so that there is no risk of clogged pores trapped with dirt, oil and dead cells which have the potential to cause breakouts and bacterial infections.
• Cell Regeneration – By exfoliating, you are increasing and stimulating collagen production, which in turn increases cell turnover. Newer cells pushing themselves towards the surface of the skin means we have to accommodate this by making way for them via exfoliation.
• Pigmentation – Exfoliation can dramatically improve the look of dark spots and post-acne pigmentation. Continued use of correct exfoliating products with help fade and, in some cases, completely rid complexions of pigmentary spots.

 The skin is noticeably:

EVERYTHING IN MODERATION

If not careful, small scratches can be seen on the first layer of the epidermis under the microscope due to harsh exfoliators or incorrect products. This can consequently lead to sensitisation and a risk of premature ageing. Keep in mind that the skin does not need excessive amounts of exfoliation either, a common mistake is to over process the skin by exfoliating too regularly or too vigorously. Sufficient exfoliation can sometimes be achieved with just one good product. If you think your exfoliation habits have sensitised your skin, the Biosensible range can help ease the symptoms and work towards getting your skin back to a happier state.

OUR PRODUCTS FOR EXFOLIATION

At the Embassy of Beauty, we have put together a collection of results-driven exfoliators.

• Biologique Recherche is known to be one of the pioneers of chemical exfoliation through their iconic Lotion P50 range. Using a combination of AHA's and BHA's, there are various formulations to suit every skin need!

• The Lotion Alpha-Kérato Régulatrice is a booster that offers a step up from the Lotion P50. Not for the faint-hearted! This step up from the Lotion P50 is formulated to tackle the thickest of skin.

• The Crème aux Acides de Fruits uses citric fruit enzymes to create the perfect exfoliation cream for clear, smooth skin with a foolproof glow.

• The Sérum 3R renews, regenerates and repairs to offer a complete skin spring clean. The Lactobonic Acid exfoliates with ease and leaves skin feeling smoother than ever.

Happy exfoliating!