Exfoliation is a ritual that helps to maintain and preserve the skin of both the body and face. Despite its many benefits, its use has also been scrutinised, leading to the emergence of numerous misconceptions. In this article, discover the answers to the questions you may have about exfoliation.
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Fact and fiction about exfoliation.
Summary
- Exfoliants are too harsh
- Exfoliation is a treatment with multiple effects
- A scrub specifically designed for a particular area
- An exfoliation on dry or damp skin is equivalent
- Exfoliating oily skin is unnecessary
- It is recommended to exfoliate every day
Published August 22, 2023,
updated on August 8, 2024,
by
Manon, Scientific Editor
—
5 min read
Exfoliants are too harsh.
False. Scrubs are often referred to as treatments that are too harsh and abrasive for the skin. However, a quality scrub favours fairly fine grains that do not harm the skin and allow for gentle exfoliation. Avoid scrubs with grains that are too large or irregularly shaped, like sugar, as these can be too abrasive for the skin.
At Typology, our scrubs contain apricot kernel powder which is very fine and gently removes dead skin cells. The natural hardness of the apricot kernels gives them a high exfoliating efficiency. Moreover, this apricot powder does not have any contraindications. Pregnant and/or breastfeeding women as well as young children can use it.
In regards to scalp scrubs , we have favoured jojoba beads, spherical mechanical exfoliants that stimulate microcirculation of the blood, and silica powder which are 100% natural mineral exfoliating particles offering micro-exfoliation in respect of the scalp.
Exfoliation is a treatment with multiple effects.
True. Known for exfoliating the skin, scrubbing is often referred to as a multi-effect treatment. It helps to remove impurities and dead cells, thereby stimulating cellular renewal. It promotes skin purification and clears the pores, allowing for proper sebum evacuation and preventing the appearance of blemishes. The scrub also significantly improves the absorption of skincare products. Thus, your skin becomes smooth and regains its natural glow.
A scrub specifically designed for a particular area.
True. There are different formulas depending on the area you wish to exfoliate. While the skin on the body can have a thicker texture, the skin on the face is thinner and more sensitive. It is preferable to opt for facial scrubs containing a low quantity of particles and/or spherical micro-grains to preserve the delicacy of the facial skin.
Regarding the body, it is recommended to use a scrub more concentrated in exfoliating grains and/or with particles of a larger size than those present in the facial scrub, as the skin is thicker and less sensitive than that of the face.
An exfoliation on dry or damp skin is equivalent.
True and false. When it comes to applying a scrub, the question of whether to apply it on dry or damp skin often arises, as this can affect its effectiveness. However, there is no definitive answer as it all depends on the formulation of the product. It is recommended to follow the instructions provided on the packaging. Our scrubs, for example, are used on dry skin.
Exfoliating oily skin is unnecessary.
False. It is often said that scrubs are not suitable for oily skin. However, these treatments are suitable for all skin types, including oily skin. Indeed, oily skin is generally characterised by a shiny and oily appearance due to an overproduction of sebum. Sebum, produced by the sebaceous glands, plays a role in skin protection. However, an excess of sebum or hyperseborrhoea can create an environment conducive to the formation of blackheads and pimples. The use of a gentle scrub can remove excess sebum and restore the skin's natural glow.
Which exfoliant should you choose for oily skin?
To avoid any risk of irritation, it is recommended not to use grainy scrubs. Indeed, mechanical exfoliation may cause further skin irritations. Instead, favour enzyme peels or scrubs which are gentler treatments but just as effective for exfoliating the skin.
It is recommended to exfoliate every day.
False. The notion of exfoliating your skin daily is a common misconception, as it is believed to cleanse the skin deeply and tighten the pores. Although the frequency of using a scrub varies depending on the skin type, it is still strongly advised against using it daily. Exfoliating every day does not provide more effectiveness. On the contrary, it may harm your skin. For the face, a weekly exfoliating treatment is usually sufficient. Those with normal to combination skin can perform up to two scrubs per week. However, for those with sensitive or mature skin, it is preferable to limit exfoliation to once a week or even every two weeks depending on the feeling and necessity.
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