Exfoliation: Mechanical vs. Chemical

If you're like me and have combination/oily skin, then you are probably aware of how important it is to slough away dead skin than can potentially clog pores. There are actually two different methods of exfoliating away this dead skin, mechanical and chemical.

Not all mechanical exfoliating techniques are safe for the skin, they can become too abrasive and sometimes do more harm than good. For example, some exfoliators use ground apricot seeds or shells to slough away dead skin. The grounds have potential to cut the surface of the skin. There are many safe mechanical exfoliators, such as micro-beads or sugar that provide a gentle yet safe exfoliation. Mechanical exfoliation is effective in smoothing out skin texture. Microdermabrasion is a popular mechanical exfoliation treatment. Also, shaving your face (believe it or not) is an effective way to remove dead skin, however it is extremely important to use a top quality razor and to be very careful with this method.

Chemical exfoliation usually contains acids or enzymes that get rid of dead skin. Common enzymes and acids include: salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, fruit enzymes such as papaya, alpha or beta hydroxy acids (AHA and BHA). Chemical exfoliation is very effective for the treatment and prevention of acne. Finding the right chemical exfoliator for your skin can take some time because certain skin types respond better to salyclilc acid than glycolic, and vice versa. It is also important to remember that when using a chemical exfoliator, especially at home, that the product is not left on too long as to cause excessive redness and/or peeling.

My favorite exfoliator of the moment is a mechanical/chemical hybrid - Say Yes to Tomatoes Daily Pore Scrub. The chemical exfoliator in this is salicylic acid. The mechanical exfoliate is bamboo, which is very gentle, non-irritating and bead like. Also paraben-free and 97% natural, it is great for morning use to keep you skin feeling fresh throughout the day. I am also a fan of Philosophy's Purifying One Minute Peel that contains lactic acid; it's a super effective fast acting chemical exfoliate.