The outer layer of skin (epidermis) constantly replaces itself. The rate at which this process occurs defines the appearance of your skin. When you are young, cells turnover takes as little as twenty eight days, but as you grow older this process gradually slows. As a result, your skin becomes thin and fragile. The complexion of your skin becomes dull and loses its glow. Regular use of exfoliating products speeds up epidermis renewal and removes dead skin cells making your skin regain its youthful glow and enhancing the texture of your skin. This is the reason why cosmetic dermatologists recommend exfoliation to anyone over the age of twenty.
There are several kinds of exfoliating products – all-natural products made with natural extracts, scrubs and cleansers that remove dead cells mechanically, and synthetic substances.
It is important to know that the all-natural exfoliating products are not necessarily made with fresh fruit. Most often the botanical ingredient is an extract. To ensure that you get a certain amount of active components, natural extracts are standardized. These all-natural products are a great way to go.
Another way to exfoliate is to use mechanical methods by applying scrubs and cleansers with gentle abrasive ingredients such as jojoba beads, rice grains, or cornmeal. Some scrubs are made with particles that have sharper edges, such as apricot pits and seashells. If your skin is sensitive, it is better to avoid this type of exfoliators.
When it comes to exfoliating products, natural is not the best. Some synthetic substances, such as hydroxy acids (AHAs) have additional benefits. In addition to removing dead skin cells, these products prevent acne and brown spots as well as help maintain a smoother skin surface. For most of us hydroxy acids are the best choice.
When shopping for exfoliating treatments based on alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) chose the products that list at least 4 percent AHAs, otherwise you might not see any benefit. Unfortunately most products contain only 3 percent AHAs, which is not sufficient. It is also important that the product has pH value between 3 and 5. A higher pH will neutralize exfoliating effect while exfoliating product with a lower pH will irritate your skin.
You can jump-start exfoliating process by getting a professional exfoliating facial. Otherwise you can accomplish a little exfoliation by washing your face using a cleanser that contains gentle abrasive materials, such as jojoba beads. To get even better results you may apply a moisturizer that allows AHAs to remain on your skin. You may also use a special exfoliating treatment based on alpha hydroxy acids once a day or once a week.
It is important to exfoliate your skin regularly. If you stop exfoliating for even a week you will see your skin become duller. The only reason to temporally stop exfoliating is irritation.
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