Skin Exfoliation

Skin exfoliation is the process of removing dead cells from the upper layer of the epidermis, revealing the brighter, healthier skin below. Exfoliation can be accomplished mechanically, chemically, or by use of laser or microdermabrasion. Deeper exfoliation produces more drastic results, but also has more after effects.

Skin Exfoliation at Home

Any process that buffs the skin mechanically produces some exfoliation, even washing your face with a rough washcloth. Cleansing pads with embossed surfaces, cream cleansers imbued with tiny abrasive particles and rotary brushes are all mechanical means of exfoliating. Start slowly and gently when using these products, until you learn the degree of sensitivity of your skin.

There are also many over-the-counter chemical products for skin exfoliation. Many make use of fruit acids or alphahydroxy acids, sometimes in combination with enzymes, to dissolve dead cells. These products leave your skin looking fresher and brighter, and the massaging action when you apply them helps increase circulation and tighten your skin. Prescription products such as Retin-A work on the same principle, but are stronger, thereby more effectively reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Deeper levels of skin exfoliation can be obtained in spas and clinics with the use of microdermabrasion, chemical peels or laser treatment. Microdermabrasion is a mechanical process that bombards the skin with tiny crystals to break up and remove dead cells with few or no side effects. Chemical peels and laser treatments actually burn off layers of the epidermis, and so require some recovery time and careful after treatment to avoid infection.