Every woman wants to have a radiant and fresh look, so thousands of products, procedures and other tricks are used. The face needs constant hydration, nutrition and cleansing. If the first and second can be achieved with the help of a good cream, then the last one is worth dwelling on in more detail.
To effectively cleanse the skin, it is necessary to use a peeling, or exfoliant, for the face. Why clean the skin mechanically if our body has a renewal process at the cellular level?
Our epidermis consists of five layers of cells: the youngest are inside, and the oldest, dead ones are on the outside. This top layer retains moisture in the skin. Under the influence of negative factors, the outer layer may thicken. The layering of dead cells prevents the skin from functioning properly and causes keratosis (the skin becomes rough and dense).
To prevent this condition, special cleaning compounds are used. They perform facial skin exfoliation, which literally translates from English as “exfoliation.”
Exfoliant - what is it, composition, types
An exfoliant is a short name for the list of components that a cosmetic product contains. Typically, these products serve to cleanse, moisturize, or exfoliate.
Having an amazing effect on the skin, it is able to “dissolve” keratinized particles of the epidermis, penetrating to the basal structure of the skin. Due to this, new young cells are formed, and thus accelerated renewal is launched. The skin becomes soft and tender like a child's.
Exfoliants are divided into:
- mechanical,
- enzymatic,
- acid-free,
- acidic.
The main active ingredients in exfoliants can be:
- acids (fruit and lactic)
- enzymes (plant and animal origin).
Depending on the condition and age of the skin, the cosmetologist selects the appropriate product. So, for skin that is too young or aging, active acids will be destructive and can cause swelling or burns on the client’s face, so it is preferable to use enzymatic exfoliants.
For mature skin, acid is not so terrible; in moderation, it has a noble effect on the skin, slowing down the aging process and enriching it with useful microelements.
The exfoliant in the composition can be found in almost every cosmetic product for face and body care. As a rule, they are all aimed at cleansing and renewing the skin.
Before choosing any product, beauty experts recommend:
- Determine your skin type and know in detail the existing problems (pigmentation, acne, wrinkles). If it is difficult to do this on your own, it is better to seek help from a cosmetologist.
- Find out in detail from a specialist or pharmacist about such a product as an exfoliant, what it is.
- Choose a product that suits your skin type.
Exfoliant paste
The paste is somewhat reminiscent of a regular face mask based on mud or clay. Its texture is quite dense. The composition may contain both AHA acids and enzymes of animal and plant origin. Use the paste 1-2 times a week.
Exfoliant cream
It has a weaker concentration of acids or enzymes as it is designed for daily use.
Exfoliant creams that contain salicylic acid can dry out acne and tighten enlarged pores. Salicylic acid also controls subcutaneous sebum production well.
Gel exfoliant
It has the same spectrum of action as creams, but has a lighter texture. Its use is recommended more for those with oily, problematic, combination skin.
Exfoliant soap
Convenient skin cleanser. According to some women, it has a stronger cleansing effect compared to regular soap.
Gommage exfoliant
A kind of cleansing cream. It acts like a scrub, but has smaller particles, which means it is considered more gentle. Suitable for sensitive and dry skin.
Exfoliant mask
Not suitable for daily use. As a rule, exfoliant masks contain acid, so you need to apply it with extreme caution. But the effect is noticeable almost immediately and lasts much longer than after a regular mask.
Exfoliant toner
It is designed for gentler care. The product is suitable for daily use. Tonic prepares the skin for further application of the cream and enhances its effect.
Exfoliating powder
New in the cosmetic world. Very economical consumption. Use no more than twice a week as a cleanser. Apply dry to wet skin or mix with water to form a paste. Most often refers to acid-free enzymatic exfoliants.
Scrub exfoliant
It contains coarse abrasive particles. Suitable for those with oily, large-pore skin.
Peeling exfoliant
Basically, the composition contains AHA and BHA acids. Their complex effect renews even the most neglected skin almost from the first use .
On well-groomed skin, the effect will not be so noticeable, but still quite noticeable. Cosmetologists recommend peeling based on exfoliants as a good home remedy that is practically in no way inferior to a cosmetic procedure.
Exfoliant lotion
This line is designed to care for the body, which also needs cleansing. In addition to the exfoliating effect, it tones well, reduces the appearance of stretch marks and reduces existing ones.
Exfoliant shampoo
As a rule, this product contains acids (salicylic, fruit), which act in several directions at once. Its use can reduce the production of subcutaneous sebum and reduce hair loss. This effect is not achieved immediately, but after a couple of weeks the first results are already noticeable.
Mechanism of action
The result of using an exfoliant cream depends on the ingredients it contains. The components of the product are absorbed into the skin, dissolving and eliminating keratinized, excess particles. At the same time, the natural processes of creating new cells are accelerated. Cosmetologists borrowed this idea from dermatologists. After all, it is on this principle that medicinal drugs that fight skin pathologies work.
When dead particles are removed from the surface of the skin, its cells begin to quickly renew themselves, replacing the vacant space with elastic tissues. At the same time, even minor scars and wrinkles disappear, and the skin itself acquires a beautiful glow. The exfoliant cream has a rejuvenating effect, which is clearly visible even after the first use.
Such products should be used with extreme caution. After all, aggressive chemical composition can damage the skin in inept hands. If you use such a cream, following the instructions exactly, you can get amazing results.
Instructions for use of exfoliants. How to use exfoliants
Basically, all products that contain an exfoliant are aimed at cleansing the skin. This is a product for which it is almost impossible to find an analogue. Depending on the product, it comes with special instructions that describe in detail how to use this product and how often to do it.
For face
The face is the calling card of a woman’s overall appearance. When choosing an exfoliant for the face, you need to take into account everything down to the smallest detail - condition, youth and skin type.
Sometimes cosmetologists offer a whole line of skin exfoliants that contain: cream, tonic and mask or gel for washing. This is a trio that can cure acne even for neglected skin.
In general, beauty experts advise following the following regimen for using facial exfoliants:
- For oily skin, you can use any of the suggested exfoliants, but no more than 3 times a week.
- For those with sensitive and dry skin, the use of exfoliants is limited to once every few weeks.
- The use of strong acid peels, as a rule, involves a kind of skin preparation. For this purpose, weakly dosed acid cosmetics are used daily. In addition, it is better to use them in the cold season.
A correctly selected scheme will not harm the skin, but will make the face cleaner and younger.
For hands
An exfoliant, what it is and how it works on the face has already been said above. For hands, the product acts in the same way, but is most often used in the form of scrub oils.
They are applied to dry skin of the hands and massaged for 1-2 minutes. Then wash off with warm water. Manufacturers claim that regular use of this oil (2-3 times a week) will provide well-groomed hands, like after spa treatments. Also, after using the oil, there is practically no need for cream, your hands are already sufficiently moisturized.
For legs
All kinds of files, pumice stones and other devices used in pedicure can be replaced with a special exfoliant for feet. This is what the manufacturers who invented this cosmetic product say. It comes in the form of a scrub. In order to achieve a good result, you will first need to steam your feet with the addition of soda or sea salt.
Afterwards, apply the product to your feet and massage for a long time. Then rinse with water. Any oily cream applied after scrubbing will help consolidate the effect.
For body
Today, a full range of foot procedures can be replaced with only one - using an exfoliant. There are 2 products to choose from: scrub or lotion with AHA acids. The scrub is applied before taking a shower, the lotion is applied after.
The effect of the first is achieved a little faster, since the scrub often contains mechanical particles in the form of walnut shells or fruit seeds. The lotion is designed for longer use, but it is gentler to care for, which will be a plus for those with sensitive skin.
For the scalp
The line of exfoliants is also created in the form of peelings for the scalp. They are applied to dry hair and massaged for 10 minutes. Afterwards, wash off with warm water and shampoo. These procedures will help solve problems with dandruff, excess oiliness and hair loss, which bring no joy to anyone.
For hair
Hair exfoliant is available in the form of shampoos. They are able to strengthen the hair structure, make it thicker and smooth out the scales. Shampoo is not used often, but after lathering, leave it for a few minutes so that the beneficial properties penetrate properly into the hair structure.
When to use the product?
Most girls ask the question: “When is the best time to apply an exfoliant?” Some people find that it works better at night, while others prefer a morning exfoliation routine. Both opinions have a right to exist.
- Removing the layer of dead cells in the evening improves the performance of night creams and masks. They penetrate deeper into cleansed pores and act more productively from the inside.
- Using the preparations in the morning helps to apply makeup evenly. It lasts longer on smooth skin.
Renowned dermatologist Harold Lancer, who is consulted by celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez and Beyoncé, believes that a morning exfoliation procedure is better for those with oily epidermis. At night, the sebaceous glands actively produce oil, so using exfoliators in the evening on oily skin may not have as noticeable an effect as desired.
Exfoliants for instant tanning
Instant tanning exfoliant is designed to prepare the skin for instant tanning using sprays and creams.
It comes in the form of a liquid lotion and is applied to the skin using a spray bottle. Leave for a few minutes and wash off with regular dry wipes.
Don't miss the most popular article in the section: Amaranth oil - properties and use in cosmetology, reviews, price of the product.
Exfoliants with glycolic or salicylic acid
The use of a cosmetic product with glycolic acid promotes rapid renewal of skin processes. Old cells die and slough off while new ones begin to regenerate as quickly as possible.
Subsequently, the skin becomes even, its color and structure change. Increasing the level of hyaluronic acid helps smooth out fine wrinkles and prevents the appearance of new ones.
An exfoliant with salicylic acid is more suitable for problematic skin with acne, blackheads and increased sebum production. This acid has an antibacterial effect and prevents the appearance of new rashes.
Rating of the best exfoliants. Reviews
When the word exfoliant no longer sounds so unusual and what it is is described in detail above, readers will probably want to know what products are needed and can be purchased with this ingredient in their composition. Leading experts in the world of beauty highlight a rating of the best and very affordable exfoliants, which are based on customer reviews.
Cream mask “Bark” – exfoliant with fruit acids
A domestic product of very good quality, the Bark cream mask is a mild chemical peeling that can be used at home without fear. This cosmetic product contains AHA acids of natural origin.
They help to launch the regeneration of the epidermis, exfoliate dead cells, smooth out the relief and smooth out fine wrinkles.
The composition also contains grape seed oil, which moisturizes and nourishes the skin.
The mask is intended as a stand-alone product for oily and combination skin types.
Its use helps smooth out traces of small scars and post-acne.
It also has a brightening effect and will help lighten existing age spots. Sometimes cosmetologists recommend using this mask for upcoming high-acid peeling.
The result that the manufacturer claims after a certain course (20 days) is renewed and fresh skin, with narrowed pores and a smooth texture.
After using the “Cora” cream mask, some women note the pleasant sensation of “breathing skin” and a pleasant feeling of freshness, and a decrease in oil content. Those who have used this mask repeatedly recommend using it on the skin during the cold season and note that the mask is very economical to use. 1 tube is enough for the course recommended by the manufacturer.
You can purchase the “Bark” cream mask at any pharmacy or online cosmetics store. The price is very reasonable and starts from 400-500 rubles.
Cream-exfoliac and gel-exfoliator from “Norev”
The cream and gel are suitable for daily use. The gel is used for local use and is applied directly to areas of inflammation. The cream is intended for comprehensive care.
Manufacturers and women who have tried both of these products have reported positive improvements in problematic skin. It is also recommended to use them at night, since after use the cream may sting the skin a little, and the gel can remove inflammation overnight. For those whose skin is oily, the cream may leave a small oily film, which is well absorbed by the morning.
Facial exfoliant paste "Air Stream: oxygen balance" from Faberlic
Oxygen cosmetics mask. Age 20+. It contains clay and active substances that fight excess oiliness and inflammation on the skin.
The manufacturer promises a stunning result after using this mask and it is confirmed by distributors. Women who tested this product on themselves did not note anything special after using it, except for a feeling of freshness immediately after use.
"Clareol" - soft cleansing gel-exfoliant
Its direct effect is the removal of warts and growths. The gel also softens rough skin well. You can buy it at a pharmacy or search on Internet sites. The price of an exfoliant gel is quite high and varies from 900 rubles and above. Sometimes 2-3 bottles are needed to complete a full course.
Most reviews associated with this gel note its direct effectiveness. It can remove even very old and difficult to remove warts. But some people successfully use it in pedicures when they need to remove hardened calluses and soften the skin of the feet.
Yves Roshe exfoliating body soap
The soap is intended to be used 1-2 times a week as a scrub. Apply in circular motions to damp, steamed skin.
It has a very fresh and unusual aroma, from which no one will remain indifferent. The composition contains rough scrubbing particles, so it is unlikely to be suitable for those with delicate and sensitive skin. Some women note small scratches after use, especially on the inside of the arms and in the décolleté area.
Also, for those who have fairly dry skin, it is recommended to apply a moisturizing lotion or body cream after using soap, as soap can dry out the skin a little.
Exfoliating cream "Acnomega 100"
A universal cream that can be used both day and night. Age of use – from 18 years. Aimed at skin whitening, has a mild and gradual cleansing effect.
Although the manufacturer does not indicate what skin this cream is intended for, women who test it note that it is definitely for dry or moderately oily skin. For oilier or combination skin, it is better to use Acnomega 200.
Scrub-exfoliant for cleansing pores “Siberian Health”
The scrub is available in gel form and is intended for gentle cleansing. Suitable for dry and sensitive skin, since for oily skin (based on reviews) the gel is rather weak.
With regular use (2 times a week), a good cleansing and exfoliating effect and partial relief from acne and blackheads are noted. After use, it is recommended to apply moisturizer.
Facial exfoliant gel "Lierak"
The gel is produced by a French cosmetics company for cleansing and removing make-up of the face and area around the eyes. It belongs to the classification of luxury medicinal cosmetics, since the price is quite high compared to cosmetics from the masmarket.
The gel is suitable for girls over 18 years of age, but it is also successfully used by 15-year-old teenagers.
Suitable for normal and combination skin. The natural ingredients contained in the composition can have a beneficial effect on the skin, reduce redness and peeling.
Girls and women testing this gel claim that it copes with its cleansing function “with a bang,” and there is no feeling of skin tightness after use.
Exfoliating powder with texture from Dior
Dry powder, which is foamed on damp hands and applied to the face. Many women who test this product note that the packaging is awkward and impractical.
Due to the wide opening, the powder may spill out more than it should. Those expecting a tough exfoliation will be in for a surprise.
After mixing with water, the powder acquires the consistency of a paste and is more like a gel cleanser. However, the effect is better than that of an abrasive scrub.
Many people note the complete disappearance of flaky skin and a reduction in blackheads. Cosmetologists advise using the product as follows:
- 1-2 times a week – for dry and sensitive skin;
- 3-4 times a week – for normal and combination skin;
- daily – for oily skin.
Bioenzyme exfoliant "Alpika"
Dry powder of double action based on phytoenzymes of pineapple and papaya. Used as peeling and as a face mask. Well suited for delicate and sensitive skin. Fruit acids saturate the skin with vitamins, jojoba extract has a polishing effect.
Manufacturers recommend using the powder 2 times a week as a mask or peeling. Although the composition contains small scrubbing particles, women using this powder as a peeling did not notice any unpleasant sensations.
Radiance-enhancing facial exfoliant toner from Payot
Tonic serves as an intermediate between cleansing and moisturizing. Therefore, it is recommended to use it exactly in order to achieve the result presented by the manufacturer.
Created on a non-alcoholic basis, it does not leave any unpleasant sensations. The tonic is suitable for all skin types; many women state the fact that after this tonic, the skin is sufficiently moisturized and does not require the application of cream.
Cream-exfoliant and mask-exfoliant “Cellular renewal” from “Belita”
Belarusian cosmetics have quite good reviews among women. The price is reasonable and the quality is not inferior to expensive brands. The “Cellular Renewal” series, which includes a mask and an exfoliant cream, is quite good and has many positive reviews. Among them are hydration, cleansing and smoothness of the skin.
The only thing that buyers are unhappy with is the slightly specific smell of the mask. But he, as they say, is not an acquired taste.
Cream exfoliant "Mezopharm"
Used as a preparation for chemical peeling. Apply to skin daily morning and evening. Designed for oily skin prone to rashes, aging and hyperpigmented skin.
Among women who use this cream, they note its quite strong and effective effect and are not advised to use it for more than the prescribed period, which, depending on the skin type, is 14-30 days. The cream also lightens age spots very well.
Exfoliating powder “H2O”
New in the field of cosmetology. Convenient to use. There are both a disposable package and a large tube on sale, which makes customers very happy, since you can buy 1 package to try and find out whether this product is suitable or not.
The product is intended for cleansing facial skin 1-3 times a week. The powder is mixed with water and gently massaged onto the face.
Cream exfoliant “French almond” from “Academy”
Peeling cream is created for all skin types and is designed to cleanse it. It is recommended to purchase in addition to a mask from this manufacturer to achieve the most effective results. The product is quite expensive, but women note its high effectiveness, namely:
- smoothing the relief of the skin;
- cleansing pores;
- exfoliation;
- refreshing complexion.
After use it does not cause any discomfort.
Gommage exfoliant "Teana"
Gommage based on enzymatic exfoliants. Suitable for use on very sensitive skin. Used once a week.
Those who have used this product note the pleasant smell of the product and high-quality packaging. Also, gommage was not suitable for many, as it has a softer effect than scrub or peeling. More suitable for practically problem-free skin, to maintain hydration and elasticity.
Exfoliating tonic "Natura Siberica"
Cleansing and brightening toner based on fruit acids. A good domestic analogue to expensive French brands. Designed for daily use. According to reviews from most women and cosmetologists, it does its job quite well as an intermediate remedy.
After use, there is a good lightening of freckles and age spots. The tonic has a pleasant smell of sea buckthorn.
For whom and for what skin problems are enzyme powders suitable?
The action of enzyme powder is very soft, so it can be used by owners of any skin type, even the most sensitive. The product will be a good choice if you have the following problems:
- hyperkeratosis and psoriasis
- sorbaine-based powders with the addition of acids and allantoin are ideal; - uneven relief and dull skin tone
- enzyme powders with the addition of blue clay, vitamin C, oat and green tea extracts; - pigmentation
- powders based on papain or bromelain, with the addition of vitamin C, blue clay, gluconic acid; - inflammatory (non-purulent!) elements
- powders based on papain or bromelain, with the addition of kaolin, blue clay, acids, tea tree oil; - oily skin, the presence of sebaceous plugs and blackheads, enlarged pores
- powders based on papain, sorbain or bromelain, with the addition of kaolin, blue clay, azelaic or gluconic acid, oat extract; - tendency to ingrown hairs after depilation
- after exfoliation of dead cells, it is easier for new hairs to overcome the stratum corneum. Powders with enzymes in high concentrations, with the addition of kaolin, pineapple or citrus extracts are suitable here.
When used correctly and regularly, enzyme powders stimulate the regeneration of skin cells, lighten age spots, reduce inflammation and post-acne, eliminate peeling and ingrown hairs. They dissolve sebaceous plugs, cleansing the ducts of the sebaceous glands, and also remove surface excess sebum. The result is clean, smooth and radiant skin.
Where to buy exfoliant for face and body. Price
Unfortunately, there are a lot of fakes on the domestic cosmetics market, so buying a good, proven product is not so easy. It is better to choose an exfoliant, especially an acidic one, and especially for the face, very carefully and not buy the first product you come across on sale.
Price sometimes doesn’t matter either; a good and inexpensive pharmaceutical product is sometimes no worse than the one sold in a luxury store.
Exfoliants for both the face and body can be found in pharmacies, chain stores, online sites, or from the cosmetologist himself. The price category “for every taste” is from 300 rubles and above, depending on the product. Domestic and Belarusian cosmetics are much cheaper than imported ones, if they are not a chain brand. Prices for the most popular exfoliants:
- cream mask “Bark” - from 465 rubles in Russian pharmacies;
- Yves Rocher exfoliant soap – 169 rubles on the official website.
Types of beauty products
According to their intended use, the funds are divided into those intended for:
- faces;
- bodies.
Based on the principle of action, exfoliants are divided into:
- chemical - acid “solos” as the main substance for exfoliation;
- mechanical – with inclusions of abrasive particles of different sizes and structures;
- combined - contain both acids and rough exfoliating particles.
Possible release form:
- cleansing gel;
- foam for washing;
- mask;
- soap;
- scrub;
- cream;
- gommage
How to make an exfoliant at home
To look beautiful, you don’t need to run to the nearest pharmacy or store, but you can prepare an exfoliant at home from improvised means.
Most often, homemade scrubs and peelings are prepared based on:
- soda;
- acetylsalicylic acid;
- vitamin C.
The simplest homemade exfoliant recipe for problem skin:
- Place 4 aspirin tablets on a saucer and drop a couple of drops of water on them so that the tablets dissolve and turn into a paste.
- Add 2 teaspoons of honey to aspirin and stir.
- Apply the mixture to your face and leave for 15-20 minutes.
This home peeling not only dries out small and large inflammations, but also noticeably brightens the face.
Expert recommendations
True, manufacturers do not often honestly indicate the percentage of active ingredients. But this does not mean that you cannot determine it yourself. You can determine the concentration of components by paying attention to the order of the ingredients listed. For example, water-soluble acids should be in 3rd, 4th or 5th place, but salicylic acid should be no higher than in the middle of this list. And pay attention to one more nuance: the composition must contain acids, and not their derivatives or the substances from which they are obtained.
Some people mistake retinol for a substance that has the properties of water-soluble acids. After all, it is often added to exfoliant creams. But in fact, these components have completely opposite purposes. Retinol does not cause peeling or remove dead particles; on the contrary, it is designed to make the skin soft.
Scrub and exfoliant - what's the difference?
Scrubbing is a rough, mechanical cleansing of the skin from dead cells. Not suitable for every woman, especially those with very dry and sensitive skin. In this case, it is better to replace it with a softer product with an exfoliant, such as powder or gommage.
Exfoliant and what it is is being studied to this day, so surely in the near future cosmetologists will release new and improved cosmetic products, or you can always prepare an affordable home remedy.
Expert advice
- Anastasia Zaslavskaya dermatologist, cosmetologist: “Before exfoliation, you should moisturize your skin well for several days. The best time for such procedures is autumn or winter; in summer, ultraviolet radiation can cause unwanted pigmentation. Exfoliation procedures, especially chemical and laser ones, are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.”
- Irene Shimshilashvili, makeup artist and author of the telegram channel “Diary of Visagidze”: “You need to gradually and carefully begin active skin care; if you abuse it, you can get allergies and irritation.
Carefully study the recommendations of specialists, start with small volumes, gradually introduce new products. For some of them, the result does not become noticeable immediately, but only after a few months. Listen carefully to your feelings.”
We recommend: Types of anti-aging exfoliants: what is more effective for the skin - yellow peeling or TCA?
