The world of exfoliants is divided into two main categories: chemical and physical (or mechanical). While both aim to buff away dead skin cells, they do so in distinct ways. Proper exfoliation enhances the effectiveness of your serums, moisturisers, and treatments, allowing them to penetrate your skin more effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the two types of exfoliators to help you decide which is best for you.
Chemical Exfoliation
Chemical exfoliants use specific ingredients to aid cell turnover and remove dead skin cells. They are excellent for smoothing and brightening the skin, giving you a radiant glow. Unlike the gritty texture of physical exfoliants, chemical exfoliants are smooth and penetrate deeper into the skin.
What Chemicals Should I Look For?
- AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): Derived from natural substances, AHAs are ideal for exfoliating dry skin by breaking down the “glue” holding dead skin cells together. Look for Glycolic Acid (from sugar cane) and Lactic Acid (from milk) to tackle signs of ageing and brighten your skin.
- Fruit Enzymes: Enzymes like bromelain (pineapple) and papain (papaya) are gentle exfoliants for sensitive skin. Our Daily Treatment Oil contains Papaya Seed Oil to exfoliate and soothe irritation from shaving and waxing.
- BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids): Oil-soluble molecules like Salicylic Acid (from aspirin) reach deeper into the skin and pores, making them ideal for acne-prone, oily skin. They have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Our Exfoliating Tonic contains Willow Bark Extract, a natural form of Salicylic Acid, to heal and prevent ingrown hairs.
Can You Use AHA and BHA Together?
Yes, since AHAs and BHAs work differently to exfoliate the skin, it is safe to use both. BHAs break down the bonds between cells, while AHAs cause the cells themselves to detach.
Physical Exfoliation/Mechanical Exfoliation
Physical exfoliation involves manually buffing away dead skin cells using scrubs with small grains or tools like body brushes. This method reveals new, younger skin when you wash off the product and dead cells.
- Dermaplaning: A professional technique ideal for scars, wrinkles, and stretch marks, but best left to professionals due to the use of knives.
What’s a Micro-Tear?
Micro-tears are small breaks in the skin caused by sharp or jagged exfoliating agents. They weaken the skin’s barrier, leading to dryness, flakiness, and sensitivity. Avoid overzealous scrubbing and opt for gentle exfoliators to prevent micro-tears.
Chemical or Physical Exfoliation?
The choice between chemical and physical exfoliation is personal. Neither is inherently better; what matters is regular exfoliation, ideally 2-3 times per week. Physical exfoliants are gentle for beginners, while chemical exfoliants offer uniform exfoliation and anti-ageing benefits. Often, a combination of both types yields the best results.
How to Exfoliate Your Body
- Body Scrub: Wet and soften your skin with warm water, then apply the scrub in circular motions. Exfoliate 2-3 times a week.
- Dry Brush: Use a dry, stiff-bristled brush for daily body massage, starting at your feet and working upwards. Use long strokes on limbs and circular motions on the torso and back.
Explore our dedicated body scrub and exfoliating tonic, which harness the power of natural chemical exfoliants.
Meet Folli Oil
Folli Oil is a natural, cruelty-free, vegan skincare range that truly works. Using the finest, ethically sourced, sustainable plant-based ingredients, our products are handcrafted in small batches at our studio in the beautiful Cotswolds. We test on willing humans, not animals, and our packaging is recyclable. Experience the Folli Oil difference and shop now.