Exfoliation: Mechanical and Chemical

Then, ideally, apply a serum with a specific action. Next, apply your favourite face cream. This whole routine should be completed, regardless of season, with a high-protection sunscreen which, in cases where you are exposed to the sun, should be reapplied. Naturally, the same applies to those who work indoors, as sunscreen protects the skin from the sun’s rays coming through the windows, and from the computer screen’s blue radiation that ages the skin.

What is their difference and when do we use each product, though?

By chemical exfoliation products, we mainly mean products that contain AHAs and BHAs, that is, Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Beta Hydroxy Acids. AHAs include glycolic, lactic, mandelic, malic, tartaric, and citric acids. In BHAs, the key ingredient is salicylic acid and its various derivatives.

What are their differences?

They are simple, but important! The most basic difference is their action. AHAs work on the outside of the skin, gently cleansing it, while BHAs exfoliate the outside as well as the pores. This is why BHAs leave the skin drier, while AHAs leave it more hydrated. It appears that AHAs help in the formation of collagen, while BHAs reduce inflammation. Due to this, we often find BHAs in anti-acne products or pore cleansers, while AHAs is more common in cleansers for sensitive skin. We don’t feel the change on the skin the same way in chemical peeling as we do in mechanical peeling, where, with the scrubbing, we can see and feel the difference. Chemical exfoliants work without friction and are usually used at night. The acids in these products are not necessarily artificial in nature. They often occur in fruit or their juices, which are then added to different cosmetic products.

Where should it be applied and why?

Ideally, mechanical peeling should be avoided on the face, especially when there is acne. Barring the fact that by rubbing, the skin becomes scratched and causes small wounds, various germs from the pimples get spread all over the face. On the contrary, peeling is great for the body, since it removes dead cells, helps with ingrown hairs, and improves blood circulation.