As the weather gets warmer, it’s time to shed those winter layers and get ready for a healthy summer glow. But before you start fake tanning, it’s important to resurface the top layers of your skin for an even application. In this article, we will provide you with expert tips on exfoliating your skin for a smooth and glowing complexion.
Chemical vs Physical Exfoliation: Which One is Right for You?
When it comes to exfoliating, there are two main methods: chemical and physical. Chemical exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores, making them great for those with sensitive skin. On the other hand, physical exfoliants, such as scrubs, use abrasive particles to slough away dead skin. These can be great for relieving dryness, but can also irritate sensitive skin. It’s important to choose the right method for your skin type and always consult a dermatologist if you’re unsure.
Expert Recommendations for Effective Exfoliation
To help you get started, our beauty experts recruited 250 panellists to test 13 chemical and physical body exfoliators. After reviewing their feedback, here are the top nine products that scored the highest for improving skin’s softness, smoothness, and hydration:
- Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
- The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow Boosting Microdermabrasion Exfoliator
- Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
- Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial
- Frank Body Original Coffee Scrub
- Herbivore Coco Rose Exfoliating Body Scrub
- Ncessaire The Body Exfoliator
- Biossance Squalane + Glycolic Renewal Facial
- SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight
Tips for Safe and Effective Exfoliation
To get the best results from exfoliating, it’s important to follow a few guidelines. First, start slow and gradually increase the frequency of exfoliation to avoid irritating your skin. For those with sensitive skin, stick to chemical exfoliants and avoid physical scrubs. Always avoid using exfoliants on broken or sunburnt skin, and be sure to moisturize after exfoliating to help replenish skin’s natural oils.
Conclusion
Exfoliating is a great way to improve the look and feel of your skin, but it’s important to choose the right method and be gentle with your skin. With the expert tips and product recommendations provided in this article, you can safely and effectively achieve a smooth, glowing complexion just in time for summer.
1. What are AHAs and BHAs and how do they benefit the skin?
2. Is chemical or physical exfoliation better for sensitive skin?
3. What are some recommended body exfoliators that scored highest in a beauty expert test?
4. What is the process for testing body scrubs and exfoliators by the beauty experts?
5. What are the potential risks or concerns when using exfoliators on sensitive or inflammatory skin?
