The Best Ways to Exfoliate Your Skin

The term “exfoliation” is thrown around frequently in the context of skin care, but do you really know what it means? Exfoliation is the removal of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin by mechanical or chemical means. Here is everything you need to know about the best ways to exfoliate your skin.

Microdermabrasion— Microdermabrasion is the manual exfoliation of the skin through the use of a special machine. The facial not only involves exfoliation of the skin but also extractions and the application of enzymes to brighten your skin tone. Specialty products and masks may also be incorporated into the treatment to address various skin conditions such as rosacea, acne, or dryness. A microdermabrasion facial takes around an hour and should be repeated every 4 to 6 weeks for ideal results. Improvement is usually visible after just one treatment.

Dermaplaning— Dermaplaning treatments exfoliate the epidermis while also eliminating the skin of any vellus hair (peach fuzz) though the use of special instruments. This treatment is perfect if you want a deep exfoliation without the use of harsh peeling agents, or if you suffer from excessive peach fuzz. The treatment can be easily added to other treatments such as light chemical peels and microdermabrasion facials to ensure optimal effectiveness. The treatment takes only one hour and can be repeated every 3 weeks. Your skin will be noticeably brighter immediately.

Exfoliating at-home— You can also safely and effectively exfoliate your skin at home! There are two main methods for at-home exfoliation: mechanical (using a brush or a sponge to physically remove dead skin cells) and chemical (using a chemical to melt away dead cells). In order to prevent skin damage and maximize health benefits, dermatologists recommend that you consider the skin care products you already use (as some can make your skin more sensitive or dry) and then select an exfoliation method that suits your skin type. When exfoliating, be gentle to your skin and never exfoliate if your skin is scraped or sunburned. Follow exfoliation with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated, and consult a dermatologist if you have any concerns!

Exfoliation is a crucial part of skin care! To learn more about exfoliating treatments or products, or to schedule a consultation with one of our skin care experts at North Scottsdale Laser & Skin Care Clinic, call (480) 513-2888, or book your appointment online.