Healthy, beautiful, ageless looking skin is definitely within reach. Having a high performance, anti-aging cream in your skincare routine is a must; and SPF is likely your BFF. But did you know that adding exfoliation to your routine can also pack an anti-aging punch? Here’s everything to know about the process, and how to reap its laundry list of benefits. Cell Service: The Basics
Every day in your deep dermal layers, new skin cells are born, pushing old cells up to the skin's outermost layer—the epidermis. Cell turnover rate is about twice as fast in children and young adults, which explains kids’ luminous glow, baby-soft complexion, and absolutely zero need for an Instagram filter. But it’s not just age that can slow things down: stress and seasonal shifts are culprits, too.Is There Anything I Can Do?
Although the above factors might be working against you, the answer is yes! Let us explain: If you recall from physics 101, rough surfaces don’t reflect light as well as smooth ones. That’s why dead skin cell buildup leads to a lackluster, dull complexion that even the best highlighters can’t fix. But that’s not all. When dead skin mixes with oil and bacteria, you’ve got a perfect storm for congested pores and breakouts. The best way to sidestep all these effects? Exfoliate to give dead skin cells the boot.How Does Exfoliation Work, Exactly?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the epidermis. As a result, it helps brighten, smooth, and unclog pores—but did you also know it can turn back the proverbial clock? See, over time, exfoliation boosts collagen, a protein responsible for keeping skin elastic and plump vs. saggy and crepey. It even acts as a wingman for your other anti-aging products—like Neolastin Face & Neck Regenerative Serum—helping to boost their absorption. Win-win-win.Let’s dive into the two exfoliation methods you’ll want to try: mechanical and chemical.
Mechanical Exfoliation
Also known as physical exfoliation, this approach is ideal for newbies because it cuts through initial flakes and roughness for immediate retexturizing and radiance. Think of it like cleaning any surface: you’d sweep off the dust first, then go in with chemicals to do the dirty work.
So, let’s get physical. Topical, particle-based cleansers have come a long way since a certain apricot scrub entered the scene. Good thing, because coarse grains can create microtears in delicate facial skin. Finer particles or powder exfoliants aren’t nearly as irritating, but have plenty of grit to get the job done. Into gadgets? Handheld dermaplaning tools or microdermabrasion devices use a scraping or polishing mechanism, respectively, to remove flakes and further refine the skin. Cleansing brushes are also an increasingly popular foolproof, effective method—look for ones with soft, silicone bristles (vs. stiff nylon, which can be harsh) that gently massage your face.
Chemical Exfoliation
Ready to take things a step further? Chemicals like glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids (alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs), not only break down dead skin cells but they also help fade hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone. Salicylic acid (beta hydroxy acid, or BHA) does all that and more: this oil-soluble acid gets deep into the pores to flush out dirt and sebum, keeping your skin breakout- and bump-free.
If you’re thinking acids sound aggressive, you wouldn’t be the first. Rest assured they get an A for amazing when used correctly. Lactic and mandelic are mild acids—great for sensitive skin types—while glycolic is the strongest. A good rule of thumb to avoid irritation and peeling? The lower the concentration, the more frequently you can use it. Cleansers and toners, which typically clock in 8-10%, can be used daily, while peels or masks—often up to three times as strong—should be once-weekly treatments, max.
With Neolastin’s new Exfoliate & Smooth Triple Hydroxy Acid Toner you get the benefit of both AHAs and BHAs with glycolic, salicylic and lactic acids all working together to eliminate dead skin cells, keep pores clear and healthy and encouraging cell turnover so skin looks firmer, toner and more refreshed.
If you’re thinking acids sound aggressive, you wouldn’t be the first. Rest assured they get an A for amazing when used correctly. Lactic and mandelic are mild acids—great for sensitive skin types—while glycolic is the strongest. A good rule of thumb to avoid irritation and peeling? The lower the concentration, the more frequently you can use it. Cleansers and toners, which typically clock in 8-10%, can be used daily, while peels or masks—often up to three times as strong—should be once-weekly treatments, max.
With Neolastin’s new Exfoliate & Smooth Triple Hydroxy Acid Toner you get the benefit of both AHAs and BHAs with glycolic, salicylic and lactic acids all working together to eliminate dead skin cells, keep pores clear and healthy and encouraging cell turnover so skin looks firmer, toner and more refreshed.
The Not-So-Fine Print
Many people find that as exfoliation reveals beautiful new skin, it can also unearth an obsession with, well, exfoliation. But more isn’t more. Over-exfoliation can compromise the skin barrier, remove the cells and ceramides you do need for younger-looking skin, and leave you parched, red, and raw. Go slow with a gentle daily product like Neolastin’s Exfoliate & Smooth Triple Hydroxy Toner and always replace lost moisture by following it with Neolastin’s Rejuvenate & Hydrate Moisturizing Cream. You’ll be glowing in no time.