Chemical exfoliation is essentially a process that you can use to expedite the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. There are many ways in which this exfoliation type can help to improve the health of the skin. Understanding the different ways in which chemical exfoliation works can enable you to keep your skin healthy and clear. At The Skin Institute, we are passionate about equipping our students with the knowledge to pursue a successful career in esthetics. Chemical peels are one of the guest services that we provide, but it is also useful to understand how chemical exfoliation works.
What is Chemical Exfoliation?
Chemical exfoliation works in much the same way as a chemical peel. However, it is important to note that this type of exfoliation doesn’t use quite as strong chemicals as are used in a chemical peel, because it is often completed without a professional’s supervision. This usually means that the results will be less significant, as well. However, chemical exfoliation can still be a great strategy for protecting the health of your skin.
The skin cells of your skin regenerate every month. Due to this, it is very possible for the dead skin cells to accumulate over the surface of the new, healthy skin cells. This can cause clogging of the pores, which can lead to acne or an array of other issues. While dead skin cells often shed naturally, they may not shed as quickly as you may like. With the use of chemical exfoliation, you can help to dissolve these dead skin cells, which can expedite the process.
Why Use Chemical Exfoliation?
Ultimately, many people use chemical exfoliation rather than the physical type of exfoliation because it has the capacity to penetrate more deeply beneath the skin. This can provide more results than physical exfoliation, though still less than a chemical peel.
Two Types of Exfoliation
There are two general types of exfoliation that are used for the removal of dead skin cells. Chemical and physical exfoliation are often used to improve the health of your skin. Physical exfoliation regards the use of a tool or other method to manually remove dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliation, alternatively, uses chemicals to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.
Multiple Types of Chemical Exfoliation
There are several different types of chemicals that are used in chemical exfoliation. These will provide different results, so it is important to be aware of the differences. There are three main types, including PHAs, BHAs, and AHAs.
Poly Hydroxy Acids (PHAs)
PHAs, poly hydroxy acids, are a type of chemical exfoliator that is often used for people that have particularly sensitive skin. These chemicals, mainly gluconolactone and lactobionic acids, contain larger molecules, which minimizes the depth in which they can penetrate through the skin. This is generally why it is ideal for sensitive skin.
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
BHAs, beta hydroxy acids, are often comprised of tropic and salicylic acids. This type of exfoliator is used to help unclog the pores, which can help to prevent significant issues with the appearance and health of the skin. These acids are often used for individuals that have oily skin or skin that is prone to acne.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
AHAs, alpha hydroxy acids, tend to include various naturally occurring acids. These include citric, malic, lactic, and glycolic acids. When you use AHAs, you will likely see a substantial improvement to the tone of your skin, as well as small levels of discoloration of the skin.
It is beneficial to ensure that you talk to a professional to help you identify the right product for use on your skin. This can help to provide you with the best possible strategy for your skincare. Whether you want to know more about the guest services we provide or the classes we offer, we are happy to answer all of your questions. We offer both basic and master courses to thoroughly prepare our students for a great career in the field of esthetics. To learn more about chemical exfoliation, the chemical peels we offer through our guest services, or the classes that we are able to provide, contact us at The Skin Institute today!
