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Brilio.net - Facial exfoliation is an important step in a care routine that helps remove dead skin cells and keeps skin clean and healthy. The exfoliation process can provide many benefits, such as improving skin texture, brightening dull skin, and maximizing the absorption of other skincare products. In recent years, various skincare products with special ingredients for exfoliation have appeared on the market providing many options for those who want to improve the health of their skin.
There are two types of exfoliation that are commonly used, namely physical and chemical. Physical exfoliation involves using a scrub or tool with a rough surface to mechanically remove dead skin cells. Meanwhile, chemical exfoliation uses active ingredients that dissolve and gently remove dead skin cells.
So, there are several skincare ingredients for exfoliation that you must know, as briliobeauty.net summarized from various sources, Tuesday (30/7).
1. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs).
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Alpha Hydroxy Acids, or AHAs are a group of acids that come from natural sources such as fruit and milk. According to research published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, AHAs work by weakening the bonds between dead skin cells, and making them easier to exfoliate.
Well, the type of AHA that is most commonly used in skincare products is glycolic acid, which comes from sugar cane, has the smallest molecules and is most easily absorbed by the skin. Then there is lactic acid. which comes from milk, is gentler and suitable for sensitive skin. Next there is mandelic acid, which comes from almond extract, has large molecules so it works more slowly and gently.
2. Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA).
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Beta Hydroxy Acid, or better known as salicylic acid, is an oil-soluble exfoliating ingredient. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (www.aad.org), BHA is very effective for oily and acne-prone skin because of its ability to penetrate pores and cleanse sebum.
Additionally, salicylic acid not only exfoliates but also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal choice for treating acne and oily skin.
3. Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs).
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Polyhydroxy Acids are the newest generation of exfoliating acids. Quoting briliobeauty.net, Tuesday (30/7) research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, PHAs offer similar exfoliation benefits to AHAs but with a lower risk of irritation.
Not only that, this ingredient can also be used for sensitive skin, and treats skin problems such as rosacea and eczema.
Meanwhile, there are various types of Polyhydroxy Acids, namely gluconolactone, lactobionic acid and maltobionic acid.
4. Enzymes.
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Enzymatic exfoliation uses enzymes from fruit to break down the keratin protein that binds dead skin cells. According to a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, enzymatic exfoliation offers a gentler approach than acids.
Well, the enzymes usually used in skincare products are papain from papaya, bromelain from pineapple, and ficin from figs. Apart from that, this enzyme can be used for sensitive or dry skin.
5. Physical Exfoliants.
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Even though they are not chemicals, physical exfoliants are still important to discuss. These ingredients work by mechanically removing dead skin cells. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, using physical exfoliants that are too harsh or too frequent can damage the skin barrier.
Well, examples of gentler physical exfoliants are jojoba beads, bamboo powder, rice bran. As additional information, physical exfoliants. Meanwhile, using physical exfoliants is enough to apply with light pressure to avoid microtears on the skin.
(brl/wen)