All articles tagged with #chemical exfoliants
Hormonal acne, often appearing on the chin and jawline, is characterized by deep, painful pimples that follow a cyclic pattern, often linked to menstrual cycles and stress. Effective management includes using chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid, topical retinoids, stress reduction techniques, and maintaining a consistent skincare routine. Consulting a dermatologist for a tailored treatment plan is also recommended.
Exfoliating is an important step in skincare to remove dead skin cells and improve the appearance of the skin. There are two types of exfoliators: chemical and physical. Chemical exfoliants use ingredients like glycolic acid or salicylic acid to dissolve dead skin cells, while physical exfoliants involve scrubbing or brushing to physically remove them. It's important to choose the right exfoliator for your skin type, with gentle options like PHAs for sensitive skin and salicylic acid for acne-prone skin. Exfoliating once or twice a week is generally recommended, but it depends on your skin's tolerance. Some recommended products include First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment, and Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub.
A Cornell dermatologist advises against using abrasive exfoliant scrubs with large, irregularly shaped or jagged granules, as they can cause microtears, redness, irritation, and sensitivity. Instead, she recommends chemical exfoliants with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid, which gently eliminate dead skin cells and improve texture and tone. For sensitive or rosacea-prone skin, physical exfoliants with uniformly-shaped, smooth granules or powder-based scrubs made with clay or bamboo extract are recommended. It is important to limit exfoliation to once or twice a week and consult with a dermatologist to determine the best product for individual needs. Some recommended products include Paula's Choice skin perfecting 2% BHA liquid exfoliant, First Aid Beauty facial radiance pads, and The Ordinary AHA and BHA peeling solution.