Is Chemical Exfoliation Good for Your Skin?

Rubbing acids into your skin might not sound like your idea of a good time, but did you know it is one of the best ways to clear dead skin cells? Welcome to the world of Chemical Exfoliation. We wanted to break down what makes chemical exfoliation so good for your skin and how you can use treatments like this in to improve your skin. 

What Is Chemical Exfoliation? 

Exfoliation is the process of using a product or treatment to remove dead skin cells from the surface of your face and body. There are two main types of exfoliation. One is physical exfoliation, which involves using abrasive materials to manually scrub away the cells. This includes everything from using a washcloth on your face to specific scrubs and brushes that pull at the skin. 

Chemical exfoliation, meanwhile, involves putting a safe, topical acid on the surface of your skin to dissolve the dead cells. There are several different products that you might consider for yourself depending on your skin type and the treatment you want. Chemical exfoliants range from over-the-counter treatments to in-office chemical peels provided by licensed professionals. 

Does Chemical Exfoliation Hurt? 

No!  

Chemical exfoliation, if done properly, shouldn’t hurt. It will likely make your face feel cleaner and better than before. However, many different types of chemical exfoliants are used to treat various skin conditions or symptoms. If you’re considering using an over-the-counter exfoliant, consult an esthetician and make sure the treatment is proper for your needs.  

Is Chemical Exfoliation Good for Your Skin? 

Absolutely! 

Our face naturally sheds dead skin cells frequently. But that doesn’t mean the dead cells immediately get removed from the surface. Exfoliation is a great way to remove the debris from your skin and to also clear off anything else clogging your pores. Chemical exfoliation is a great way to get a bit deeper than just the surface level. Hydroxy acids, such as salicylic and glycolic acids, can penetrate the skin for deeper exfoliation. 

Are Chemical Exfoliants Safe? 

Yes! 

Since chemical exfoliants do not involve rubbing the skin, they are generally safer than many physical exfoliants. Chemical exfoliants are generally milder than physical exfoliants, which means they can be used by those with sensitive skin or darker skin tones that may be more prone to scarring. Because chemical exfoliants don’t manually remove skin, there’s less risk of overdoing it and ending up with irritated skin. 

When Should I Use Chemical Exfoliants? 

Most exfoliants only need to be used two or three times a week, but deeper chemical peels might be different. Contact a dermatologist or your esthetician to learn more about the treatment that is right for you!