When it comes to exfoliation, there are two main methods to consider: manual or chemical.
Chemical exfoliation involves using acids or enzymes to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, while manual exfoliation involves physically scrubbing the skin – gently – to remove the top dead layer.
But why would anyone want to put acid on their skin or scrub at it? Both sound a little alarming. Fear not. Exfoliating benefits include bringing out a brighter layer of skin – and some chemical exfoliants can improve skin texture – counteracting hyperpigmentation and resurfacing.
The two methods don’t battle against one another. You can use both to get your desired results. Physical exfoliation once a week or fortnightly, combined with daily chemical exfoliating, will have your face looking fresh. Remember, with chemicals, start with a low dose, build up tolerance and pick the right formula that works with your skin type.
1. Exfoliate 2% BHA £34, paulaschoice.co.uk
2. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% +HA £7.90, theordinary.com
3. Kate Somerville ExfoliKate £78, katesomerville.com
4. Pixi Skintreats Peel & Polish £26, pixibeauty.co.uk
5. Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant £65, spacenk.com
6. 111Skin Rose Quartz Exfoliating Mask £120, 111skin.com
7. The Body Shop Vitamin C Daily Glow Cleansing Polish £14, bodyshop.com
8. ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish £58, zo-skinhealth.co.uk
9. Murad Hydration AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser £43, murad.co.uk
10. La Roche-Posay Ultrafine Scrub £12.50, lookfantastic.com
