Exfoliants for intense facial cleansing & THE Glow!!
- thatsglow
- Nov 30, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 29, 2024
Do you miss the glow we get to see so often on YouTube, TikTok or Instagram? Or do you find your skin too dull?
One of the celebrities' secrets against pale and dull skin is using exfoliants. In Asia, too, they are a fundamental part of facial care. And that has it's reason….
Contents

Whether mechanically, by means of acids or enzymes. We have a multitude of options that we can choose between.
This post covers methods to use at home. Treatments such as microdermabrasion or laser treatments belong in the hands of a beautician or dermatologist.

What are the benefits of exfoliating?
Exfoliants thoroughly remove makeup, cream, sebum or sweat residues. In addition, dead skin cells are effectively removed. Dry skin in particular quickly looks pale. This is where exfoliants can help.
What accumulates daily from cosmetics, environmental influences or working out should be given an extra portion of cleansing 1-2 times a week.
Our hair gets regular treatments as well, right? :)
As goodie on top 👑:
After exfoliating care products can penetrate the skin better.
What are the effects of exfoliating?
The removal of dead skin cells stimulates cell renewal. Cell production slows down with age. So with an exfoliant we can help to bring out fresh, rosy skin. Clogged pores are cleaned, blackheads removed which makes the pores less noticeable.
Depending on the type of exfoliant, there are other effects such as promoting collagen production and reducing wrinkles.
The result: Used regularly, your complexion looks more radiant, the skin looks more even, fresh and fine-pored with the special glow.

Do`s
Normally it is recommended to use exfoliants 1-2 times a week. Of course, it all depends on the type of peeling, the concentration and your skin condition. So there is no general rule really.
With acids start slowly and observe how your skin reacts to them. Build your routine accordingly. You can gradually shorten the intervals.
Use exfoliants in the evening as removing dead skin cells makes the skin a bit more sensitive to light and can recover well overnight.
Sun protection is generally recommended.
Don`ts/Be careful with
In case of skin problems, it is best to talk to a dermatologist in advance.
Some types of peeling are, for example, not suitable for inflammatory acne, rosacea, barrier disorders or similar…
Do not use any other potentially irritating products such as retinol in the evening after the application of acids.
If there is an allergy to Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), consult a doctor beforehand if you want to use BHA (salicylic acid).

Types of exfoliants
Mechanical Peels
Contains e.g. granules.
This exfoliant activates skin circulation through mechanical movement and has a superficial effect. Clogged pores are cleaned well, blackheads are removed.
Exfoliating gloves or brushes are often relatively firm and can be used on the body.
Especially here, be careful with superficial skin diseases. Consult a dermatologist if you`re not sure.
Products*
AOK Seesand Peeling

Enzyme Exfoliants for sensitive skin
Enzyme exfoliants are very gentle with a superficial effect. They clean pores and remove blackheads effectively. They are very suitable for sensitive skin.
Usually they are available in form of powders that are mixed together or masks.
Enzyme peels work via various enzymes such as lipase or protease. Bromelain is extracted from pineapple, for example, papain from papaya. The enzymes loosen the bond of the dead cells without rubbing so that they can easily be removed after application.
Produkte bspw.*
Dermalogica
Chemical peels

AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) = fruit acid,
BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) = salicylic acid,
LHA (Lipo Hydroxy Acid) = derivative of salicylic acid,
PHA (Poly Hydroxy Acid)
Acids are a more extensive topic, so there is an extra post here…⬅️
Chemical peels penetrate the skin more or less deeply, depending on the acid.
They remove dead skin cells and in addition to the above-mentioned cleansing effect for pores and blackheads, the fruit acid in particular stimulates the skin to renew cells, the skin is better moisturized and small wrinkles are reduced.
They are available as lotions, foam, gel, in liquid form.
Starting with acids you may experience a slight tingling sensation (mostly AHA). The skin has to get used to the active ingredient, so it is better to start slowly and gradually increase. For sensitive skin, use a gentle acid such as LHA or PHA.