The Skin Cycle and Exfoliation: A Guide to Revealing Your Best Skin

Our skin is our body's largest organ, and we get it; choosing the right products to nourish it can be confusing. Our skin is continuously undergoing a process known as the skin cycle. Getting your skin to a healthy and happy place starts with understanding how it functions. Exfoliation is one of the most effective ways to promote smoother, brighter, more youthful skin. Let's get into the skin cycle and how exfoliation could help you reveal your healthiest skin.

The Skin Cycle: Renewal and Regeneration

You might have heard the skin cycle be called the cell turnover process or the natural renewal and regeneration of skin cells. The skin cycle involves the shedding of dead skin cells from the top layer of your skin, the Stratum Corneum, and the production of new cells in the deeper layers of your skin barrier. This process takes about 28 to 40 days in younger individuals but slows down as we age, leading to rough, dull, uneven skin texture.

Exfoliation: Promoting A Healthy Skin Cycle

Exfoliants work to remove dead skin cells from the skin's surface, accelerating the skin cycle for a fresher, smoother, glowier complexion. Regular exfoliation can help enhance the absorption of skincare products, allowing them to penetrate the skin more effectively.

Different Types of Exfoliation:

1. Physical Exfoliation: Physical exfoliants scrub away dead skin cells and excess oils with granules or particles. Common physical exfoliants include scrubs, exfoliating brushes, sponges, and microbeads. Many physical exfoliants can be harsh on sensitive skin, so if this is your preferred method of exfoliation, be sure to choose a gentle scrub that won't lead to microtears in the skin. Our Fresh Grapefruit Face Scrub is made for people who hate face scrubs. This gentle, hydrating cleanser exfoliates your skin with Jojoba Beads and Bamboo Powder while Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil, Rice Bran Oil, and Colloidal Oats moisturize dry skin.
2. Chemical Exfoliation: Chemical exfoliants use active ingredients like Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. This process allows cells to slough off more effectively, leaving soft, radiant skin behind. AHA exfoliants like Lactic Acid and Glycolic Acid are water soluble and work on the skin's surface, while BHA exfoliants are oil soluble and penetrate deeper into your barrier. Our Flower Hour Toner combines the best of both worlds with 5% Lactic Acid (AHA) and 2% White Willow Bark Extract (BHA). This gentle exfoliant rids your skin of dead skin cells without stripping it of moisture thanks to our soothing flower blend of Chamomile, Rose Water, and Aloe, as well as ProVitamin B5.
3. Enzyme Exfoliation: Enzyme exfoliants use natural enzymes, often derived from fruits like papaya or pineapple, to break down the proteins that hold dead skin cells together. They provide a gentler exfoliation suitable for sensitive skin.

Choosing the Right Exfoliation Method:

1. Skin Type: Consider your skin type when choosing an exfoliant. If you have acne-prone skin, physical exfoliants will likely be too harsh.
2. Frequency: The frequency in which you exfoliate depends on your individual skin concerns. For most people, exfoliating 1-2 times per week is sufficient.
3. Patch Test: Patch testing is vital when it comes to any skincare product, not just exfoliants. This helps to ensure your skin can tolerate the product before applying it and possibly irritating your entire face.

The skin cycle and exfoliation are crucial in maintaining a healthy, vibrant complexion. Understanding the skin cycle and using appropriate exfoliation methods can support your skin's natural renewal process and achieve smoother, more radiant skin. Whether you opt for physical, chemical, or enzyme exfoliation, always remember to exfoliate gently, avoid over-exfoliating, and protect your skin with sunscreen to maintain its youthful glow and overall health.