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Preparing Your Skin For the Fall
Before the summer sun is replaced with autumn leaves, it is important to make sure that your skin is prepared for the seasonal transition. The best way to ensure this is to exfoliate away all the damage that the sun has caused to the skin over the course of the last few months.
One major benefit to exfoliation is that it helps with collagen reproduction. While everyone loves the sunshine, too much sun exposure begins to break down collagen a very important protein in your skin. Collagen is a connective substance that firms, regenerates, and restores the skin. Exfoliation kick starts collagen production because the mild irritation it causes triggers a healing response where fibroblast cells begin synthesizing collagen fibers.
Exfoliating also helps to unclog pores, fix uneven skin tones, and to reduce signs of aging. There are two different types of exfoliation you can get done to slough off your damaged skin cells and make way for new ones.
Chemical Exfoliation
Chemical exfoliation removes dead skin cells by using various acids and enzymes to work within the skin. A chemical is applied to the top layer of the skin and then removed. The skin absorbs the chemical, allowing it to penetrate deep within the skin, exfoliating it from the inside out. Popular chemical peel agents are alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA) and beta hydroxyl acid (BHA).
BHA is indicated for oily, acne prone skin and AHA for sensitive, aging, dry, sun damaged skin. Another method of chemical exfoliation is by way of fruit enzymes. These work the same as the chemical acids, however, they are derived from fruits. Fruit enzymes are usually less aggressive than AHA and BHA acids.
Mechanical Exfoliation
Mechanical exfoliation removes dead skin cells using abrasion with granules or micro beads. This is the most popular method of exfoliation among newbies, because it doesn't require as much down time as chemical exfoliation. In fact, you may be practicing mechanical exfoliation without even knowing it. Scrubs, brushes, and abrasive gloves are all types of mechanical exfoliation.
Despite the fact that there are only two exfoliation types, it still can get fairly confusing trying to figure out which one is best for you. A common misconception is that exfoliation is strictly for oily skin. However, dry skin needs to be exfoliated as well.
Visit an aesthetician that can assess your skin and determine which type would benefit you the most. You'll be glad you did.
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