Here's your guide to exfoliation for younger looking skin

SHED THE SKIN YOU'RE IN

With exfoliation, you can remove the top layer of dead skin cells to reveal a brighter, more even complexion, with reduced congestion and fewer blackheads and pigmentation spots. Without the dead skin, your serum and moisturizer can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin and have a greater effect.

The ancient Egyptians – true beauty enthusiasts - were the first to understand that the key to healthy skin was exfoliation. Although the body naturally sheds 30,000-40,000 dead skin cells each minute, physical or chemical exfoliation is beneficial if you want to address oily or blemish-prone skin, as well as pigmentation and signs of aging.

HOW TO EXFOLIATE YOUR FACE

There are two types of exfoliation: physical and chemical. The former relies on mechanical cleansing brushes, grains and scrubs whereas the latter usually uses alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) or beta hydroxy acids (BHA). 

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lina Kennedy from California weighs in on the power of AHA's:

AHAs are powerhouse ingredients that give you that skin glow by combatting dullness, roughness, dark spots, acne and much more. They take your skin care routine to the next level by also improving absorption of your other skincare products. I recommend gentle chemical exfoliation 1-3 times a week.

You can follow Dr. Kennedy at www.instagram.com/linakennedy_md

PHYSICAL EXFOLIATION

Physical exfoliation with the Mild Exfoliating Refiner: Give yourself a gentle facial massage as you remove any dead skin cells. Apply to wet, cleansed skin avoiding the eyes and lips. Gently massage face with a circular motion. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

CHEMICAL EXFOLIATION WITH GLYCOLIC ACID

Glycolic acid - an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), is an excellent exfoliating agent. Derived from cane sugar, glycolic acid is the smallest molecule in the group of AHA actives so it is able to penetrate the skin deeply and easily, making it the most effective AHA.

Chemical peels use a high percentage of this acid and can be very effective when done safely and properly. An even better way to use glycolic acid is as a daily exfoliator, providing the same results as stronger peels but greater ease and safety … and often better results as the consistent application makes the effects cumulative.