Exfoliators

An exfoliator removes dead skin cells from the top layer of your skin, often with the help of a grainy substance, exfoliating tool, or chemicals. Your skin will appear lighter, brighter, and more youthful. Even though these cells will eventually fall off on their own, the facial exfoliator will assist in clearing them away sooner.

There are 2 common types of exfoliators: chemical and physical.

For a chemical exfoliator, it is recommended to find a product that contains Alpha-hydroxy acids, commonly known as AHAs - water-soluble chemical compounds that help remove dead skin cells. Clarins offers Beauty Flash Peel with Alpha Hydroxy Acid, which works on all levels of the skin to effectively and visibly target a lack of radiance, uneven skin and visible wrinkles.

For a physical face exfoliator, a face scrub is the most common type of product you can find. Avoid products that have big beads, which can potentially damage or irritate your skin. Try the Comfort Scrub, with a gel-oil formula and sugar microcrystals from beetroot which transforms into a milky veil upon contact with water to help combat skin’s dryness.

For a face scrub, you should gently massage a quarter-sized amount of scrub into your skin in circular motions for 30 seconds. For chemical face exfoliators, you should not leave it on longer than 10 minutes.

You should use facial exfoliators 2–3 times a week. For chemical exfoliators, it’s recommended to use them at night due to their potential to make your skin sensitive to the sun. Remember to use skincare products with SPF the next day to protect your skin from UV rays.

For a face scrub, it is better to apply it on damp skin. For a chemical face exfoliator, it is generally optimal when applied to dry skin.