An exfoliation is an essential part of the facial skin care of an acne prone skin. This is because the acne prone skin is unable to shed the dead skin cells on its own and requires an outside agent for this purpose. It removes the dead cells that clog the skin pores and also reduces the excess of oil present on the skin surface. Thus, the two main problems that cause the infection and result in outbreak of pimples, blackheads and whiteheads, are eliminated.
There are two different types of exfoliators: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliators consist of grains which when rubbed against the skin surface removes the dead skin cells. However, it is not suitable for acne prone skin which is highly sensitive. The ideal exfoliator for acne prone skin is the one that uses chemicals that loosen the bond that holds the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin.
Different Types of Exfoliators
Most of the chemical based exfoliators that are available in the market consist of acids and enzymes that helps to get rid of the dead skin cells and expose the fresh and smooth underlying skin. They are found in the forms of lotions, gels, etc. Those exfoliating products that contains 2% beta-hydroxy acid or salicylic acid is considered as the best exfoliator for acne prone skin. As the beta-hydroxy acids are soluble in oil, it is more effective in treating the blemishes and scars left behind by the acne. Then there are exfoliators with alpha hydroxy acids that are also highly beneficial for acne prone skin. Retinol based exfoliating agents can also be used on this type of skin. Retinol is basically a form of vitamin A which will help to improve the overall skin condition.
Then there are different chemical peels that can be safely used for removal of dead skin cells. Peels which contain Glycolic acid and Hydroquinone as components act gently on the skin and can be used regularly at home. Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) peels are widely used by the dermatologists for exfoliation of the skin which in turn also kills the bacteria lying under the surface of the skin. Thus, the root cause of acne is eliminated.
If you are looking for natural exfoliators for your sensitive skin. Then you can prepare a fruit mask using one cup of grated apple and 5 tablespoonful of honey. Apply it on all those areas where acne tend to erupt more and wait for around 10-15 minutes. Then wash it off gently with cold water without rubbing the skin much. There are other exfoliating agents including various lavender essential oil and rose wood oil.
Tips for Exfoliating Acne Prone Skin
When you are exfoliating your skin at home, you have to keep certain things in mind. Here are a few useful tips that you should follow:
- Wash your face thoroughly with your regular facial cleanser before your apply the exfoliator on the skin.
- Do not rub the skin too much while applying the exfoliator as it will cause a lot of skin irritation later.
- After washing off the exfoliator, do not rub the towel on your face. Just pat it gently to soak up the water.
- After exfoliation, the skin tends to become dry and flaky. Therefore, do not forget to apply a good quality moisturizer soon after exfoliation.
- The best time to exfoliate the skin is at night before going to bed. This is will give the skin enough time to rest before.
