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If you think exfoliating is just for the rich and famous, think again.
What is exfoliating and who needs it? Good question. As a dermatologist I get asked this question all the time.
Simply stated, exfoliation is removing the dead skin cells from the top surface of the skin.
Why exfoliate? Did you know that you shed dead skin cells naturally? About every 2-4 weeks you generate a new layer of skin. The old skin cells die off, and are shed. Exfoliating speeds up that process of shedding the dead skin cells, giving you a healthy glow as the new, more translucent skin tissue underneath is exposed.
Exfoliating is also a healthy way to care for your skin, preventing dead skin cells, as well as minute particles of dust and dirt, from clogging pores and causing whiteheads and blackheads.
Everyone can benefit from exfoliating – from teens to elders, and both men and women. Exfoliating is one of the easiest things to do to care for your face, and can be relatively inexpensive. Exfoliating gels and lotions, as well as exfoliating cloths and gloves, are readily available in many stores. You can also research online for how to make numerous different types of home-made exfoliators.
If you need a more intense exfoliating treatment, you can discuss the options with your dermatologist. These would include microdermabrasion procedures and chemical peels.
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure performed by a medical technician to mechanically remove dead skin cells. Crystals, such as aluminum or sodium bicarbonate, can be used, as well as organic grains, diamond tips and bristle tips. Microdermabrasion is not to be confused with Dermabrasion, which is a surgical procedure that goes deeper, and is often used to remove acne scars and fine wrinkles.
Chemical peels use a chemical solution to slough off dead skin cells, and although some are available for purchase, I recommend that for your safety you only have this procedure performed by a medical specialist. A couple of the more common chemical peels are alpha-hydroxy acid and retinoic acid.
In Europe the Vineotherapy version of chemical exfoliation is gaining popularity. This procedure is performed at spas, and utilizes the natural chemicals from grapes to exfoliate by rubbing wine-making residue (the pips and the pulp) into the skin.
If you incorporate exfoliation into your routine skin care (no more than once/week), be sure to dab rather than rub, and above all keep your skin well moisturized. Removing dead skin cells leaves the new skin vulnerable to drying out, which can cause wrinkles, just the opposite of what you are trying to achieve.
Dr. Tess Mauricio, “America’s Favorite Dermatologist,” is an author, renowned international speaker, physician educator and nationally known media personality. She is the Founder of Scripps Ranch Dermatology & Cosmetic center in San Diego and Dr. Tess Dermatology in La Jolla, California. Learn more online at drtessmd.