While many of us will know that the leading purpose is to remove the dead, dull surface cells that sit on our skin, most people won’t know that there are two types of face exfoliator. Physical and chemical. Physical are often rinse-off scrubs, polishers or masks and include small particles that manually scrub the skin – in general, they are what we immediately associate with the term ‘exfoliation’. In contrast, chemical exfoliators come in the form of serums and moisturisers. Enriched with ingredients that loosen the dead skin cells, chemical exfoliators are products that we leave on the skin to do their own work. In healthy skin, cells renew every 28 days, but this process slows with age. Exfoliation helps to remove these dead skin cells alongside dirt and bacteria, so you are left with smoother, healthier looking skin.

This really depends on the results you are looking for in your skin. The first thing to decide is whether you would like physical or chemical. If you are looking for the instant gratification of soft, supple feeling skin then try a physical exfoliator. Offering deep exfoliation that provides you with bright and radiant looking skin, we love the MODERN FRICTION NATURE’S GENTLE DERMABRASION. Rice starch, cushioned in a soft cream, rapidly banishes sluggish cells while lemon oil kickstarts the process of illumination. Alternatively, if you’re looking for longer-term help with skin clarity and cell turnover then opt for chemical exfoliation. A great natural exfoliator is our HIGH-POTENCY NIGHT-A-MINS RESURFACING CREAM. Infused with AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) that encourage new skin cell turnover and vitamins B, C, E and H that replenish your skin while you sleep, this 2-in-1 overnight moisturizer and peel hydrates your skin and lifts any dry, dead layers away.

While exfoliation can be hugely beneficial, over-exfoliation is something to be wary of. It can lead to visibly irritated and uncomfortable skin, therefore always follow the specific directions for each product and ensure you don’t stray from the usage recommendations. We also suggest looking for complementary products to use alongside your exfoliators; a daily sunscreen will help to protect your skin if you are using chemical [exfoliating cleansers]. If you are worried about the sensitivity of your skin, then start by using the product on a small patch of your skin, gradually increasing to your whole face, and build up the frequency of usage in accordance with recommendations.