4 rules for selecting the right exfoliating products

The world of Cosmeceuticals (the industry name for all the wonderful products you use to combat your skin conditions) is filled with an overwhelming amount of choice. From scientifically developed facial toners to organically cultivated facial scrubs the dizzying array of exfoliating products on the market today can confuse even the most in-tune facial fanatics.

And in no area is this confusion more apparent than in the world of exfoliating products where you can find yourself staring in awe at the number of ways there are to remove the dead skin, oil and other debris from your face. With all the scrubs, creams, serums, exfoliating pads and peels in your face, you might be wondering where to start!

Now before you go walking away with a cart full of exfoliating products or perhaps not as extreme, with the wrong product, you’d be happy to know that selecting the right exfoliating product isn’t that hard if you follow these easy rules!

Rule 1 – Know your facial type

Ask any Dermatologist why most at home skin care treatments fail and they will tell you that, “the person wasn’t treating themselves with the right product for their skin type.” Knowing your skin type will ensure that you are selecting the right product, since most exfoliating products come with a system indicating the skin types that should use the product.

Rule 2 – Don’t forget a cleanser and toner

Exfoliating products are the heavy lifters in any skin care treatment, so don’t wear them out by making them remove the surface oils and debris on your face. A good cleanser and toner will ensure that all surface oils and debris on your face are removed, ensuring your exfoliating products can work to remove those dead, dull layers of skin.

Rule 3 – There’s no need to get physical

There are two primary types of exfoliating products, physical and chemical, that you’ll find on the shelf today, but only one that you should consider; chemical. While in theory the idea of little “balls” working away to remove dead skin cells sounds great, in reality physical exfoliating products use abrasives which have been known to leave scars and cause intense facial irritation. Whenever possible use a chemical exfoliant!

Rule 4 – Glycolic acid is the king

Dermatologist recommended, glycolic acid is the latest and greatest chemical exfoliant that been proven the most effective way to exfoliate your face without the harsh side effects of physical exfoliants or salicylic based chemical exfoliants. You’ll pay a little more, but the more beautiful, healthier looking skin will be well worth it!

Hopefully these four rules will help you select the right exfoliating products. We know it’s sure helped us. On to more beautiful skin!