How much exfoliation is too much? We’ve asked Karen Sinclair of Skin Results for her expert recommendations on the perfectly balanced skincare routine.
KAREN SINCLAIR
skinresultsclinic.co.nz
facebook.com/skinresultsltd
Exfoliators can be a good way to shed dead skin cells to reveal radiant skin underneath, but by removing the upper top layer of the skin – the stratum corneum – you are breaking the naturally functional barrier that protects your skin from harmful agents such as bacteria, fungi and chemicals while preventing the loss of fluids (hydration and moisture).
Although exfoliators and exfoliation treatments do give instant smoothness to the skin, removing this protective layer on a regular basis can affect its health. Often, with overuse of exfoliants, the skin takes on a wax-like texture, which might look healthy for a while but is, in fact, exposing the skin underneath resulting in premature ageing.
Contrary to what some people believe, exfoliators aren’t always the correct approach for oily/combination skins, rosacea, acne, pigmentation, sensitive or dry skin, or sun damaged skin and overuse can result in your skin becoming irritated and inflamed, with breakouts happening more often. Remember, your skin is a live organ and we need to respect its integrity and function a whole lot more than many of us are currently doing.
However, there are many other treatments and skin ingredients that can provide excellent results and smoothness to the skin surface without compromising the skin’s health e.g. enzymes, Oxy Hydra Jet-Peel, Vitamin A, antioxidants, FaceDR facials, peels etc.
At Skin Results, I offer professional one-on-one consultations and treatments for all your skin needs.
Image by wayhomestudio/Freepik
