Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from
the skin’s outermost surface. An
individual sheds approximately 5 billion skin cells per day. Desquamation is a natural process where new skin cells
migrate from the basal layer up to the stratum corneum of the epidermis where they are shed
off. The new skin cells are plump and round; however, as they
approach the skin’s surface they
become flatter and die off accumulating keratin, a protein that forms a protective layer. The process of desquamation can take as
little as 12-19 days in teenagers and up to 60-90 days as we age. Some skin cells may linger clogging and congesting pores creating a lack luster complexion.
Exfoliation facilitates this process by
sloughing off dull, dead skin cells and encourages skin turnover to speed
up. Exfoliation helps skin to look
more radiant and allows products to penetrate better. It is great for acne prone skin by removing debris that can
collect inside pores and hair follicles causing breakouts. It’s also been shown to stimulate the production of collagen.
There are two types of exfoliants: mechanical and
chemical. Mechanical exfoliation
uses ingredients such as oats, pumpkin, and papaya to physically scrub away dead skin
cells. Chemical exfoliants
use hydroxy acids or enzymes to dissolve the adhesions between skin cells so
they can easily be removed. Chemical exfoliants include salicylic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, and fruit enzymes.
Leaf People has several mechanical exfoliation products such as: Green Papaya Scrub, Transform Age Reversing Scrub, and Pumpkin Rose Scrub all of which pair well with the Aloe and Honey Activator. Also, the Oatmeal Face Wash combines well with the Herbal Foaming Face Wash to make a gentle exfoliating scrub. Check out Bella Fiore Organics to learn more.
