Focus on exfoliating active ingredients
For some time now, we have been told the importance of exfoliating our skin at least once a week. But then why are these exfoliating treatments so important for the skin? Well, it's thanks to exfoliating active ingredients: these little magicians transform the skin by eliminating dead cells. From radiance to cellular renewal, including the fight against imperfections, let's dive together into this fascinating universe to discover how to make your skin irresistibly soft and luminous.
SUMMARY
- The definition of an exfoliating active ingredient and its importance
- The different exfoliating active ingredients and their actions
- Exfoliating treatments for soft skin
I) The definition of an exfoliating active ingredient and its importance
An active ingredient is a substance integrated into your beauty treatments: cream, mask, oil, etc. to give it a particular action and/or benefit. So, an exfoliating active ingredient is a cosmetic ingredient specially designed to gently exfoliate the skin, thus eliminating dead cells that accumulate on its surface. This elimination is crucial for maintaining the health and beauty of the epidermis, as it promotes cell renewal and prevents many skin problems.
There are two main types of exfoliating active ingredients, each working in a distinct way to reveal smoother, more radiant skin:
1. Chemical exfoliants, which work without requiring physical scrubbing. They include ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and enzymes. These chemical compounds dissolve the bonds between dead cells, making them easier to remove without mechanical abrasion.
2. Mechanical exfoliants, on the other hand, rely on physical action to exfoliate the skin. They use small grains like sugar, salt, or fruit stone powders, which, when massaged into the skin, mechanically roll off and loosen dead cells. This method can be very satisfactory but still requires some caution to avoid irritating the skin, especially for sensitive skin.
Exfoliating the skin helps improve its texture, making the complexion brighter and more even. It also reduces the appearance of blackheads and imperfections, and frees pores, thus preventing excessive sebum production often responsible for the appearance of spots. Additionally, cell renewal stimulated by exfoliation fights signs of skin aging, leaving your skin revitalized and radiant. Indeed, over time, the natural regeneration of skin cells slows down, which can lead to a dull complexion and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Regular exfoliation helps keep this process moving, revealing smoother, firmer skin.
Finally by removing the top layer of dead cells, exfoliation also paves the way for better absorption of skincare products, allowing your serums and moisturizers to penetrate deeper to work more effectively.
Note that exfoliation can benefit all skin types but the choice of exfoliating active ingredient must be adapted according to its sensitivity.
II) The different exfoliating active ingredients and their actions
In the quest for smooth and luminous skin thanks to exfoliation, several active ingredients have proven themselves:
BHA (Beta-Hydroxylated Acids):
Their effectiveness lies in their special abilities to penetrate pores to remove excess sebum and dead cells, thereby reducing blemishes and blackheads. These active ingredients, like salicylic acid, are therefore recommended for oily, acne-prone skin.
AHA (Alpha-Hydroxylated Acids):
These Fruit Acids exfoliate the upper layer of the epidermis, thus promoting cell renewal. With their gentle and purifying “peeling” effect, they eliminate dead skin cells, revealing more luminous and uniform skin while improving its texture. AHAs include glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid and citric acid. Also having a moisturizing effect, this active ingredient is recommended for normal to dry skin as well as for dull complexions because let's not forget that AHAs make the skin brighter.
PHA (Poly-Hydroxylated Acids):
They are gentle exfoliants perfect for sensitive skin, including gluconolactone acid which provides effective exfoliation without aggression. Unlike AHAs and BHAs, they have a larger molecular structure, so their penetration into the skin is lighter and gentler, which reduces the risk of irritation. They also hydrate, while promoting cell renewal, making them ideal for sensitive skin.
Castor beans:
These beads, made from Castor Oil, offer a gentle and ecological exfoliating alternative to synthetic particles. Suitable for frequent use, they stand out thanks to their gentle exfoliating properties that do not cause irritation. These beads are distinguished by their effectiveness in eliminating dead cells while respecting the sensitivity of the epidermis.
Coconut Shell Powder:
This powder is a natural exfoliant made from crushed coconut husks. It is known for its ability to provide more intense exfoliation, making it ideal for skin requiring deep exfoliation. Its texture effectively dislodges impurities and dead cells.
Jojoba beads:
Obtained from Jojoba Oil, these exfoliating beads gently eliminate impurities and dead cells without attacking the skin. Thanks to their finesse and softness, they provide intense cleansing which reveals a clear and luminous complexion, without the risk of micro-scratches. In addition to their cleansing properties, these beads also promote blood circulation, helping to revitalize and refresh the appearance of the skin.
III) Exfoliating treatments for very soft skin
Incorporating exfoliation into your beauty routine is quite simple. This step takes place just after cleansing your skin and before applying your masks and/or daily care products. Regarding frequency, it is recommended to exfoliate your skin 1 to 2 times a week so as not to damage it too much. However, there is no universal rule, the most important thing is to listen to yourself and find out if you feel the need to exfoliate your skin. Moreover, it is not the frequency but rather the regularity of this practice which is the key to maintaining beautiful skin. Too much exfoliation can irritate and dry out the skin, while too little can leave dead skin cells building up.
- Facial exfoliation
For your face, opt for our Exfoliating Peel. It is suitable for all skin types. Indeed, if your skin is sensitive, we advise you to choose the enzymatic action, leaving the peeling on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. Thanks to Fruit Acids (AHA), this flash mask gently eliminates impurities and dead cells without irritating the skin. If you have slightly less sensitive skin, you can opt for a mechanical exfoliator. Upon application, perform circular massages to remove dead skin with damp fingers then rinse with lukewarm water. Here, Jojoba Beads, soft and fine, exfoliate the skin without causing micro-scratches. Finally, you can combine the 2 actions for a complete and effective treatment by leaving it on for 10 to 15 minutes before performing circular massages to remove dead skin. Your skin texture is refined and your skin is purified and ready to receive the care in your routine.
For your body, we recommend our Exfoliating Shower Gel, a 2-in-1 treatment: you will no longer have an excuse to miss the exfoliation step! In fact, this dual-action product combines cleansing and exfoliation in a single gesture. Thanks to Coconut Shell Powder and Castor Beads, it exfoliates the skin without attacking it and effectively eliminates dead cells. Their nourishing and softening properties leave the skin smooth and comfortable. In addition, enjoy its gourmet Banana-Coconut fragrance which will take you on a journey of well-being.
Maximizing the effects of your exfoliation also involves hydration and protection. After exfoliation, your skin is more receptive to care. Using moisturizers rich in nourishing ingredients strengthens the skin barrier, ensuring better water retention in the skin which prevents dehydration. For this, we recommend our Radiance Soothing Gel for the face which guarantees 24-hour hydration. For the body, apply our SOS Nourishing Body Lotion which perfects your body routine and leaves your skin soft and comfortable.
Exfoliating active ingredients now have no secrets for you. Whether you opt for an enzymatic, mechanical approach or both, get ready to rediscover your skin like you've never seen it before!
