Gentle cleansing

Want the benefits of a good scrub without the possible inflammation? Try this

Exfoliation gives the skin an additional boost, getting rid of the old dead cells so the newer ones can take their place. Regular exfoliation can stimulate collagen production and improve skin cell turnover, even clearing out clogged pores and reducing breakouts.

However, physical scrubs, which consist of granular or beaded scrubs, are sometimes abrasive on the skin, causing inflammation.

Which is why ‘micro-exfoliation’! Micro-exfoliation is a gentler version of exfoliation, using milder enzymes, skincare acids in low percentages or foaming bicarbonate solutions. So also, micro-exfoliation can be done more often and by all skin types.

According to Dr Ajay Rana, renowned dermatologist and aesthetic physician, microexfoliation is the mildest form of exfoliating. “It’s more active than deep cleansing yet less intense than acidic chemical or more abrasive physical scrub exfoliation,” explains the doctor, who adds that a microfoliation (or micro-exfoliation) can come in the form of either chemical or physical exfoliants. “While exfoliation is perhaps the most important step for glowing skin, it may not be enough if the skin still feels dull and dry even after the layer of serums, moisturisers and makeup.”

PROCESS

Dr Rana further points out that when it comes to acids for microexfoliation, it’s best to go for mild malic acid, lactic acid and mandelic acid. “They increase cell turnover by breaking the glue between dead skin cells,” explains the dermatologist. “They stimulate collagen and glycosaminoglycans, resulting in newer and healthier skin. Enzymatic exfoliants help break down the keratin in the skin’s upper layers, thus giving fresher and smoother skin.”

The doctor also cautions that enzymatic scrubs don’t work much on the deeper layers of the skin as an acid exfoliant would.

According to Dr Rana, it’s best to exfoliate 2–3 times a week. “People generally over-exfoliate their skin, which makes it dry, sensitive and inflamed,” he points out. “If this happens, stop exfoliating immediately and give it a week or two before you start again.”

PRECAUTIONS

While micro-exfoliation is the gentlest form of exfoliation even with regular or daily use, it is recommended that exfoliation be avoided if the skin has a flare up whether from acne or a chronic inflammatory skin condition such as psoriasis, dermatitis or eczema. Dr Rana adds, “For optimum results for sensitive skin, alternate a microfoliant with an AHA/BHA chemical exfoliant at least 3 times per week if you have sun damage or dead skin build-up. Those with ultra-sensitive skin could use a microfoliant using gentle circular motions and alternate with acid-free products as the choice of exfoliant.”

“Micro-exfoliation is the mildest form of exfoliating. It’s more active than deep cleansing yet less intense than acidic chemical or more abrasive physical scrub exfoliation,”

— DR AJAY RANA, dermatologist and aesthetic physician