What is an Exfoliating Cleanser and Why Do You Need One?
An exfoliating cleanser is a type of facial cleanser that contains exfoliating ingredients like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) to help remove dead skin cells and impurities from the surface of the skin.
Unlike physical exfoliators like scrubs, which can be harsh on the skin and cause micro-tears, exfoliating cleansers work by gently dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together.
This allows the dead skin cells to be easily washed away, revealing brighter, smoother, and more even-toned skin.
Our Brightening Glycolic and Antioxidant Cleanser includes all of the ingredients you'd want in an Exfoliating Cleanser.
Benefits of Using an Exfoliating Cleanser
There are 5 top benefits to using a gentle exfoliating cleanser with glycolic acid:
ONE: Improves the texture of your skin. An exfoliating cleanser that contains glycolic acid can soften the skin and gradually smooth away roughness.
TWO: Reduce acne breakouts. It helps remove dead skin cells and excess oil, which can lead to acne.
THREE: It's safe for everyone. A cleanser with glycolic acid can work well for all skin types, even the most sensitive ones. This is because the ingredients are kept at a comfortable percentage, making it gentle enough to use every day.
FOUR: It promotes brighter skin. In time, using a gentle exfoliating cleanser helps reveal and expose fresher layers of skin, gradually lifting away discoloration and spots.
FIVE: A cleanser with glycolic acid can also help with reducing wrinkles and fine lines. As with discoloration, wrinkles can be softened and minimized over time, since fresher layers can be exposed during the exfoliating process.
How Does an Exfoliating Cleanser Work?
As mentioned earlier, exfoliating cleansers typically contain AHAs or BHAs. AHAs are water-soluble acids that work by breaking down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, while BHAs are oil-soluble acids that can penetrate deep into the pores to help unclog them. Some exfoliating cleansers may also contain physical exfoliants like jojoba beads or rice powder to provide additional exfoliation.
When you use an exfoliating cleanser, you apply it to damp skin and massage it in gently for about 30 seconds. Then, you rinse it off with warm water and follow up with your regular skin care routine. It's important to note that exfoliating cleansers should only be used 1-2 times per week, as over-exfoliating can lead to irritation and sensitivity.
Ingredients to Look for in an Exfoliating Cleanser
When looking for an exfoliating cleanser, there are a few key ingredients to look out for. Here are some of the most effective ones:
- AHAs: Look for ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, or mandelic acid. These are water-soluble acids that can help dissolve dead skin cells and brighten the complexion.
- BHAs: Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or betaine salicylate. These are oil-soluble acids that can penetrate deep into the pores to help unclog them and prevent breakouts.
- Enzymes: Look for ingredients like papaya or pineapple enzymes. These are natural exfoliants that can help dissolve dead skin cells without causing irritation.
- Physical Exfoliants: If you prefer a physical exfoliant, look for gentle options like jojoba beads or rice powder.
How to Use an Exfoliating Cleanser in Your Skin Care Routine
Using an exfoliating cleanser is easy, but it's important to use it correctly to avoid over-exfoliating. Here's how to incorporate one into your skin care routine:
Start by cleansing your skin with a gentle, non-exfoliating cleanser to remove any makeup, dirt, or oil.
Once or twice a week, replace your regular cleanser with an exfoliating cleanser.
Apply it to damp skin and massage it in gently for about 30 seconds.
Rinse the exfoliating cleanser off with warm water and follow up with your regular skin care routine. Be sure to use a moisturizer and sunscreen to protect your skin.
Our Brightening Glycolic and Antioxidant Cleanser includes all of the ingredients you'd want in an Exfoliating Cleanser.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using an Exfoliating Cleanser
While exfoliating cleansers can be a great addition to your skin care routine, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Using it too often: As mentioned earlier, exfoliating cleansers should only be used 1-2 times per week to avoid over-exfoliating.
- Using it on irritated or broken skin: If you have any cuts, scrapes, or irritated areas on your skin, avoid using an exfoliating cleanser until they have healed.
- Not following up with moisturizer and sunscreen: Exfoliating can leave your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it's important to follow up with a moisturizer and sunscreen to protect your skin.
Our Brightening Glycolic and Antioxidant Cleanser includes all of the ingredients you'd want in an Exfoliating Cleanser.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an exfoliating cleanser is a great way to keep your skin looking its best. Whether you choose a gel, cream, foam, or powder cleanser, be sure to look for effective exfoliating ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, enzymes, or physical exfoliants. And remember to use it only 1-2 times per week and follow up with moisturizer and sunscreen to protect your skin. By incorporating an exfoliating cleanser into your skin care routine, you can enjoy all the benefits of exfoliation without the harshness of physical scrubs.