Social media can make the ordinary seem extraordinary. Take exfoliation, for instance, the process of removing dead cells from the skin’s surface. If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok recently, you might think this time-honored skincare practice can rejuvenate your aging epidermis.
However, that might be setting the bar a bit too high.
Exfoliation isn’t going to fix anyone’s wrinkles. While exfoliation does have its benefits, it can also irritate and inflame the skin if done improperly or with unsuitable tools or chemicals.
How is exfoliation done?
Exfoliation can be achieved through two main methods: mechanical and chemical. Each method has its own advantages.
Mechanical (or physical) exfoliation uses tools like brushes, sponges, or scrubs containing abrasive particles to physically remove dead skin cells. Physical exfoliation can improve skin luster by shedding a dead layer of skin that can make it look dull. It can also help unclog pores, reducing some types of acne.
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