Exfoliation effectively removes dead cells from skin’s surface, not only eliminating impurities and unclogging pores, but also revealing fresher, smoother, and brighter skin underneath. By stimulating cellular turnover, collagen production, and blood circulation, exfoliation promotes a more youthful complexion and improves overall skin texture and tone. Exfoliation also enhances the absorption and effectiveness of topical skin care products. 

Expanding beyond traditional chemical peels opens doors to a realm of skin care solutions that offer comparable, if not superior, results. Chemical peels have long been a staple, famous for their ability to address various skin concerns effectively. It is important to acknowledge the potential downsides of chemical peels, including burning, irritation, scabbing, redness, and swelling. Recognizing these limitations, skin care professionals can now offer solutions that cater to diverse skin needs, providing safe and effective alternatives to traditional chemical peels. 

MECHANICAL EXFOLIATION 

Mechanical exfoliation presents numerous benefits when dead skin cells are physically removed using abrasive particles or tools, such as cloths, brushes, sponges, or scrubs containing granular substances. There are a variety of scrubs available on the market, including coffee, fruit, sugar, or salt scrubs. Usually, the smaller the granule size in the scrub, the less harsh it will be to skin. Skin care products also often contain ingredients designed for mechanical exfoliation, such as beads, fibers, or seed powders.  

Shawna Rocha is the owner of Awaken Day Spa in California and Washington. She has a love for helping clients with compromised and sensitive skin and constantly strives to gain additional knowledge and education. Since becoming an aesthetician, she has completed multiple advanced courses in oncology aesthetics, immuno-aesthetics, and has specialized training in sensitive skin and holistic therapies. Rocha holds several certifications, including a NCEA certification, and has become the director of education for Hale & Hush. She is also a DERMASCOPE Ambassador and ACA award winner for Favorite Brand Educator. Her current passion is writing blogs and articles regarding the skin care industry.