As licensed skin care professionals, we all understand chemical peels exfoliate by dislodging the intercellular glue that holds cells together. It dissolves desmosomes that bond keratinocytes together. Salicylic, our hero beta hydroxy acid, is lipophilic, so it dissolves and purges sebaceous filament inside the follicles. Alpha hydroxy acids are hydrophilic. They work hygroscopically, meaning they ... Read More

In a remarkable process of self-renewal, the epidermis goes through the process of keratinization, in which cells rise to the surface and are sloughed away over the course of four to six weeks. As we age, however, cell turnover declines, influencing a variety of physiological changes, which can affect the tone and texture of the ... Read More

There are two categories of exfoliants: physical and chemical. Chemical exfoliators are acids applied to the skin to assist in the shedding of dead skin cells. In this article, we will focus on physical exfoliation methods designed for that purpose. Physical exfoliation ingredients and devices are not new. In fact, ingredients such as sugar, salt, ... Read More

Exfoliation is a vital part of every skin care regimen with numerous benefits. Granular exfoliation (scrubs) provides a tremendous difference in the health and beauty of the skin. Today’s aesthetic market offers an abundance of facial scrubs making refining and retexturizing to reveal younger-looking skin effortless. Clients may already have a preferred regimen, including a cleanser, serums, eye cream, masks, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Visible improvement can be attained by adding a facial scrub to the homecare routine. Additionally, scrubs are a great homecare treatment between professional procedures that keep the skin vibrant, radiant, and baby soft. Professionals can add value to services by educating clients on various types of scrubs, how to use them, what to expect from them, and what solutions they provide. Read More

For exfoliation straight from the kitchen cupboard, some clients may turn to making their own DIY scrubs. Here are four quick recipes that clients can make in the comfort of their home – quickly and with no fuss.   THE BASICS   A basic scrub consists of an exfoliant, carrier oil, and aroma. The exfoliant ... Read More

It is that time of year again – when people crave those sun rays and show off their skin. Exfoliation is an important step in any skin care routine to help clients achieve that smooth, healthy summer glow.   Before getting into the mechanics and details of physical exfoliation, it is important to review the ... Read More

Dry brushing, a method of cleaning and exfoliating the skin, has been around for thousands of years, but has recently become popular again. Key benefits of dry brushing include increased energy, smoother skin, and an overall better feeling. One of the best benefits of dry brushing is the cost; body treatment machines, whether for the spa or at home, can cost upwards of $23,000.  Read More

What does the term “peel” actually mean? Find out which exfoliation treatments can be considered peels and learn the pros and cons of using medical versus alpha hydroxy acid peels, alkaline treatments, scrubs, and more! The word “peel” has been a primary catch phrase in the skin care industry for over 50 years. The suggestion ... Read More

While exfoliation may seem like a fluff step in professional and homecare routines, it is actually critical for optimal skin health and a glowing, refreshed complexion. There is nothing quite like the look and feel of skin that has been recently exfoliated. Although exfoliation is suitable for all skin types, choosing which exfoliation method will work best for each client can be challenging. Read More

• Physical or mechanical exfoliation breaks up the keratinized protein that accumulates on the skin's surface, lifting and whisking away dry, dull cell debris to reveal softer skin.• Chemical exfoliation uses topical ingredients to dissolve cell debris for a glowing finish. Read More