What is exfoliation and why bother?

Let’s cut to the chase. Would you rather run your fingers over a smooth silk pillow or across a burlap sack?

Exfoliate!

Exfoliation involves the removal of dead skin cells from the skin’s outer layers and is performed to promote healthy skin and to prevent breakouts. New skin cells are formed in the deeper layers, pushing the dead cells to the surface. If these dead cells are not removed, they can build up causing a dull appearance and rough texture. (Remember the burlap?) Adding exfoliation to your routine will not only brighten your face but will also improve tone and texture allowing products and makeup to go on “as smooth as silk”.

What are the different types of exfoliators?

It can be fun to find an exfoliation process that you enjoy and that works for you and your skin type. Some can be done at home and some require specialized equipment like the HydraFacial©️.

Physical exfoliation often involves the use of a granular scrub that abrades or buffs the skin’s surface removing dead cells. Common granules include salt, sugar, magnesium crystals, grains, jojoba beads and even ground nuts. For daily use, the ZO®️ Exfoliating Cleanser with jojoba beads is gentle and effective. A more aggressive product that is great for a weekly buff is the ZO®️ Exfoliating Polish with its abrasive magnesium crystals.

Chemical exfoliators usually involve gentle acids and enzymes that dissolve the protein bonds that exist between dead skin cells allowing for cell removal.

Mechanical exfoliation employs a product or tool that rubs, scrubs or vacuums. This includes brushes, loofahs, abrasive tips and others.

Can I use more than one of the different exfoliating techniques?

Combining various options can be fun and can lead to healthy, vibrant looking skin as long as you are careful not to over-exfoliate. Treat yourself to a monthly facial with the patented HydraFacial©️ machine! It provides a gentle chemical exfoliation (with glycolic acid and salicylic acid) and physical exfoliation with its specifically designed HydraFacial tip and fluid enhanced suction. Your skin will glow!  In between facials, enjoy your home skincare regime.

If you are not already exfoliating, try adding it to your skin care regime and say good-bye to rough uneven skin and hello to smooth silky skin you will love!

Dr. Tara Wegryn is a board-certified Neurologist and Electrophysiologist whose current area of concentration is Aesthetic Medicine. She has extensive training in the latest aesthetic medical techniques and is a member of the International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine. Dr. Tara Wegryn is the sole owner and operator of Refresh Medispa, the only dedicated medical spa in Galveston, TX. Refresh Medispa offers a variety of services and products including Botox, Fillers, Microneedling, PRP hair restoration, Kybella, skin resurfacing, hydrafacials, ZO Skin Health, and Colorescience.

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