Exfoliants are widely used to treat acne due to their ability to remove dead epithelium cells. Exfoliant is a special product that cleanses skin from plugs, keratinized cells and dirt. Regular peels are advisable in all cases of acne as they make complexion smoother and softer, improve complexion and reduce breakouts.
Dead cells build-up causes acne!
Acne occurs when natural exfoliation processes go wrong. Susceptible to acne skin produces more dead cells than necessary and they don’t slough away. This phenomenon is called retention hyperkeratosis. It makes regular exfoliation essential.
Normal skin renews constantly. Dead cells are being replaced with younger ones. Susceptible to acne skin fails to perform its exfoliating function properly. Dead cells accumulate in the follicle, mix with sebum and dirt and create a clog which turns into a comedone or even an inflamed acne in the course of time.
Therefore, peels are vital for acne-prone skin. They will boost renewal process and reduce breakouts. Regular peels promote clean, free from clogs skin and prevent acne and other blemishes from forming.
Physical exfoliants
A big variety of exfoliants are offered on the market today. They come in two forms: physical and chemical.
Physical exfoliantors utilize abrasive ingredients to remove flat cells. They range from nonprescription scrubs to professional procedures like microdermabrasion.
Physical exfoliants are excellent skin care means as they make your complexion silky smooth. Still, they are not the best choice for skin affected by acne. Physical peels rub your skin, which leads to irritation, redness and more breakouts. Avoid them if you have acne, especially, inflamed.
Among the most common physical exfoliants are: scrubs, abrasive pads and cloths and microdermabrasion.
Chemical exfoliants
Many peels make use of chemical exfoliants. They digest dead cells with the help of acids or enzymes. Chemical peels don’t contain abrasive ingredients being the best exfoliators for acne treatment. Peeling acids and enzymes are often included into lotions, gels, masks, toners, and other products.
You may find light chemical peels at your local store and buy them without prescription. Such gentle peelings can be applied daily. Stronger chemical exfoliants can be found at day spas.
Both prescription and over the counter chemical peelings may dry your skin. Thus, use oil-free moisturizer to prevent dryness, flaking, and irritation.
Among the most common chemical exfoliants for acne are the following:
• Alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs (glycolic, lactic, and tartaric acid);
• Beta hydroxy acids or BHAs (salicylic acid);
• Retinoids such as Retin A (tretinoin), Differin (adapalene) and Tazorac (tazarotene);
• Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), carbolic or phenol
Consult your dermatologist before deciding on treatment. He’ll recommend the most appropriate peels and exfoliants for your particular case of acne.
