Physical Exfoliators vs Chemical Exfoliators

Physical Exfoliators vs Chemical Exfoliators

Exfoliation has been practiced more in the recent years, with its importance being more known to us all. It can help treat a number of skin issues like acne, dullness and many more - Why? Well dead cells, debris, and grime collect over time and can clog your pores. There’s where exfoliation comes in to help get rid of all these impurities and clear your pores. But there has been a huge debate recently, which type of exfoliator is for me and which one is better? 


Generally there are two types of exfoliators - Physical exfoliators and chemical exfoliators. Both physical and chemical exfoliators have the same purpose of removing dead skin cells from the outer part of our skin. Our skin renews itself after every 28 to 30 days and this process doesn’t always happen smoothly, leading to clogged pores and flaky skin. Exfoliating helps clear the skin from dead skin cells and also helps stimulate skin cell renewal.


But what makes both types of them different?


Physical Exfoliation

This type of exfoliation involves any type of physical abrasion onto the skin. This could be in the form of small beads and grains, cloth or tools that scrub dead skin cells of the skin’s most outermost layer. Physical exfoliators are great because they give an instant effect to the skin - After a few scrubs, you can immediately see your skin looking brighter and less dull. Your skin would also instantly look more glowy as the physical abrasion and massaging action on your skin would stimulate blood circulation, making your skin look more awake and bright!


However, physical exfoliators might be too rough on the skin for some. People with more sensitive skin have a higher chance to experience irritation or infection when opting for physical exfoliators. Asides this, physical exfoliators that come in the form of tools like konjac sponges and brushes, need to be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria on it. If not cleaned regularly, the chances of getting a skin infection would be much higher.


Chemical Exfoliation

When people hear the word chemical, they get scared instantly. However, chemical exfoliators aren’t that scary and actually just use low-percentages of acids that are super gentle to skin. These acids help remove dead skin cells off the face and stimulate new skin renewal which leads to more smooth and brighter skin. Chemical exfoliators can usually be done by everyone (unless you are sensitive to certain chemical compounds), and is especially a great choice for those with sensitive skin as there is no rough or harsh scrubbing involved. Chemical exfoliators are also more flexible when compared to physical exfoliators and hence they can come in different forms like cleansers, toners and even serums like our very own product here at Joi, the Enzyme Instant Glow Serum


Made up of natural enzymes from pineapple and pomegranate, the serum gently exfoliates and soothes your skin at the same time. It helps disintegrate excess surface cells for efficient exfoliation to reveal smooth and glowing skin. Asides from just smoothing your complexion, this serum can also help stimulate collagen production, reduce wrinkles and brighten the skin - giving you that glowy glass skin look!


Basically, both types of exfoliators are beneficial to the skin, but chemical exfoliators can be more friendly for people with sensitive skin. So have you thought about which type of exfoliator is for you? Comment your pick in the comments down below!

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