Recently I’ve noticed that I’ve been getting lesser clogged pores (although I still get pimples here and there) and smoother skin.
My skincare regime has not changed much just that I started regular exfoliating. Not that I didn’t exfoliate in the past, but just that I’m doing it more often that before.
I used to think that I only need to exfoliate once a week, or twice a week maximum. But there wasn’t any huge difference to my skin.
But when I step up my exfoliation to three/four times a week, I began to feel an improvement in terms of the texture of my skin. Of course, not all exfoliant allows me to use it so often.
What’s exfoliation
Basically it is the process of removing dead skin cells off our skin. Our skin generally regenerates new skin cells every week and if the dead skin cells aren’t remove, they will build up and clog the skin. That’s also when you find yourself looking dull and skin texture rough.
Types of exfoliation
There are two types of exfoliation methods; one is the physical exfoliation (that works like sand paper with beads in it or by utilizing a tool such as sponge), another is the chemical exfoliation (that make use of ingredients such as AHAs and BHAs to loosen up dead skin cells on the surface). You just have to find out what works best for you.
I typically prefer to use gentle chemical exfoliation method on a more frequent basis (3 to 4 times) and the physical exfoliation method on a weekly basis. Exfoliants that contain beads are generally harsher to the skin and should not be used more than twice a week. Over exfoliation can cause skin to be more dry and weaken the skin barrier, resulting in a more sensitive skin.
These are the types of exfoliants that are in my bath room. The CURE Nature Aqua Gel, Bio-Essence Deep Exfoliating Gel, DHC Acne Toner (contains BHA) are the chemical exfoliants while the Kuu Konjac Sponge, Sonic Cleanse and Biore Scrub are the physical exfoliant.
I typically only reach out for three exfoliants now: DHC Acne Toner, Cure Nature Aqua Gel and Kuu Konjac Sponge.
I have rather sensitive skin so I prefer the gentle and non-invasive ways of exfoliating. The Cure Nature Aqua Gel contains so little ingredients that is really good for sensitive skin. Click here to read more about it. I use it whenever I want to apply my face mask afterwards.
I also use DHC Acne toner that contains Salicyclic Acid (a type of BHA) everyday. This type of exfoliation method is good for people with Acne concern.
If you prefer physical exfoliant, I suggest trying out Kuu Konjac Sponge. As opposed to using Sonic Cleanse/Clarisonic, Kuu Konjac Sponge is much gentler on the skin and does not cause sensitivity on my skin. Frankly, I use this almost daily except for the days when I alternate this with my CURE Aqua Gel.
I noticed that these methods made my skin a lot smoother these days. And it isn’t harsh on my skin as well. Most of my jawline acne cleared up as well. (It’s really irritating to have them keep coming back to me.) I really recommend people with combination or oily skin to do frequent exfoliation. However, of you are facing serious acne problems, I do not recommend rigorous exfoliation. Stick to the gentle method and do it twice weekly so as not to aggravate your acne issues.
For people with dry skin issue, I will recommend exfoliation done once a week with your preferred method.
Which exfoliants should you choose? How often should you exfoliate?
In a nut shell, different skin types require different types of exfoliants.
Sensitive Skin - Any type of Chemical Exfoliants works, but choose one that is without fragrance or preservatives such as CURE Nature Aqua Gel. Do it once or twice a week.
Acne Skin - Choose Exfoliants with BHA or exfoliants that target acne issues such as Kuu Konjac Sponge with added bamboo Charcoal. This sponge contains activated carbon and minerals that act as natural anti-oxidants to fight acne causing bacteria. Do it twice or thrice a week. It is extremely gentle so there’s no harm in doing it more often. DHC Acne toner can be used daily though. If you find it drying, use it only at night and use a hydrating toner in the day.
This sponge is made from 100% food grade Konjac powder with pure water, the sponges are very soft and contain no chemicals & preservatives, nor any colorings or additives. It helps to stimulate blood flow and encourage new skin cells growth without damaging the delicate skin.
Dry Skin - Choose either a physical or chemical exfoliant to do thorough cleansing once a week. Depends on what you like.
Combination skin (prone to clogged pores) - Choose a chemical exfoliant and do it three times a week. Really, you gotta try!
Normal Skin - Choose any one you like and do it once or twice a week.
Ecezema Skin – If everything you’ve tried fails you, then try out Kuu Konjac Sponge because it is natural!
Generally, I still believe that exfoliation should be done once or twice a week so as not to weaken the skin barrier. But if you’re like me, dealing with occasional outbreaks and prone to clogged pores, you may want to try more frequent exfoliation using a gentler method. Personally, I’ve seen improvements from doing so!
I hope this post is helpful to you girls!
Happy Exfoliating!
*This post is inspired by Kuu Konjac Sponge which was sent to me for review purpose.
KUU Konjac is exclusively available in BHG stores and www.beautycarousel.com ($11.90)
You can also get CURE Nature Aqua Gel & DHC Acne Toner from Watsons
