Discover the Best Exfoliant for Your Skin

Did you know that in the world of exfoliants, some are more suitable than others depending on your skin type? Based on your skin’s needs and characteristics, today we’ll help you figure out which exfoliant you should look for in order to get the most benefits—without irritating your skin.

But first, let’s remember what the purpose of a facial exfoliant is. Even though our skin naturally renews itself approximately every 28–30 days… this renewal process slows down over time, and starting around age 25–30, it’s important to give our skin a little boost. Regular exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and stimulate cell turnover, resulting in smoother, more even, and more radiant skin—while also helping to prevent signs of premature aging.

This can be achieved through exfoliating acids (also known as chemical exfoliants) or physical/mechanical exfoliants—although, friend, to be honest, we’re not big fans of the latter.

Physical exfoliants are called that because they contain some type of granule that literally “scrapes” the outermost layer of the skin, making them significantly more irritating and only tolerable for resilient skin types. Plus, since they require rubbing the skin, they’re absolutely not recommended for sensitive skin, rosacea, or acne-prone skin.

That’s why we’ll focus on the different exfoliating acids available on the market—they’re gentler on the skin and much easier to use, since they generally don’t require rinsing with water.

Exfoliating acids, or hydroxy acids, are molecules that speed up the skin’s natural cell renewal cycle and help remove dead skin cells from the surface, leading to a more even and glowing complexion.

Which exfoliating acid is right for you?

Hydroxy acids can be divided into two main groups: alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs). Additionally, we have salicylic acid, which falls outside of those two categories.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Known for their ability to even out skin tone, fade dark spots, and improve the appearance of wrinkles, AHAs provide a radiant glow and are also hydrating—making them a great well-aging ingredient for dry skin. They’re also perfect for sun-damaged skin or skin with fine lines and wrinkles.

Common AHAs include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid.

Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs)

These next-generation exfoliants are ideal for sensitive skin because they’re very well tolerated. They also stimulate cell renewal, but in a gentler way. The most well-known PHA is gluconolactone.

Salicylic Acid

Hands down the best exfoliant for combination to oily or acne-prone skin. It’s the only lipophilic (oil-soluble) one, so it penetrates clogged pores more easily to help clear them out, prevent breakouts and blackheads, and improve their appearance. It’s also antibacterial and helps regulate oil production.

By now, you’re probably thinking “I want to use them all!”—but of course, you’re not going to use three different products… That’s why at Two Poles, we’re here to make things easy and keep routines simple. So, we’ve already taken care of creating the perfect product with all three:

The Porefect Exfoliant contains 4% Gluconolactone, 2% Mandelic Acid, and 2% Salicylic Acid—making it the perfect exfoliant for all skin types!

It won’t leave your skin feeling tight or dry like other exfoliating lotions, and even the most sensitive skin types can use it. If your skin is more resilient, you can apply it (no rinse needed) once a day. If it’s more sensitive, we recommend using it 3–4 times per week, depending on your skin’s tolerance.

In any case, if you still have questions, you already know—we’re just a message away and happy to help!

Big hug! See you over at @twopolescosmetics & @partners.incream

Anna

xx