Removing dead skin cells has become an essential step in the basic skincare routine for beauty enthusiasts. However, for those with acne-prone and inflamed follicles, the use of exfoliants requires extra caution. So, what is the safe choice for acne-prone skin? The answer will be revealed in the following article.


The Adverse Effects of Physical Exfoliation on Acne-Prone Skin


Clogged pores are one of the common culprits behind the formation of acne. Using only a facial cleanser might not be sufficient; adding an additional step to remove dead skin cells helps eliminate excess oil, dirt, and makeup residue trapped deep within the pores.

Many people turn to physical exfoliants like sea salt, scrubbing beads, or peeling gels to instantly shed away dead skin cells. However, this method is entirely unsuitable for acne-prone skin and carries significant risks:

Firstly

The abrasive texture of these particles can cause skin abrasions during friction. This can lead to damaging existing acne lesions and potentially spreading them to other areas of the skin.

Secondly

The particle sizes are often relatively larger than the size of the pores, so they only work on the surface of the skin. This means they can effectively clean only about 10-20% of the dead skin cells, dirt, and makeup residue that accumulate within the pores.

Thirdly

These products can trigger redness and irritation, especially on thin and sensitive skin.

Therefore, it's crucial to choose a gentle exfoliation method that is suitable for acne-prone skin to avoid exacerbating existing issues and causing further irritation.

What is the effective and safer alternative solution?

In light of the negative effects of physical exfoliation on acne-prone skin, experts in the field recommend replacing it with chemical exfoliants containing AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) ingredients, often referred to as "gold-standard" compounds for deep cleansing and skin rejuvenation.

 

Why should you choose chemical exfoliation?


1. AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid):

AHAs like glycolic acid and lactic acid are water-soluble and work to exfoliate the skin's surface. They are effective at removing dead skin cells, improving skin texture, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and uneven pigmentation. AHAs can also help with skin hydration.

2. BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid):

Salicylic acid is a common BHA and is oil-soluble. This property allows it to penetrate into the pores, where it can break down the oil and debris that contribute to acne formation. Salicylic acid is particularly beneficial for acne-prone skin as it helps prevent clogged pores and reduce inflammation.

Benefit:

Using products containing these chemical exfoliants can provide the following benefits:

  • Gentle Exfoliation
Chemical exfoliants work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, leading to a more gentle and controlled exfoliation process compared to physical scrubs.

  • Improved Skin Texture
Regular use of AHAs and BHAs can help refine skin texture, making it smoother and more even-toned.

 

  • Unclogged Pores
BHAs can effectively penetrate and clean out pores, reducing the risk of breakouts and blackheads.

  • Stimulated Skin Renewal
These chemical exfoliants stimulate collagen production and can aid in skin renewal and a healthier complexion.

Note

When incorporating chemical exfoliants into your skincare routine, it's essential to:

  • Patch-Test: Test new products on a small area of your skin to ensure you don't have an adverse reaction.
  • Start Slowly: Introduce these products gradually to allow your skin to adapt.
  • Use Sunscreen: AHAs and BHAs can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, so wearing sunscreen during the day is crucial.

Consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional can provide personalized advice on selecting the right chemical exfoliants and skincare products for your specific skin needs and concerns.

How to choose the right chemical exfoliator?


For Skin exfoliation, it's generally recommended to use a BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) product with a concentration ranging from 1% to 2%. Here's why:

Skin Thickness: The skin on the body is generally thicker than facial skin, making it less sensitive to exfoliating acids. Therefore, a slightly higher concentration of BHA is often used to effectively address concerns like clogged pores, folliculitis, or body acne.

Pore Size: Pores on the body can be larger and more prone to congestion, which may require a stronger exfoliant to effectively unclog them.

Tolerance: While the body can usually tolerate higher concentrations of exfoliating acids, it's essential to consider individual skin sensitivity. Some people may still find even a 1% BHA too strong for their body skin and may need to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase it.

Desired Results: The choice of BHA concentration also depends on the desired results. A higher percentage may be more effective in addressing specific concerns like stubborn clogged pores, while a lower percentage can be used for regular maintenance and gentle exfoliation.

In summary, a BHA concentration of 1% to 2% is commonly recommended for body exfoliation due to the thicker and less sensitive nature of body skin, as well as the need for effective pore unclogging and skin smoothing. However, individual tolerance and specific skincare goals should also be taken into account when selecting the appropriate percentage.

Conclusion


Physical exfoliation carries risks for acne-prone skin. The recommended alternative is chemical exfoliation with AHAs and BHAs. For the face, 1% to 2% BHA is suitable, and slightly higher concentrations are suggested for body exfoliation. 

Choosing the right method and product helps maintain healthy skin, especially for acne-prone individuals, while minimizing the risk of irritation or damage.