Exfoliators

Exfoliants are the champions of cell renewal: they clear the skin from dead cells, activate micro circulation and stimulate the synthesis of collagen and elastin. As a result, your skin is brighter, smoother, and more uniform: applying products on clean skin, free from dead cells and impurities, maximises their properties so that they act at a deeper level. Actually, the skin spontaneously removes dead cells, as part of a completely natural process. However, some additional exfoliation performed regularly, one/twice a week, perfects this natural renewal process, especially in the presence of dryness or acne, or in the case of mature skin. There are two macro-categories of exfoliants: mechanical scrubs and chemical scrubs, which work in different ways. Mechanical scrubs contain special granules that, when massaged into the skin, perform a slightly abrasive, carefully calibrated action. They include a solid grainy part, consisting of ground fruit seeds, natural sugars or hi-tech components, and a fluid and creamy part made of hydrating active ingredients. The blend of microgranules and nourishing ingredients is the ideal combination for smoothing and softening the skin. Mechanical scrubs have no side effects, but should nonetheless be used with caution on easily reactive skin, for which non-aggressive formulas with deeper hydrating properties is recommended. As for chemical scrubs, the best-performing ones are those based on alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), such as glycolic, mandelic and kojic acids, derived from plant sugars and fruit acids. Unlike mechanical scrubs, their exfoliating power is due to the properties of the acids themselves, which “break” the bonds between live and dead cells, thus favouring cell renewal in an extremely delicate manner, and without the risk of causing irritation, redness and dryness. This is why chemical scrubs are suitable to all types of skin, although a simple, precautionary tolerance test on a small area of the face is recommended for the most sensitive complexions.