Exfoliators: Everything You Need To Know

There is nothing quite like freshly exfoliated, deliciously soft skin. There is a reason Salons and Skincare Professionals give your skin a good scrub before they proceed with their treatments and applying skin care products.

Exfoliation is an essential part of any skincare routine whether during winter or summer.

Skin can become dry and rough in winter which is why, provided your skin isn't open or sore, exfoliation can not only remove dead skin cells but it also primes skin for following products. Exfoliating also helps with shaving, razor burn and ingrown hairs. It smooths skin and unclogs your pores and, most importantly, improves moisture retention in your skin. Here's everything you need to know about exfoliators.

Different Types of Exfoliators: Everything You Need To Know

There are loads of different types of exfoliators but we like to break it down into two categories.

There are Chemical Exfoliators and Physical Exfoliators.

Chemical Exfoliators:

Chemical Exfoliators are products that chemically exfoliate the skin. A good example of this would be Cleansing Wash with Salicylic, Glycolic or Lactic Acid. Or a product with Fruit Enzymes like those with Papaya, Pineapple or Pumpkin Enzyme.

Physical Exfoliators:

These are items like Sugar Scrubs, Salt Scrubs, Scrubs with Pumice, Kernels or a polishing compound.

1. Exfoliation

First and foremost, exfoliators will aid your skin by, removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin looking brighter and feeling smoother. This is particularly important during the winter months when dry, flaky skin can be an issue. Heading into summer, it can help us shed all the winter skin we've been hiding for the cold months.

2. Moisturizing

Our sugar and salt scrubs contain moisturizing ingredients like Grapeseed Oil or Shea Butter, which can help your skin stay hydrated and prevent dryness. This is especially important if you live in a dry climate (Hello Gauteng!) or if you frequently use products that can be drying, like retinoids or acne treatments.

3. Improved Circulation

The rubbing motion used to apply, for instance, our delicious Grapefruit and Pomegranate Sugar Scrub, can also help improve circulation in your skin, which can help reduce puffiness and inflammation. Additionally, products like our Coffee Scrub, have added caffeine which can further stimulate circulation.

4. Smoother Shave

Using a physical exfoliator before you shave can help create a smoother, closer shave. By exfoliating away dead skin cells and moisturizing your skin, you'll be less likely to experience razor burn and irritation. I do this whenever I have an everything shower and it is life changing! Smoother skin, less red, irritated skin and a better surface to absorb a delicious Body Butter or Tissue Oil (which, by the way, we also manufacture! 😉)

5. Improved Product Absorption

Finally, using an exfoliator before applying other skincare products can help those products absorb more evenly and effectively. By removing dead skin cells and moisturizing your skin, you'll create a better canvas for other products to work on. Some of our scrubs contain special ingredients like Squalene, Niacinamide, Collagen and Vitamin C so this is the perfect start and way to prime your skin for all the good juices you're applying afterwards.

Salon Supplies Wholesale

If you are looking for products to use within your salon, we will be able to supply you. If you want to create your own brand, we can help you with that too!