The ID Skin Guide to Physical Exfoliation

Most people walk around with upwards of 30 extra layers of dead skin cells on their faces. This can lead to a cacophony of catastrophic complexion complaints from your clients, such as congestion and breakouts, rough texture, an ashy skin tone, and just “dull” looking skin. That barrier of the epidermis is not only blocking things like sweat, sebum, and other waste products from getting out of your skin, but it’s also hindering all the good ingredients packed into your lotions and potions from getting in. That is why exfoliation is a critical part of your service offerings and should also be in the line-up of professional products that you offer to your clients at your spa. It is crucial to offer them both in your services and for sale to ensure a radical positive change in your client’s skin! Here’s how to get glowing…

What is Physical Exfoliation?

The word exfoliate literally means to “strip off leaves.” It is the act of removing extra layers of dead skin using a manual method. Anything from botanical-based beads, nut shells, sand, aluminum crystals, an ultrasonic skin scrubber, diamonds, or even a washcloth (the rougher, the better) can be used to help decorticate the epidermis.

Who Can Benefit from Physical Exfoliation?

Anyone with intact barrier functionality of their skin (and hopefully everyone) can exfoliate their face. As a skin expert, it will be up to you to determine the level of aggressiveness of the physical exfoliation that is right for each of your client’s skin type and condition. Please, consider the following before deciding on an exfoliation strategy for your clients:

• What is the level of oil being produced by the skin? Often, oilier skin can handle a little heavier exfoliation.
• What is the level of hydration of the skin? Dry skin can already be flaking, so it’s best to err on the side of caution with drier skin conditions.
• What is the sensitivity level of the skin? In a study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, Fitzpatrick types 1-3 reported more skin sensitivity during exfoliation than types 4-6. And when they perceived their skin as sensitive, they usually had higher objectively measured sensitivity as well. So, the take-home lesson is to ask your clients about their skin sensitivity before choosing an exfoliation method.
• What is their history of exfoliation? Is their skin used to being exfoliated, or are they a newbie to the process? This is also the time to ask if they are using any kind of chemical or enzymatic exfoliant that can make them more sensitive to physical exfoliation.
• The use of Vitamin A derivatives such as Retin-A® or retinol-containing products can increase sensitivity and may have to be discontinued for up to a week before physically exfoliating. And anyone being treated by a physician, especially if they are on a topical or oral medication that affects the skin (like tetracycline or Accutane®), are probably not candidates at all. This is your time to ask a lot of questions before deciding the best course of action.
• What is the objective of the exfoliation? Is it merely to freshen up the skin? Or is it part of your hyperpigmentation eradication process? The strength and frequency of the exfoliation will be determined based on what you are trying to achieve.
• And, of course, use your eyes to determine if your client has intact barrier functionality. Is the skin free of burn (whether from the sun or chemicals)? Free of sores, bleeding blemishes, rashes, and abrasions? If the skin is intact and healthy, then exfoliate away!

How Often Should Someone Physically Exfoliate Their Skin?

For most of your clients that are candidates for physical exfoliation, 2-3 times per week is the sweet spot. But with that being said, anywhere from 1-5 may be appropriate. Again, this is where your expertise and objectives come into play. It’s best to have your clients “ramp up,” slowly increasing the frequency over time to determine the level that is best for their skin. And remember, the skin is an organ that is constantly shifting and regenerating. What is best in the hot, humid months of summer may not work for the drier, cooler months of winter. Exfoliation will need adjusting just like the other components of a skin care regimen.

ID Skin’s Exfoliation Offerings

With so many different factors coming into play, it’s important to have exfoliation options in your arsenal of offerings so that there is a product for everyone. ID Skin’s estheticians and chemists collaborated to formulate a variety of physical exfoliants so most can find a match that is perfect for their skin. These products can be used in the treatment room as stand-alone exfoliants or in conjunction with chemical and enzymatic exfoliation methods. They can also be retailed to your clients so that they can continue their at-home care maximizing the positive effects of exfoliation.

Creamy Exfoliating Mojito Cleanser

A creamy, mild, non-soap-based hydrating facial cleanser containing local cold-pressed Lime Oil from the shores of sunny Florida! Mint Leaf keeps blemishes in check while acting as a gentle astringent and providing relief to minor skin irritations. Soothing botanicals include German Chamomile and Cucumber extracts. Vitamin E and Safflower Seed oil provide suppleness, while Oat extracts and Jojoba Beads help to cleanse the skin while improving texture and minimizing the appearance of pores.

Learn more about Creamy Exfoliating Mojito Cleanser

Enzyme Polish

This powerful polish poses a double threat to lackluster complexions with a fusion of physical and enzymatic exfoliation. Gently polishing Jojoba Beads combined with the enzymatic action of organic Pineapples and Papaya whisk away dull skin. Bamboo Stem helps strengthen and plump tissue for dewy skin, perfectly prepared for the application of serums and moisturizers.

Learn more about Enzyme Polish

Citrus Scrub

This refreshing and astringent botanical scrub uses Jojoba Beads and Bamboo Stem to buff away impurities, blackheads, and dead cells, leaving a smooth surface with diminished oil. The appearance of pores is minimized, making this the perfect scrub for portrait-perfect makeup application.

Learn more about Citrus Scrub

Lip Sugar Scrub

Jojoba and Coconut oils whipped with Mango and Shea butters create the base of this nourishing lip exfoliant. Sugar sloughs off dry skin while Bamboo stem strengthens and plumps leaving lips kissably smooth. Infused with Watermelon, a favorite quintessential summertime flavor that bursts with a cool, fun, and sweet taste.

Learn more about Lip Sugar Scrub

With ID Skin’s wide range of physical exfoliation options, you are sure to find the perfect product even for your pout! Retailing these products to your clients will help support beautifully balanced skin, increase your bottom line, and keep them remembering their luxurious facial with you every time they exfoliate! Buy a sample of each to begin your own exfoliation exploration by clicking HERE or call us at 239.939.5454 to find out more! And remember to always Be the Best Version of You!