Chemical and MAnual Exfoliation

"Chemical Exfoliation is a reaction where the product “eats away” at dead skin cells at the surface of the skin and cleans deep into pores at the deeper layers of skin. Examples include Plant Peels and acids such as, AHA’s, BHA’s and PHA’s. These acids do different things to the skin, (blog coming on this soon!), but all exfoliate and increase cell turnover, which brings brighter and tighter skin. I love Aveda’s Liquid Exfoliant, which contains Salicylic Acid, a type of BHA, to clear out dead skin cells and improve the experience of enlarged pores. With any exfoliating product, start use slowly and increase use as your skin tolerates the product. Aveda’s liquid exfoliant can be used once daily after cleaning.

Manual Exfoliation is a physical scrub that exfoliates only at the surface level of the skin. They contain scrubbing beads that use friction against the skin to get rid of dead skin cells (Aveda and BareMinerals use natural, a form of non synthetic beads). Be mindful that the beads are rounded and some scrubs can actually use an unrounded abrasive bead. These forms can be damaging due to the irregular shape of the beads, cutting and harming your skin. I highly suggest Aveda’s Radiant Skin Refiner, which uses bamboo powder to gently buff skin to smoothness. Manual exfoliants are recommended for use twice weekly.

I recommend only using one method of exfoliation at a time in your skincare routine. Too much exfoliation can damage the skin’s barrier, strip the skin of its moisture, and cause irritation. So which method should you use? If you’re noticing dry, flaky skin, try using manual exfoliation to bring radiance to your skin. If your concern is about the texture of your skin or enlarged pores, chemical exfoliation can bring you to a more refined appearance.

If you have any other skincare questions or need more help figuring out what’s best for you, see me in the spa for a consultation!” -Xoxo Vai

Did you know Vai has a spa special going on for the month of February?!? Every Tuesday she is offering 40% off and every Thursday she is offering 20% off!

• Facials

• Dermaplaning

• Microdermabrasion

• Waxing

• Lash Lifting and Tinting

• Brow Lamination and Tinting