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exfoliation
 
> What's the difference between physical and chemical exfoliants?
 
> What should I expect before, during, and after a professional exfoliation treatment?
 
> When shouldn't I exfoliate?
 
 
Q: What's the difference between physical and chemical exfoliants?
 

A: Both physical and chemical exfoliants work to remove dulling surface cells for a brighter, smoother surface.

 
Physical exfoliants use friction together with grains or particles to mechanically remove dead skin cells. This can be achieved through a brush or gentle abrasive ingredients such as Corn Cob Meal, Rice Bran or Oatmeal. Depending on the amount of friction or massage over the skin and the nature of the abrasive, results may vary. Steer clear of scrubs made from ground-up fruit pits or nut shells, which actually scratch and irritate skin.
 
Chemical exfoliants smooth skin by dissolving the intercellular “glue” that attach skin cells to the skin’s surface. Chemical exfoliants can also digest the cells as well. Hydroxy acids like Lactic and Salicylic Acid, Retinol, and enzymes are a few examples of chemical exfoliants.
 
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Q: What should I expect before, during, and after a professional exfoliation treatment?
 

A: Professional exfoliation treatments are a great way to resurface, smooth, and brighten skin. They can help diminish the appearance of fine lines and hyperpigmentation, all while improving elasticity.

 
Before: Professional exfoliation treatments will begin with a professional double cleansing to remove all traces of oil, make-up and debris.
 
During: Based upon the results of your Face Mapping® skin analysis, your professional skin therapist will choose chemical or physical exfoliants, or both, to deliver the desired result. If you experience any discomfort (burning, stinging) during the treatment, alert your professional skin therapist immediately. Professional exfoliation uses stronger higher activity products, so some tingling is often expected.
 
After: Exfoliation, especially exfoliation with hydroxy acids, may increase your sensitivity to the sun as little as 13% and up to 50%. For this reason, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) requires an application of SPF after any Hydroxy Acid treatment – good advice for your home care regimen as well.
 
Your professional skin therapist will also prescribe an at-home regimen to help you maintain the results.
 
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Q: When shouldn't I exfoliate?
 
A: While exfoliation is recommended for almost every skin condition, there are times when you shouldn't exfoliate.
 
Skin that has been recently sunburned or waxed should not be exfoliated. Never exfoliate over open wounds or cuts. 
 
If you have a sensitized skin condition, exfoliation may further compromise your skin’s natural protective barrier. It is important to follow the advice of your skin therapist when exfoliation is a part of your professional treatment and home care regimen.
 
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  Some of the products your professional skin therapist may prescribe will include:
   
 
daily microfoliant®
A gentle, daily use Rice-based powder that microfoliates for smoother, brighter skin
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daily resurfacer
Resurface, smooth and brighten with a precise daily dose of this exfoliating treatment
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skin prep scrub

A skin-polishing scrub for a smooth, healthy complexion

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gentle cream exfoliant

A non-abrasive exfoliation treatment for dramatically smooth skin

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multivitamin thermafoliant™

Reveal smoother, fresher skin immediately with this powerful thermal skin polisher

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solar defense booster spf30

Mix with your favorite moisturizer or make-up to boost the sun protection power

learn more
 
           
 
 
 
 
 
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