Exfoliants

Currently, there are two types of exfoliants: Chemical exfoliants and Physical exfoliants. For the purpose of this blog, I will be addressing the the benefits of using physical exfoliants.

To fully understand how a physical exfoliants work, you’ll need to first understand the basics of what the product is applied to i.e. the skin. Our skin has 3 main layers the Dermis (meaning hidden), the Epidermis (meaning above) and the Hypodermis (the foundational ‘feeder’).

The epidermis is comprised of 5 layers and each of the 5 layers has a specific purpose. These layers are constantly transitioning to the next upper layer for the skin to renew and exfoliate naturally. The very top layer of the epidermis is known as the ‘Stratum Corneum”. Stratum meaning layer and Corneum meaning Horny. The ‘horny’ layer was named because of it undulating apex, sharp horny peaks. Interestingly, the overview microscopic image of the stratum corneum is similar to old drywalling.

So how do we combat the signs of aging?

In order to create smooth, youthful looking skin, the Horny Layer peaks need to be flattened via exfoliation.  Some doctors favour chemical exfoliation over physical exfoliation, not only because it’s their way of earning a living but because chemical exfoliants enable deeper penetration creating a smoother overview appearance.  To add, some doctors have suggested that exfoliant scrubs are too harsh causing inflammation and exfoliants should only be used on the feet. One cosmetic doctor has gone as far to say that the skin on your face differs from the skin on your body stating that “the skin on your body is far stronger than on our face”.  Normally our face and hands that are exposed to the elements and the rest of our bodies are covered up by clothing. Logically, the elements play a role on the skin, making the skin thicker and weathered.

N.B. There are two notable areas of skin that differ from the rest of our body. That is: around the eyes (extremely fine skin) and the heels of our feet (thicker skin). Never, ever exfoliate around the eyes!

Exfoliants that are either chemical or physical, are designed for the exact same purpose and that is to be abrasive, to remove skin cells and flatten the horny level apex peaks and to give you a smoother, more youthful appearance. But, don’t be too alarmed at the word abrasive. One of the most abrasive elements is water and we use water to drink and bathe in every day.

Sundance The Designer Tan’s Derm-Exfoliant is a physical exfoliant designed for all skin types to rejuvenate & oxygenate through stimulation by removing impurities and dull skin cells. This allows new skin cells to appear, transforming your complexion into a radiant, youthful appearance. Derm-Exfoliant can reduce fine lines and unclog pores without harshly stripping away the skin’s protective layer. Derm-Exfoliant is excellent to use for preparation prior to using Sundance The Designer Tan, tanning mousse, for the longevity of your tan. It is suitable to use on the body and face and is recommended to use weekly.