With the winter months fast approaching and the weather turning cold, skin can become drained of its natural protective oils which help maintain our skin barrier. Between the harsh winter weather and indoor heaters this can lead to the build-up of dry dead skin cells. These skin cells sit on the surface of our skin and can leave our skin appearing dry, lifeless and dull. Not only can this lead to a lifeless dull complexion, it can also lead to dryness, blocked pores, congestion and inhibit our skincare actives from penetrating, slowing benefits and results.
This is when the application of resurfacing products come in, to assist in removing the build-up of dry dead skin cells by exfoliating the outer layers of the skin to reveal fresher, more radiant look. This will promote skin radiance to brighten your complexion, even skin tone and improve skin texture as well as inhibit dry skin from flaking that the cold weather and low humidity, winter brings.
When it comes to resurfacing products, your options are far from limited to suit your individual needs. There are five common types, all with a different action suitable for a wide range of skin types to suit your individual needs. Supplement your skin care for a brighter looking complexion with these resurfacing ingredients and bring back that glow, your skin truly deserves!
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids
AHA’s also referred to as chemical exfoliants are ingredients that break down the glue that adheres dead skin cells to the surface of the skin. AHA’s are hydrophilic or water soluble and they act on the surface of the skin to assist with smoothing skin texture and evening out skin tone. The most common AHA is Lactic Acid, this is the largest molecule of the AHA’s, and most gentle. Lactic Acid, is an ideal option for exfoliating dry skin types and is gentle yet effective for all skin types. Opting for a Lactic Acid Serum, is the perfect choice for individuals who prefer a nonabrasive action and yet strong enough to get the job done.
Aspect Exfol L, Cosmedix Defy & PCA Skin Body Therapy
Beta-Hydroxy Acids
BHA’s are also referred to as chemical exfoliants and are considered lipophilic or oil soluble. The most common BHA is Salicylic Acid which works deep within the pores creating a bottle brush action to assist with sweeping and lifting excess oil and the build-up of dead skin cells. Salicylic Acid is best suited for oily and problematic skin types. Masks containing Salicylic Acid are a great option in the winter months for oily and congested skin types.
Aspect Exfoliating Clay Mask, Cosmedix Clear Deep Cleansing Mask & DermaQuest DermaClear Mask
Enzymatic Exfoliation
Enzymes are typically sourced from fruits, with the most common being pineapple (bromelain) and papaya (papain) enzymes. The upper layer of the skin is mostly made up of dead skin cells, which contains the protein Keratin. Enzymes work by slowly breaking down the keratin protein, which will slough away the build-up of dead skin cells leaving the skin smooth, refined and radiant making it an ideal resurfacing product choice for all skin types and gentle enough for a delicate skin. Enzyme mask is an ideal choice in the winter months, sloughing away dead skin cells and saturating the skin with antioxidants for that instant glow and rejuvenated look.
Aspect Fruit Enzyme Mask, Cosmedix Pure Enzymes Exfoliating Mask & Societe Superfruit Enzyme Exfoliator
Physical Exfoliation
Physical exfoliants are granular ingredients that manually remove dead skin cells and require a gentle scrubbing or polishing action. Physical exfoliants work by scrubbing away dead skin cells and can be used on both the face and body leaving your skin fresh, brighter and clearer for a smoother surface. Physical exfoliants are an ideal choice for immediate results and a great option to prepare your skin prior to applying your active skincare in the evening.
Aspect Illuminating Polish, Cosmedix Purity Detox Scrub & PCA Skin Pore Refining Treatment
Vitamin A
Vitamin A will exfoliate the outer layers of the skin to reveal fresher, radiant cells and minimise the visible appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin A is a great addition to add to your anti-ageing skin regime to get a brighter looking complexion and to increase skin radiance, whilst promoting even skin tone and skin texture, this is a must have for all skin types.
With the winter months fast approaching and bringing with it dry air which as such, can draw moisture from the skin and contribute to that dull complexion along with undesirable factors. Kick start your skin care regime with our top picks of resurfacing products and get that glow back!
Aspect Dr Exfol A Plus, Aspect Retinol Brulee, Cosmedix Define, Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream Face & DermaQuest Retinaldehyde Renewal Cream
Author: Holly Proudman, AST Education Operations Coordinator