Our Lead Esthetician, Monica, weighs in on the differences between Physical VS Chemical Exfoliators and which one is best for you. Learn the benefits of both and our top picks in each category.
WHICH EXFOLIATOR IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Physical exfoliation refers to granules that you physically manipulate on the surface of the skin to remove surface dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliation refers to exfoliation via acids, most commonly known as Beta Hydroxy Acids (Salicylic Acid) and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (Glycolic, Lactic, Malic, etc.) that loosen the bonds between dead skin cells.
Physical exfoliation is effective for most skin types for instant gratification and a smoother texture, but may not be ideal for those with very sensitive or inflamed skin (severe acne or rosacea clients would not be good candidates).
Chemical exfoliation is a good choice for almost anyone who wants radiance without scrubbing, but it depends on the type of acid and the strength. For example, Salicylic Acid is best suited for oily skin because it is attracted to oil (Lipophilic) to slough away dead skin on the surface and deep inside pores, whereas Glycolic Acid can stimulate collagen production in aging skin. Acids vary in potency depending on the formulation, so if you’re sensitive, try a patch test.
Don’t want to choose? Look for a product that does it all with both chemical and physical exfoliators in one.
CHEMICAL EXFOLIATORS
AHA Glycolic Acid goes to work to hydrate and exfoliate.
This essence gently removes impurities and repairs damaged skin.
A resurfacing treatment illuminates and breaks down dead skin.
PHYSICAL EXFOLIATORS
The best of both, physical and chemical exfoliation, without irritation.
Gentle enough for every day and magically revives dullness.
Detoxicating clay and fruit acid cleanser removes makeup and impurities.
Environ
Tri Bio-Botanical Revival Masque
$89
goop
GoopGlow Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator
$42
Youth to the People
Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask
$48
Nature Of Things
Clarifying Facial Polish
$65
Youth to the People
Yerba Mate Resurfacing Energy Facial
$54
Goldfaden MD
Doctor's Scrub
$75
Tammy Fender
Epi-Peel
$95
Lernberger Stafsing
Volcanic Rock Scrub
$48
Lernberger Stafsing
AHA/BHA Peel Gel Mask
$57
SIO Beauty
Super Eye Lift - 2 pack
$30
VENN
Concentrated Revitalizing Lifting Mask
$85
alpyn beauty
Wild Huckleberry 8-Acid Polishing Peel
$56
SIO Beauty
Eye + Smile Lift - 4 pack
$34
Zitsticka
PRESS REFRESH™ Exfoliating Hydro-Mask
$36
Bynacht
Über Glow Gel Peeling AHA
$80
SIO Beauty
Eye + Smile Lift - 2 pack
$28
Pai
Virtuous Circle Eco-Bead Exfoliator
$49
Decree
SOS Revitalising Eye Mask
$16
Decree
Weekly Decree
$154
Superegg
Calm Movements Eye + Cheek Mask
$50
Environ
Hydroxy Acid Sebu-Clear Masque
$56
Dr. Barbara Sturm
Facial Scrub
$70
Lernberger Stafsing
Advance Clarifying Acid Clay Mask
$68
Goldfaden MD
Fresh A Peel
$85
Dr. Barbara Sturm
Face Mask
$120
Mahōni
Manuka Honey Daily Boost
$54
Pai
Curtain Call Radiance Mask
$59
Goldfaden MD
Goldfaden MD DOCTOR’S SCRUB (Advanced)- Ruby Crystal Microderm Exfoliator
$98
January Labs
Moisture Renew Cream
$38
Goldfaden MD
Facial Detox
$65
Skin Design London
Designer Balm
$150
Dr. Barbara Sturm
Clarifying Mask
$145
Pai
Dinner Out AHA Mask
$49
Nature Of Things
Rejuvenating Overnight Facial Mask
$85
Irene Forte
Pistachio Face Mask
$155
MBR
Awake & Lift Eye Patches
$177
Pai
Resurrection Girl
$49
Decree
SOS Revitalising Sheet Mask
$138
SIO Beauty
Super Lip Lift - 2 pack
$30
Decree
Decree SOS Revitalising Mask Edit
$36
Haoma
Earth Clay Mask
$55
SIO Beauty
Super Eyelift-4 pack
$38
Irene Forte
Apricot Face Peel
$91
Irene Forte
Almond Face Scrub
$89
Youth to the People
Mandelic Acid + Superfood Unity Exfoliant
$38
