BEST GENTLE EXFOLIATORS FOR MATURE SKIN + CLOGGED PORES
We have covered the two basic steps in a skin care routine, cleansing and toning. Next is exfoliating which is the process of removing dead skin cells to help reveal healthier more youthful skin. Physical exfoliators such as tiny beads work with the top layer of the skin with physical action whereas chemical exfoliation works to go deeper in the cells, a great option if you have a lot of congestion.
Like I always say, do your research to find the best exfoliator for your skin type and tolerance. It is recommended to exfoliate 1-3 times a week to keep your skin fresh and healthy. I find that with physical exfoliators I can tolerate twice a week but with chemical exfoliators only once week, or I simply alternate to not irritate my skin.
Listed below are some exfoliators, physical and chemical, that I have tried, still use and highly recommend.
Biologique Recherche P50V
About 6 years ago I tried a CC cream that completely broke me out. BAD. I was desperate to find something to heal my skin and spent hours online reading articles and blog posts. One of my favorite creators, Helena of Brooklyn Blonde, mentioned this French cult classic and I went to work on reading all about it. After weeks of reading reviews I bit the bullet and got a bottle of Biologique Recherche P50V. It is expensive so I went with the smallest bottle. I saw a drastic improvement in my skin in just two weeks and immediately ordered the biggest bottle and I do not regret it. There are several variations of P50 so I highly recommend doing your research and contacting Rescue Spa (that’s where I get it) and speak with a professional that can help you decide which formula is best for you. I can go on and on and on about why I love this so much and honestly, I have! In blog posts, YouTube videos etc. When used properly, this product is a game changer! It was for me and I hope it is for you as well.
Dermalogica - Daily Microfoliant
Don’t be like younger me and use incredibly abrasive exfoliators!!! I remember when I first tried the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant and doubted that the powdery substance would do anything to my skin. I was so very wrong! Key ingredients include salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, licorice, and colloidal oatmeal which get activated with water. It gently exfoliates revealing brighter and smoother skin. Great for all skin types including acne-prone, oily, dry, combination, normal, and even sensitive skin.
Garnier Skinactive Ultra Clean 3-in-1 with Charcoal
This was a random purchase for my boyfriend and instantly became a favorite of his and eventually mine because, well, sharing is caring. The Garnier Skinactive Ultra Clean 3-in-1 is a cleanser, exfoliator and mask. It contains charcoal and white clay to reduce oil. I like to dab it on emerging blemishes as a spot treatment to control its growth LOL! Great for oily and combination skin.
Peter Thomas Roth Peptide 21™ Amino Acid Exfoliating Peel Pads
I did an entire Youtube video dedicated to the Peptide 21™ collection which you should definitely check out!! These pads were by far my favorite and what excited me the most. At the time of first use I had small red bumps on my forehead, something typical that happens to me during the summer, and by the next day the bumps were barely even noticeable. They prep the skin for treatment products helping them to be absorbed better. The Peter Thomas Roth Peptide 21 Amino Acid Exfoliating Peel Pads help with almost every skin concern: texture, uneven skin tone, fine lines, wrinkles and pore size.
Urban Skin Rx Dermapeel Smooth and Glow Treatment
I had never tried dermaplanning at a professional level let alone an at-home dermaplanning until I was gifted the Urban Skin Rx Dermapeel Smooth and Glow Treatment set, so I made sure to check out Urban Skin Rx’s videos on Youtube for a quick tutorial. It was pretty seamless and a step I have now incorporated into my routine at least once a week if I think my skin can tolerate it. The chemical peel pads do sting when applied and there is slight redness so be mindful of that. The next day, even days later your skin will be glowing.
Throwing some additional tools here that I like to use to help with the absorption of products. I like to use these after a chemical exfoliant before going in with serums, but also after as well.
Urban Skin Rx DermRenew Complexion Corrector Microneedling Tool
I was introduced to this tool by an amazing esthetician at an Urban Skin Rx event. This DermRenew Complexion Corrector Microneedling Tool in particular is for at-home use so nothing like what is done at a medspa. However, worth the introduction to this procedure if you’ve never done it before. Microneedling uses tiny needles that puncture the very first layer of skin and the benefits include stimulating collagen production, helps reduce scars and hyperpigmentation, improves skin texture and helps for products to be absorbed more deeply. It is uncomfortable at first and hurts a bit in certain areas of your face. Redness is to be expected so don’t get freaked out by that! My skin always looks 10 times better after microneedling and I know the products I’m using are penetrating and doing their thing. Eventually I will try the full treatment at a spa but until then this will do.
Pacifica Crystal Wand Secret Weapon Rose Quartz Facial Roller
Only fools say using a facial roller is pointless and I say they crazy! JK. As someone who is pretty darn swollen in the morning I can tell you that this absolutely helps!! I keep my Pacifica Rose Quartz Facial Roller in the refrigerator and the cooling sensation is the most calming, soothing thing ever. Using a facial roller will help decrease puffiness, stimulate blood flow and lymphatic drainage. Personally I also feel like it pushes products further into the skin as well. I just love it!