Exfoliation dates back to ancient Egypt and treatments today are still similar to those used by the Egyptians. The top layers of skin are removed either by mechanical or chemical means. There are a number of different types of chemical exfoliation available, including Glycolic acid (AHA peel), Trichloroacetic acid (TCA peel), Salicylic acid, Lipo Hydroxy acid (LHA peel). Each type will remove skin from different depths of the skin’s top layers, depending on the strength of the chemical. For example, an AHA chemical peel is the weakest and is known as a light chemical treatment, a TCA peel is a medium chemical treatment and so on. Old dead skin cells and rough skin is removed and newer skin is revealed. A chemical exfoliation stimulates collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin. The appearance of fine lines are reduced, uneven pigmentation is smoothed out and pore size is refined. At the same time acne causing bacteria is suppressed and blemishes are improved. After a chemical exfoliation the skin is very sensitive and can be slightly reddened, so exposure to direct sunlight should be avoided. It is, therefore, advisable to have a chemical exfoliation during the winter when the sunlight is less intense.  It is essential that care is taken after a chemical exfoliation to avoid any redness or pigmentation damage occurring.

A mechanical exfoliation is done using products like sugar crystals, crushed or ground peach or apricot seeds, which is applied to the skin and then washed off. Dead skin cells from the top layers of the skin are removed reducing the appearance of fine lines and improving the skin’s elasticity. It also stimulates the circulation and prepares the skin to be more able to absorb products applied to the skin. The effect is a softer and firmer skin. However, the skin should not be treated with an exfoliation too often because the top layers of the skin are a natural barrier against environmental influences and can cause dry, flaky and irritated skin. It is recommended that you should only exfoliate once or twice a week. The skin should then be treated with a mild, moisturising face lotion at other times.