How Exfoliation Can Clear the Way for Cell Renewal

Your skin is your body’s largest organ. And as we know, some organs are able to heal themselves and/or regenerate. Your skin just so happens to be one of those organs! For those of you struggling with skin challenges such as post-acne hyperpigmentation - there’s hope.

Through a process called skin cell renewal (AKA skin cell turnover and skin cell regeneration), the skin naturally sheds or overturns dead skin cells and healthy skin cells from deeper layers of skin push to the surface revealing a healthier, more even-looking complexion. Exfoliation clears the way for skin cell renewal!

Fan of spoilers? Scroll down to the bottom for recommended products to exfoliate.

How does the process relate to our skincare routine?

New skin cells are created within the skin, in the skin layer called the epidermis. The cells first begin their life cycle as a single layer of thick, column-shaped cells. Half of the cells in this layer stay behind to mature, and the other half migrate to the skin’s surface.

As the cells continue to float upward, they begin to flatten. Once they arrive at the surface of the skin, they are essentially dead. With time, these dead skin cells continue to shed as newer, matured cells push their way to the surface.

How exfoliation can boost your skincare regimen

Whether we’re talking physical (scrubs) or chemical (acids) exfoliants, exfoliation is key for clearing the way for skin cell renewal by shedding dead skin cells. It can help free your pores of dirt and excess oil, improve the effectiveness of other products, improve uneven skin tone, enhance skin texture and reveal healthier-looking skin.

If possible, you should use an exfoliating scrub a few times a week.

4 exfoliating products to consider

Not sure where to start? The Melanin Experts™ are here to help! Here are three exfoliating products we recommend you incorporate into your regimen to make way for cell turnover and boost your glow!

1. Cleansing Bars - Our 3-in-1 cleansing bars are our claim to fame! Each comes with a cleansing treatment in a convenient jar and an exfoliating sponge. Choose based on your skin type and your exfoliating woes will fade away!
2. Purifying 2-in-1 Pumpkin Pore Detox Mask & Scrub - This self-warming mask and scrub is a bestseller! It contains detoxifying clay and exfoliating Jojoba beads with enzymes and vitamins to deep clean and rejuvenate the skin leaving a smoother, more radiant-looking, pore-perfected complexion!
3. Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment - This treatment is formulated to answer your hyperpigmentation prayers! It exfoliates to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, dark marks, blemish scars, sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles.
4. Even Tone Smooth & Glow Enzyme Mask - Give your skin the weekly treatment it deserves! This radiance-boosting enzyme mask exfoliates and renews dull, uneven skin while improving the look of fine lines, blemishes and dark marks.

There you have it (even for those of you who chose to skip to the end). What you need to know about exfoliation and the products that will help pave the way.

PRO TIP: During the winter months, be mindful of over-exfoliating. The last thing you want to do is strip your skin of essential oils that are critical to maintaining moisture during such a season in which dry skin is running rampant.

For other information on skincare essentials, tips, and products, check out the Glow-Up Guide often.