Whats the difference between physical and chemical exfoliants?
Both physical and chemical exfoliants work to remove dulling surface cells for a brighter, smoother surface. Physical exfoliants use friction together with grains or particles to mechanically remove dead skin cells. This can be achieved through a brush or gentle abrasive ingredients such as Corn Cob Meal, Rice Bran or Oatmeal. Depending on the amount of friction or massage over the skin and the nature of the abrasive, results may vary. Steer clear of scrubs made from ground-up fruit pits or nut shells, which actually scratch and irritate skin. Chemical exfoliants smooth skin by dissolving the intercellular “glue” that attach skin cells to the skin’s surface. Chemical exfoliants can also digest the cells as well. Hydroxy acids like Lactic and Salicylic Acid, Retinol, and enzymes are a few examples of chemical exfoliants.
