Does your skin scar a lot? Do you struggle with pigmentation? Because Mira Rajput Kapoor relates. That’s why you’ll find her going on and on about AHAs and BHAs as her go-to exfoliators for the skin. Not physical or manual exfoliators. Nope. Chemical exfoliators are it for Mira, and I think I understand why.
If your skin type is like hers, you might want to change the way you’re exfoliating your face, and very, very soon. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Physical Exfoliation
This method physically dislodges build-up and dirt from the skin. Think of grains, beads, washcloths, and sponges. They scrub away at the topmost layer of your skin to reveal healthier, younger cells underneath. This type of exfoliation is better suited for the rougher, drier parts of the body like the elbows and knees.
What Is Chemical Exfoliation?
This method loosens and dissolves build-up and dirt from the skin. AHAs, BHAs, and fruit/plant-based enzymes are different kinds of chemical-based exfoliators. The way they work is typically gentler (depending on the concentration you’re opting for) and they can even go deeper into the skin. This option is more suitable for sensitive, acne-prone and oil-prone skin as well as for darker skin tones that scar and pigment easily.
Why Mira’s Way Is Better For Your Skin Type…
Mira’s skin scars a lot. Scrubbing can cause microtears on the skin — especially if you’re using a harsh, abrasive scrub or rubbing your skin harshly. If you have oily, acne-prone skin, manual exfoliation can aggravate the inflammation immediately. This won’t just hurt your skin in the short term. It will leave behind scars and marks that you’ll find tricky to remove at home.
Her skin is oily at times too. A BHA, like Salicylic Acid, will deep clean pores of sebum (oil) and other build-ups better than a scrub. But since there are different kinds of acid-based exfoliators, you must know which one to pick for your skin:
- BHAs: for acne, oily skin, sun damage and blackheads.
- AHAs: for sensitive, dry skin with hyperpigmentation, lines, and uneven skin tone.
The St. Botanica AHA Lactic Acid 10% & Hyaluronic Acid 1% Gentle Exfoliating Skin Peel (Face Serum) is your go-to for even-toned, radiant skin. It’s extremely gentle on the skin and contains hydrating Hyaluronic Acid as well.
Paula’s Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant is perfect for oil-prone skin. This one will tackle lines, pores, wrinkles, acne, and blackheads all at once.
If your skin is like Mira’s, you might want to give the scrubs and beads a rest for a while. Try switching to mild exfoliating acids instead.
Featured Image: Instagram