Microexfoliation involves the use of an abrasive material to remove dead skin cells.
Exfoliation is the process of removing the top layer of skin from the body with an abrasive material. Microexfoliation is one form of this process, where the abrasive substance contains minute particles. The beauty industry sells micro-exfoliation as a salon procedure and also as creams or wipes for home use.
The human body has an outer layer of skin cells that are no longer alive. These dead cells protect the skin from environmental damage, but can also cause the skin to become dull. Micro-exfoliation products are used to remove this upper layer. The results can leave skin smoother and younger looking. Most of the time, treatment is designed for the skin on the face and neck, but salon and commercial products can also target areas of the body, such as the back, chest, or hands.
Exfoliation is the removal of the top layer of skin with an abrasive material.
Any abrasive substance can form the basis of a micro-exfoliation product if the manufacturer can make the particles small enough to remove portions of the top layer of skin. Some product manufacturers use round-shaped particles designed to help prevent unnecessary damage to the layers of skin below. Damage and side effects can sometimes occur, such as redness and pain in the target area. Microscrub may be popular for those who want to look younger, clients with problem skin, and those with sun-damaged skin.
Creams and wipes allow people to micro-exfoliate at home.
Microexfoliation is similar to another cosmetic procedure called microdermabrasion. This is primarily a salon treatment that uses harsh abrasives like aluminum oxide. Microscrub products tend to contain smaller particulate abrasive substances, such as rice bran or baking soda. Salon treatments may also incorporate additional steps before the peel, such as vacuuming the skin, which can help increase blood flow to the face.
Micro-exfoliation products can make the skin smoother and more useful.
Home micro-exfoliation versions are available in both cloth and cream. Rice bran is a popular ingredient in creams, and cloth forms contain certain plastic forms that remove dead skin cells without the need for an exfoliating wash. While at-home exfoliation kits can be less harsh than some salon treatments, users should be careful when using them, as the skin around the eyes, for example, can be easily damaged by the abrasion process.