In one word: Exfoliate
I always tell my clients: “If you want a great complexion, what you take off your skin is just as important as what you put on it”. Yes, that’s right….let me explain.
Exfoliation is the removal of dead skin cells, but why is it so important for healthy skin? Without proper exfoliation, our skin can end up with layers of dead cells that prevent proper oxygenation of the skin, a slowing of metabolic functioning, faster visible signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles as well as an inability of skincare products to absorb and be effective.
As we age, the rate of new skin cell turnover slows down, meaning the body takes longer to shed old skin cells and regenerate fresh hydrated ones. In an ageing dry/dehydrated skin, too much dead cell build up prevents the skin from breathing properly but once removed, the skin appears tighter, smoother with an overall brilliance that can be seen immediately. In an acne prone skin, a buildup of oil can act as a glue that holds dead cells on the skin, creating a breeding ground for bad bacteria and a build up of blackheads and blemishes. Mechanical removal of these cells is needed to rid the skin of debris while stimulating the natural defences of the new skin cells
In the world of dead cell removal it is important to know that: All products are not created equal. There are numerous exfoliant based products on the market and many of them contain plastic micro-beads, a non biodegradable mixture of synthetic ingredients that are so small they pass through wastewater filtration systems and becomes a hazard to our oceans and marine life. Be a wise consumer and make sure you are always using a sustainable natural based exfoliant. Companies still currently using these micro beads are:
- Christian Dior
- Estee Lauder (who owns Aveda, Bobby Brown, Clinique)
- L’Occitane
- Procter and Gamble (Oil of Olay)
- Sisley Skincare
- Elizabeth Arden
- Avon
- Elemis
Most market leaders in the skincare industry focus on granular based scrubs for home use. These scrubs are only effective it they focus on natural base plant enzymes that combine ingredients that polish the skin as well as hydrate. If the product only contains abrasive particles that scratch the skin (like apricot kernel scrubs) they are highly irritating, drying and can even cause skin damage and micro-scarring.
My favourite granular exfoliant is Yon-Ka’s Guarna scrub, a gentle detoxifier combining Guarana (an amazonian plant rich in bioflavonoids and antioxidants ), organic rice beads mixed with hydrating and healing calendula, chamomile, linden and the restorative essential oils of lavender, geranium and rosemary. Always gentle and perfect for sensitive and problem skins.
While granular scrubs are an easy product to use and handy for the ‘on the go’ type, the best and most effective way to remove dead cells and energize the skin, is through the use of plant based enzyme peels. These peels work by breaking down keratin protein and the bonds between the dead skin cells to quickly whisk them away and encourage cell turnover. One of the worlds best home use enzyme peels, loved by many celebrities and Yon-ka lovers alike, is the Yon-ka Gommage. This peeling, designed for all skin types, including sensitive skins, offers exfoliating, purifying, hydrating and soothing functions. It’s popularity is in its effectiveness as an enzyme gel based exfoliant, granular free and a big drink for the skin. Thanks to the properties of brown algae, white nettle, borneol and plant glycerin, this peel gives an instant effect on the skin and the difference can be seen immediately. Glowing skin and improved products penetration will follow. Exfoliating the skin should be done 1-2 times a week for best results.
Besides the weekly use of a high quality exfoliator, the daily use of cellular renewal products are becoming a popular and effective way to regenerate the skin and keep it glowing. For 35 years of age and over, these products offer a combination of targeted fruit and plant acids that can be used daily and nightly as an effective treatment for combating fine lines and wrinkles, making the skin look firmer and fit. Yon-ka Alpha Peel and Alpha Fluide offer essential ingredients such as lemon,orange, sugar cane, maple, blueberry and beech bud peptides to help refine even the most tired of skins, improving texture and visibly reducing imperfections in the skin. Scar tissue is minimized and skin hydration is noticeable. Hugely popular, it’s a market leader in regenerative skincare.
Of course the benefits of professional exfoliation cannot be understated. Clinical treatments ‘jump start’ the skin and feed the skin nutrients, that are not equal to home based products. Highly technical enzyme treatments stimulate blood flow, restoring the skin as early as 1 treatment. Under the rejuvenating, intensely hydrating action of controlled fruit acids, the epidermis is gently stimulated, cellular renewal is intensified and the complexion is cleared. The use of alpha and beta hydroxy acids in treatment form are used within a narrow ph form, between 3 and 4, offering superb exfoliating actions but gently enough for even highly sensitive skins.
Yon-ka is a premiere French skincare company committed to organic, sustainably farmed, fairtrade, environmentally and renewable conscious manufacturing. The cornerstone of Yon-ka is built on pure passion and desire. Passion for the science of naturally based ingredients: not synthetics. Desire for delivering the world’s most therapeutic and indulgent skin treatments and products with 1 purpose; to heal the skin.
For information please call Julie at Essence Therapeutics- 0641474613 or visit the website: http://www.essencetherapeutics.nl
Julie Jones Advanced Skincare 