Collection: Exfoliants

Korean exfoliants are an essential step in your facial care routine, designed to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture. Unlike traditional exfoliants, which can be harsh, Korean products prioritize gentleness and respect for the skin barrier, using natural ingredients and advanced technologies. These products not only cleanse deeply but also prepare the skin to better absorb subsequent treatments.

There are two main types of exfoliants: physical (mechanical) and chemical , each with its own specific benefits and uses. Korean exfoliants stand out for their ability to combine both approaches in a balanced way, adapting to different skin types.

Types of Korean Exfoliants:

1. Physical (Mechanical) Exfoliants:

• How they work: They use physical particles or tools to remove dead cells through gentle friction.
• Common ingredients: Rice powder, sugar granules, biodegradable microspheres or exfoliating pads.
• Benefits: Ideal for normal or combination skin that needs deep cleansing without irritation.

Example:

• Skinfood Black Sugar Mask Wash Off: A black sugar exfoliating mask that removes impurities and nourishes the skin.
• COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad: BHA-pre-impregnated pads that cleanse pores without rubbing.

2. Chemical Exfoliants:

• How they work: They use mild acids to dissolve the bonds between dead cells, promoting more efficient cell renewal.
• Common acids:
  • AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): Glycolic, lactic, mandelic – ideal for exfoliating the skin’s surface, brightening and treating dark spots.
  • BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acids): Salicylic – penetrates deep into pores, ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.
  • PHA (Poly Hydroxy Acids): Gentler than AHA/BHA, ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.

Example:

• Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum: Combines three types of acids to exfoliate, purify and soothe the skin.
• Dear Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil: Contains charcoal extracts and plant oils to deeply cleanse without over-drying.

Main Benefits of Korean Exfoliants:

1. Cell renewal: Eliminates dead cells, leaving the skin softer and brighter.
2. Pore ​​unclogging: Reduces blackheads, pimples, and accumulated residue in the pores.
3. Texture improvement: Smooths the skin, reduces roughness and improves overall appearance.
4. Preparation for treatments: Optimizes the absorption of products such as serums, essences, and creams.
5. Anti-aging: Promotes cell renewal, reducing fine lines and dark spots.

What type of exfoliant should you choose according to your skin?

1. Sensitive or reactive skin:

• Opt for gentle chemical exfoliants like PHA or soothing formulations with centella asiatica or calamine.
• Example: Round Lab Cicatoning Toner (with mild AHA/BHA).

2. Oily or acne-prone skin:

• Look for products with BHA (salicylic acid) or activated charcoal to deep cleanse pores and control oil.
• Example: Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid.

3. Dry or dehydrated skin:

• Prefer exfoliants with AHA (lactic or glycolic) or moisturizing formulations that do not dry out the skin.
• Example: Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lotion (with AHA).

4. Mature or hyperpigmented skin:

• Use products with AHA or vitamin C to brighten, reduce dark spots, and improve elasticity.
• Example: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution.

How to Use:

1. Physical exfoliants:

   • Apply to damp skin after cleansing. Gently massage in circular motions and rinse with warm water.
   • Recommended frequency: 1-2 times per week, depending on your skin's tolerance.
   
   

2. Chemical exfoliants:

   • Apply to clean, dry skin. Use a small amount and spread evenly, avoiding the eye area. No need to rinse (depending on the product).
   • Recommended frequency: Start with 1-2 times per week and adjust based on your skin's response.

Popular Korean Scrub Recommendations:

Physical Exfoliants:

1. Innisfree Volcanic Pore Scrub: With volcanic stone particles to deeply cleanse pores.
2. Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Green Tea: Exfoliating pads with green tea that cleanse and soothe simultaneously.

Chemical Exfoliants:

1. COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid: With AHA to brighten and smooth skin.
2. Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Sleeping Mask: Combines AHA, BHA and niacinamide to renew and brighten overnight.
3. Dr. Oracle A-Thera Tea Tree Peeling Serum: With salicylic acid and tea tree extract to combat acne.

Additional Tips:

1. Avoid overdoing it: Don't exfoliate more than necessary, as this can damage your skin's protective barrier.
2. Sun protection: If you use chemical exfoliants, be sure to apply sunscreen during the day, as your skin may become more sensitive to the sun.
3. Patch test: Test on a small area before using a new exfoliant, especially if you have sensitive skin.

With Korean exfoliants , you can achieve smooth, radiant, and healthy-looking skin without compromising its natural barrier. Whether you prefer physical or chemical exfoliation, these products offer innovative solutions for all skin types.