KOREAN EXFOLIATORS AND SCRUBS
In Korean skin care, there are two main types of exfoliators – chemical and physical.
Chemical exfoliators are those made on a base of acids (like AHAs, BHAs and PHAs). Physical exfoliators or face scrubs are manual type exfoliants, based on granulated textures.
Exfoliators are used after cleansers in your Korean skin care routine. They work to remove dull, dead skin, excess oil, and any buildup of impurities.
Regular exfoliation helps to reveal smoother, more luminous and evenly toned skin. Unlike other skincare products, which are used daily, exfoliators only need to be used once or twice a week for great results. For those with sensitive skin, exfoliating once a week is ideal to help get rid of dead skin without irritation.
What Are Chemical Exfoliators?
Chemical exfoliators contain gentle acids that help to remove dead skin. They are ideal for increasing the rate of skin cell turnover, evening out an uneven skin tone and fading acne scars.
Chemical exfoliants work by gently peeling away the outer layers of your skin. The chemical ingredients are able to penetrate into the pores to remove dead skin, and prevent the formation of common skin issues like blackheads and whiteheads.
In Korean skin care, the most common chemical exfoliants include ingredients like Alpha/Beta Hydroxy Acids, Lactic Acid and Glycolic Acid. Keep an eye out for ingredients derived from natural sources like willow bark, fruit acids, sugar and milk. While the words ‘chemicals’ and ‘acids’ may sound harsh on skin, in the right concentrations they can work to effectively buff the skin without irritation.
Korean Face Scrubs
Facial scrubs are physical exfoliators.
This is because they contain granulated substances that you rub on your skin to buff away dull, dead skin cells, rough patches and uneven skin texture. In Korean skin care, common face scrub ingredients include black sugar, rice, and the rinds of fruits.
Which Korean exfoliator is best for my skin?
The perfect Korean exfoliator and scrub for you depends on your skin type and skin concerns.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, the best exfoliator would be the one that has gentle ingredients. The goal is to remove dead skin without irritating or stripping the skin of much-need moisture. Opt for products that contain ingredients like lactic acid and fruit acids or milder granules like peeling gels.
On the other hand, if you have oily, acne-prone skin, opt for chemical exfoliators that contain BHA. These will deeply cleanse the pores, eliminate blackheads and control excess oil. Face scrubs that contain sugar granules are also a good fit to gently slough away dead skin and dry patches.
Need help finding the best exfoliator or best exfoliating scrub?
Reach out to the team of KBeauty experts at STYLE STORY and we would be happy to match you with your perfect Korean skincare product.
