Exfoliation – are you doing it right?

What is peeling?

Peeling is a type of cosmetic procedure that aims to exfoliate excess dead skin cells . The same word also refers to the products used for this purpose , which are used to improve the appearance and functioning of the skin.

Peeling can be a way to combat discoloration or acne (as well as a method to reduce acne scars ), and as an element of your shaving routine (for example, your legs) it can protect you from the unpleasant effects of ingrown hairs!

Types of peeling

Mechanical peeling (also known as scrub)

It comes in the form of a cream or gel with abrasive particles. Such peeling can be fine-grained or coarse-grained, and contraindications to its performance are sensitive , acne-prone or irritated skin !

Among the mechanical methods of exfoliation of the epidermis, cavitation peeling is also mentioned. To fully understand what this procedure is, let's first answer the question: what is cavitation?

Cavitation is a phenomenon of sudden phase change (from liquid to gas) due to pressure reduction.

You ask: "hey, hey, how does this relate to body care?! "

During cavitation peeling, the action of ultrasonic waves is used . These waves, in contact with the previously moistened (this is very important!) skin surface, cause the formation of air bubbles and then their bursting, which gently removes the upper part of the stratum corneum of the epidermis. This is a popular facial treatment, but it can also be performed on other parts of the body!

Chemical peeling

As the name suggests, the removal of excess dead skin cells occurs through the action of chemicals. Their task is to loosen the connections between the cells of the stratum corneum, which significantly facilitates and accelerates the process of their exfoliation. Alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids are most often used in chemical peels .

Enzymatic peeling

Its action is based on a similar mechanism to chemical peeling, but it is based on enzymes (synthetic or natural; those obtained from fruits, including pineapple or papaya, are very popular).

If you're wondering which option is best for shaving: opt for a mechanical exfoliation . Depending on the part of the body you want to exfoliate, choose the grain level that suits you best.

Exfoliation: before or after shaving?

Definitely before ! And why?

Exfoliating just before shaving your intimate areas (and not only – the same goes for your legs or any other part of your body) will cleanse your skin of any impurities and excess dead skin , which will allow the razor to move smoothly over the surface. Additionally, exfoliating before shaving your bikini line will slightly lift the hairs , which will help prevent them from growing in .

It happens that instead of growing naturally upwards, the hair bends and encounters resistance from the upper layers of the skin. Inflammation may then occur, and additionally, purulent discharge may collect around the hair.

How to fight purulent pimples after shaving? We know – we have collected tips for you in the article .

What happens if you use an aftershave scrub?

This is an easy way to irritate your skin and feel an annoying burning sensation .

Remember: the skin after hair removal needs special care, especially if it has been irritated by shaving . Take care of it properly.

Intimate area peeling – which one to choose?

A bikini area peel should definitely be gentle – the skin in these areas is very sensitive, so it is easy to get various types of irritation. Opt for a fine-grained peeling-scrub , preferably one that contains moisturizing oils or aloe. You will combine business with pleasure – you will cleanse the skin , and at the same time give it some encouragement and regenerate it .

Additionally, when performing the peeling, make sure that its particles do not get into the vaginal opening. Remember: all care treatments are performed on the outside, not inside - that is, we wash the vulva , the vagina will take care of itself. :)

Do you shave? Okay. Don't shave? That's fine too! Our advice is not meant to suggest that one option is better than the other. However, we feel it is our duty to stand guard over conscious and proper care. And we sincerely hope that we inspire you to do the same!

Acne-like breakouts could be folliculitis , "American Academy of Dermatology", https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/az/folliculitis [accessed on May 31, 2022].
Ingrown hairs , "The NHS website", https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ingrown-hairs/ [accessed on May 31, 2022].