Many of us know that we need to exfoliate our skin a few times a week. This is because it’s the most effective way to get rid of any build-up that may have become trapped in our pores. If we don’t perform this skincare step, it could have all sorts of negative side effects, ranging from acne to premature ageing – eek!
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Physical exfoliation, or when there are beads in the product that scrub away dead skin cells, isn’t always the safest option, as it can cause long-term damage to your skin in the form of micro-tears. You might not be able to see them, but they can aggravate the signs of ageing as you get older, and they can even compromise your skin’s protective barrier. This is why chemical exfoliation, such as gentle daily peeling solutions that contain glycolic acid, have become so popular. They are swiped on either in the form of a mask or toner, and melt the bonds that are holding the dead skin on to your face. These can, however, cause sensitive skin to become red and sore. So how can you exfoliate without causing any damage? Skin polish.
The texture of skin polishes is much finer than a regular exfoliator. They are generally powdery and form a paste on contact with water, which can then be used all over the face. This will make for healthy, more radiant skin and a much easier surface on which to apply makeup.
Want to get polishing? Here are five products we love. (And we’re sure you will too!)
A budget beauty buy that's made using natural ingredients Ginseng and rice are the hero ingredients in this skin polish and, when mixed with water, create a gentle paste perfect for buffing away dead skin. High-end results achieved with natural ingredients Packed with chemical exfoliant glycolic acid as well as microbeads means your skin is left super smooth and radiant. This vegan brand was designed with South African skin in mind Purifying tea tree, poppy seeds and minerals are the main ingredients in this polish which exfoliates without stripping the skin. If you want your skin to look like you've just had a facial, this should be your go-to product Salicylic acid is known for its ability to unclog and diminish pores, and this salon-approved product has just the right amount of it. This tried-and-tested favourite is the skincare staple of many The powder formula activates when it comes into contact with water, and it instantly leaves skin feeling smoother and looking brighter.1. Rice is nice
The Body Shop Chinese Ginseng & Rice Clarifying Polishing Powder Wash
2. Naturally does it
REN Micro Polish Cleanser
3. Local is lekker
Deity Face Polish
4. Salon skin
Sorbet Salon Skin Daily Skin Polish Powder
5. Face first
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
PHOTO: iStock/kate_sept2004
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