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DO NOT TRUST PHYSICAL EXFOLIANTS AND AHA/BHA.

Many beauty magazines tout the advantages of exfoliants and, exfoliation is actually very important to maintain a healthy and clean skin. Dead skin cells accumulate on the surface of our faces every day and, it can mix with dirt, oil and old makeup. The build up leads to clogged pores, and this can cause rosacea and skin rash. Therefore, exfoliating plays an important role in protecting the skin from acne and other blemishes. It also helps unclog your pores, and make your complexion look radiant, fresh and healthy.

If this concept is somehow new to you, you may have a hard time deciding what to buy. All exfoliants belong to one of two major types – physical and chemical. According to Wikipedia, a physical exfoliant includes microfiber cloths, crushed apricot kernel or almond shells and other abrasive materials to physically scrub the skin. A Chemical exfoliants contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid or fruit enzymes that act to loosen the glue-like substance that holds cells together, allowing them to "melt" away. 

Physical exfoliants can cause hundreds of micro-tears and scratches on your skin. Dermatologists express concerns about physical (or mechanical) exfoliants because of this. The uneven rough texture on the surface is the result of this. Also, if you get a lot of micro-tears over a period of time, your skin could become a sensitive skin type that is more susceptible to acne, eczema or other skin problems. Long-term physical exfoliant usage makes your skin lose moisture and interrupt the natural skin immunity.

On the other hand, chemical exfoliation is, surprisingly, much gentler, although it sounds harsher. It aids in skin cell turnover by removing dead skin cells without scrubbing. However, you should know below before picking up any chemical exfoliants in the shelves.

“Not all chemical exfoliants are safe!”

Currently, alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and beta hydroxy acid (BHA) are most widely used among beauty fans. A number of people using these acids have grown dramatically, because it brings the youthful look of skin. However, these ingredients are linked to UV-induced skin damages, according to FDA studies and EWG research. These studies have identified a doubling of UV damage to skin among people using AHA-containing products. This damage would be contributing to skin cancer. In addition, BHA, which is salicylic acid, is considered to be harmful for pregnant or breastfeeding women. The acid could cause birth defects when it is absorbed into the skin and into the bloodstream.

Then, you would ask “Which exfoliants should I choose?” The answer is “Fruit enzyme”. The mildest and safest ingredient as an exfoliant that do not cause micro-tears or irritation on your skin is fruit enzyme. Papain, an enzyme derived from papaya, is safe and gentle, while its cleansing power is strong. It is perfect for even sensitive skin, as is very mild. The papaya enzyme smoothly degrades the grime and keratin only in the outermost layer of the epidermis. Because of these properties, you can use papain as an exfoliant every single day. 

JKosmmune Enzyme Cleansing powder is like a magical powder because it smoothly cleans away dead skin cells with papain, revealing brighter and more hydrated skin underneath with beta glucan. This product is a fan’s favorite for its tendency to deliver great skin after each use.

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