Exfoliating vs. Cleansing
Exfoliation is the foundation of healthy skin. Imagine conditioning your hair without shampooing first—how would your hair feel, and how might it affect its texture and styling?
Now, think of skincare in the same way. If your skin isn’t exfoliated, dead cells build up over time. Exfoliation doesn’t need to be done every day—only as often as your skin requires, depending on your current condition.
Why Exfoliate
The purpose of exfoliation is to remove dead skin cells. Everyone has them. Our skin is made up of cells that, from our early teens through adulthood, have a lifespan of about 28 days. As we age, this lifespan slows and can extend up to 90 days. This process, called cell turnover, is the time it takes for a new cell to replace an old one. If ignored, dead cells accumulate on the skin’s surface, leading to dullness, clogged pores, and dry, rough texture. The key to exfoliation is moderation.
Starting with once a week and gradually increasing to two or three times weekly is sufficient, depending on the strength of the ingredients and the sensitivity of your skin. Regular body exfoliation also supports a healthy skin barrier and helps maintain balanced, comfortable skin.
Cleansing
Cleansing, on the other hand, removes oil, dirt, bacteria, and grime. The cleanser you choose affects your skin’s moisture balance. Formulas with harsh sulfates, which foam and give a “squeaky clean” sensation, can strip away essential natural oils, leaving skin tight, irritated, or red. It is best to use a gentle formula—enough to lift impurities while respecting the skin barrier. Keep in mind that cleansing alone does not remove dead skin cells unless the product is specifically formulated to do so.
Prepare the skin for nourishment
The skin needs a clean surface to absorb a lotion or cream effectively. If dead skin cells remain on the surface, products may simply sit on top or become trapped in clogged pores, deepening congestion.
Exfoliation lays the groundwork for the skin’s receptivity. Regular exfoliation prepares the skin to better absorb the rest of your routine, leaving it feeling stable, calm, soft, hydrated, moisturized, and more even in complexion.
Regardless of your skin goals—whether seeking a glowing complexion or addressing specific concerns—skin health and comfort remain primary at LEVETEM. A healthy skin barrier provides the freedom to adapt your routine, using as much or as little skincare as feels right for you.
