Chemical vs. Physical Exfoliation: What’s the Difference?
Both chemical and physical ELEMIS exfoliators are designed to deliver results without being harsh or irritating. The best part? You don’t need to choose just one—when used correctly, chemical and physical exfoliation can work hand in hand to support your body care routine.
Why exfoliate?
-
✦ Restore radiance: Promotes skin cell turnover
-
✦ Keep pores clear: Helps prevent congestion
-
✦ Remove buildup: Fights dryness and dull-looking skin
-
✦ Maximize absorption: Enhances the effectiveness of creams and serums
-
✦ Refine texture: Creates a smoother surface for flawless make-up application
Our customer favorite Pro-Collagen Tri-Acid Peel and the new Pro-Collagen Glow Boost Exfoliator can be paired together to unlock a luminous, healthy-looking complexion.
| Type of exfoliator | Chemical | Physical |
|
What it means |
Chemical exfoliation breaks down the intercellular proteins, encouraging the outer layer of dead skin cells to loosen, providing an exfoliating action and stimulating skin renewal. |
Physical exfoliation using body exfoliators lifts dead skin and other debris from the surface through a mechanical action, instantly revealing the skin below and often immediately improving skin texture. |
| Key ingredients |
Enzymes and Acids, such as Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) |
Grains, particles or natural beads |
| ELEMIS loves | Pro-Collagen Tri-Acid Peel |
NEW Pro-Collagen Glow Boost Exfoliator |
| How it works |
Formulated with an 8% Tri-Acid Complex of Lactobionic, Asiatic and Mandelic Acids. The concentrated formula is clinically proven* to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles whilst improving the appearance of skin tone and luminosity. *Independent User Trials 2019. Results based on 31 people over 4 weeks. |
Gentle exfoliating cellulose beads are used along with nourishing oils and rose and mimosa waxes to lift away dead skin, revealing irresistibly smooth, soft and supple skin. 100% of users agreed that their skin felt gently polished, supple, softer and brighter. *Independent User Trials April 2022. Results based on 54 people over 4 weeks & Independent User Trials September 2022. Results based on 50 people over 2 weeks. |
| Frequency | 1x per week |
2-3x per week |
Pro Tip
Apply Pro-Collagen Tri-Acid Peel once a week (for example, on Sunday) to gently loosen dead skin cells. Then use Pro-Collagen Glow Boost Exfoliator twice a week (say, Tuesday and Thursday) to polish away surface buildup, leaving your skin soft, radiant, and glowing.