Exfoliation, removing dead skin cells, is an essential element of skin health. Proper and consistent exfoliation can make a huge difference in your appearance.

For OILY skin, cells that should be shed regularly are often held back. Oil works as an adhesive that can clog pores. Exfoliating regularly can encourage a normal flow of oil - and eliminate clogged pores.

For DRY skin, shedding dead cells allows moisturizers to penetrate the skin better. This also makes room for newer smoother layers of skin cells to be revealed.

For sun-damaged skin, exfoliating helps removed thickened skin cells. This defensive thickening of the skin can make wrinkles appear deeper, as well as cause discoloration. When you remove this outer layer of thickened skin it looks smoother, healthier and more evenly toned.

Did you know that alpha hydroxy acids are derived from plants? It's their acids that act as mild exfoliants. Glycolic acid (one of he best alpha hydroxy acids) is derived from sugar cane juice, sugar beets, and grapes.

Some cosmetic scientists consider glycolic acid superior to other alpha hydroxy acids because it may penetrate the skin's outer layers more efficiently. It's certainly benefited from over 15 years of research. In fact there's even been research showing that using glycolic acid can improve the appearance of skin discolorations, increase collagen production, and reinforce the barrier function of the skin.

When applied topically, it breaks apart the bonds that hold skin cells together, allowing dead cells to be shed making way for new ones underneath.

Any improvement to the skin, short of plastic surgery, takes time.. no matter what you're promised. You have to use a good alpha hydroxy product consistently for several weeks to experience your skin's enhancement.

Did you know that Cleopatra bathed in sour milk (lactic acid) and would occasionally wash her face in red wine (tartaric acid) to keep her skin smooth and youthful?

VERY GOOD TO KNOW. always wear a full spectrum SPF moisturizer when using an alpha hydroxy product. You're removing dead cells and exposing new ones. They're more vulnerable to damage and you certainly don't want to give yourself new wrinkles.