Ingredients
What is the difference between chemical exfoliants and physical exfoliants?
Chemical exfoliants use enzymes or acids, like glycolic and lactic acid, to dissolve bonds between dead skin cells and new cells, helping to reveal fresh, glowing skin. However, overusing acids can lead to irritation and inflammation. In GLOW and SCRUB, we use a gentle dose of glycolic and lactic acids derived from sugar cane, sugar maple, and bilberry. Calming chamomile and anti-inflammatory turmeric keep GLOW effective yet soothing for even sensitive skin. Physical exfoliants use particles to physically lift away dead cells. While some, like crushed nut shells, can be overly abrasive, SCRUB uses finely-milled, uniformly shaped bamboo silica to provide a safe and gentle polish without harming the skin.
Is exfoliation right for you?
For those who prefer a minimalist approach, exfoliation might not be necessary. However, those in urban environments can benefit from weekly or bi-weekly exfoliation to clear away pollutants and dead skin buildup. You can patch-test GLOW on your inner arm. A light tingle is expected due to plant-based AHAs, but it should not burn or cause discomfort. If you’re new to exfoliants, start with just a few minutes of masking and gradually increase to a full 20 minutes.
How does GLOW prevent premature aging?
While collagen itself cannot penetrate the skin due to its large molecular size, GLOW features glycolic acid derived from sugarcane, a small molecule that can penetrate the outer skin layers. This glycolic acid stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen, helping to maintain smoothness, firmness, and an efficient renewal and repair process. By encouraging collagen production, GLOW helps prevent signs of premature aging, keeping the skin resilient and youthful.
How many times a week should you use GLOW?
With exfoliation, less is more. While a luminous complexion is desirable, the pursuit of overly smooth "glass skin" can actually be damaging. Hyper-smooth, plastic-like skin can indicate an impaired lipid barrier, leading to inflammation. Excessive exfoliation can degrade essential elastin and collagen, so using GLOW just once or twice a week is the ideal approach to safely support healthy cellular turnover and collagen production without compromising the skin's protective barrier.
What is skin-cycling, and does this include GLOW?
Skin-cycling is a balanced approach to skincare that alternates between treatment and rest nights to prevent overuse of active ingredients, allowing the skin time to recover. GLOW fits perfectly into a skin-cycling routine as an exfoliation treatment on "night 1," or the designated treatment night. For our full LINNÉ Skin-Cycling Protocol, read here.