Choosing the Right Exfoliant for Every Client………. Exfoliation is one of the most important steps in any treatment room or home-care routine. It removes dead skin cells, improves product penetration, boosts cell turnover, and helps correct concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, texture, and dullness. But not all exfoliation works the same. As professionals, we need to understand the three main forms of exfoliation so we can choose the safest and most effective option for every client. The three forms are: ✨ Manual (Physical) ✨ Mechanical (Device-Based) ✨ Chemical (Acids & Enzymes) Each method works differently, targets different skin types, and comes with different precautions. ⸻ ✍🏽 Key Takeaways ✔ Manual exfoliation uses the hands and textured products to remove dead cells. ✔ Mechanical exfoliation uses tools or machines for deeper resurfacing. ✔ Chemical exfoliation uses acids or enzymes to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. ✔ Over-exfoliation can damage the skin barrier and cause inflammation. ✔ Skin type, condition, and lifestyle determine which exfoliation is best. ✔ Not every client needs the same level of exfoliation. ✔ Professional results start with proper skin analysis. ⸻ 📋 Quick Notes — Copy + Paste Manual Exfoliation = hands + textured products Examples: scrubs, gommage, polishing powders, konjac sponges Mechanical Exfoliation = tools + devices Examples: microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, ultrasonic spatula Chemical Exfoliation = acids + enzymes Examples: AHAs, BHAs, PHAs, enzymes, light peels Best Practice: Match exfoliation type to skin type, sensitivity, and concern. Protect the barrier + always follow with SPF when using chemical exfoliants. ⸻ 🧠 Think Like an Esthetician Before exfoliating, ask: • Is the skin sensitive or resilient? • Is the client acne-prone or barrier-compromised? • Are we treating texture, pigment, congestion, or aging? • Will this exfoliation help — or stress — the skin? The goal isn’t to exfoliate more.

Because men’s skin isn’t “low-maintenance” — it actually needs facials more often than women’s. If your male clients are only coming in occasionally, you’re missing a huge opportunity — for results and revenue. How Often Should Men Get Facials? Every 3–4 weeks. Men produce more oil, have thicker skin, and shave regularly — all of which makes their skin more reactive and prone to congestion, ingrowns, and irritation. That’s why men are some of the ideal clients for estheticians: they respond fast when treated correctly and, once educated, stay loyal. FAQ for Estheticians About Men’s Skin Q: Is men’s skin more sensitive? A: Yes — shaving constantly disrupts the skin barrier, making it reactive. Q: Do men break out more? A: Often — higher sebum + dead skin + inconsistent homecare = congestion. Q: Can men handle stronger treatments? A: Sometimes — but only after calming inflammation and prepping the skin. Q: Why do men see results faster? A: Thicker skin responds quickly when treated consistently and correctly. Why Men Are High-Value Clients - They need consistent care → recurring appointments - Quick, visible results → client loyalty - Corrective treatments = higher-ticket services - Often underserved → opportunity to educate and dominate this niche 💡 Skin Edu Community Challenge: Start thinking about how you position facials for men in your business. Share your experiences, your FAQs, and any tips you have for converting male clients into loyal, repeat clients. Let’s get the word out — men need facials too.