Gommage: The French exfoliation technique you need to try
Gommage is a renowned French exfoliation procedure that is rapidly gaining favor across the world. The word "gommage" literally translates to "erasing" or "exfoliation," and it has been in use since the 1700s. Modern gommage consists of a mixture of products that exfoliate your skin using enzymes and scrubbing. It removes dead skin cells and encourages skin cell development.
Physical scrubs use beads to remove dead skin cells. Similarly, chemical exfoliants contain ingredients like lactic acid, glycolic acid and others. However, for some people, both methods have proven to be harsh, leading to irritation and redness. This is where gommage comes in. It is gentle and mild and scrubs off dead skin without putting any extra pressure of the skin.
Gommage is suitable for most adults, except those suffering from certain skin conditions. This technique is especially wonderful for people with sensitive skin as it does not pull and stretch the skin as much. Also, unlike other exfoliants, gommage does not play on the idea of removing a layer of skin to reveal softer skin. All these things have led to its popularity.
A gommage exfoliant typically comes in gel form. The application process is as follows: Apply the product to your face. Let it dry. It may take up to 10 minutes to fully dry and form a crust. Now massage it. You will see little balls forming on your skin which are essentially grabbing dead skin. Wipe off with a moist towel or rinse it.
Gommage delivers similar benefits as any other exfoliant. Besides sloughing off dead cells, it unclogs pores, stimulates collagen production, and controls acne. Physical exfoliants tend to damage the skin barrier and leave micro-tears on the skin. Gommage also promotes the growth of new cells, giving you younger-looking skin. This technique also helps your skin to absorb other products better.
Although there aren't many side effects of the process, it does take a lot of time as opposed to any other exfoliation methods. People suffering from psoriasis, rosacea, sunburn, or any kind of infection should also stay away from this treatment. Plant-based enzymes are frequently used in gommage exfoliant formulas. So examine the product for any known allergies to any fruits or plants.
