How can one categorize mechanical exfoliation?

Mechanical exfoliation is characterized by the physical removal of dead skin cells and debris from the surface of the skin. This form of exfoliation involves techniques or tools that physically slough off the outer layer of skin rather than using chemicals or enzymes to dissolve it.

Microdermabrasion and dermaplaning are two prime examples of mechanical exfoliation methods. Microdermabrasion utilizes fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to gently abrade the skin's surface, improving texture and promoting cell turnover. Dermaplaning involves the use of a surgical scalpel to carefully remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair (peach fuzz), resulting in a smooth complexion.

The inclusion of microdermabrasion and dermaplaning demonstrates that these techniques specifically fit within the categorization of mechanical exfoliation, as they both rely on physical means to achieve exfoliation. Other methods such as granular exfoliation, acid solutions, or enzyme-based exfoliation represent different approaches to exfoliating the skin that do not fall under the mechanical category. Granular exfoliation, for instance, uses physical granules but may not involve the comprehensive techniques associated with microdermabrasion or dermaplaning.