Gommage Is the Exfoliation Method You Didn't Know You Needed

You may be familiar with mechanical and chemical exfoliation, but did you know it’s possible to combine the two methods? Yes, there’s a happy medium between the two categories, and we’re here to share the details. What exfoliation technique are we referring to? Gommage—a method for soft, smooth skin that originated in France. Want to know more about this revived skin care technique? Read on to learn all about gommage and why you should try it for yourself.

WHAT IS GOMMAGE?

Like we mentioned, gommage is an age-old French exfoliation technique that’s recently been brought back into the limelight. Gommage actually refers to both the type of product used to exfoliate your skin, as well as the method of exfoliation itself. Known for being a gentler method for sloughing your skin, gommage comes from the French word “gomer” which translates to “erase.” Just as you’d expect your exfoliation process to, the technique erases dead skin cells and buildup from your complexion. Oh, and did we mention this method of exfoliation can be used on both your face and body? Pretty cool, right?

HOW DOES GOMMAGE WORK?

Gommage can come in the form of a cream, liquid, or paste. The product is formulated with enzymes (chemical exfoliation) as well as ingredients that ball up and separate upon exposure to oxygen and oils on your skin (mechanical exfoliation). The enzymes break down the buildup of proteins on your complexion (dead skin cells) while the rubbing of the product onto your skin causes it to pill, exfoliate, and erase away.

WHO IS GOMMAGE GOOD FOR?

So, who is gommage good for? We touched on it earlier, but gommage is known to be a gentler exfoliation option. Since no harsh rubbing is needed when using gommage to exfoliate your skin—the product practically does all the work itself—it’s ideal for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin.

HOW TO DO THE GOMMAGE EXFOLIATION METHOD

Want to give gommage a try? All you need is your gommage product, your fingertips, and a few minutes. Here’s what to do.

Step #1. Apply your gommage product. Smooth a thin layer of your gommage exfoliator onto clean, dry skin.

Step #2. Exfoliate away. After waiting a few seconds, begin to massage the product over your skin in circular motions. Watch the product work its magic as it rolls up and falls away from your skin. Continue until every last bit disappears from your skin.

Step #3. Ogle at your beautiful complexion. Yes—that’s it! No need to rinse. Stare in awe at your smooth, exfoliated skin. Talk about fuss-free!

HOW TO ADD GOMMAGE TO YOUR SKIN CARE ROUTINE

Now that you have the low down on gommage and the wonders it can do for exfoliating your skin, you may be wondering how to put your knowledge to use as a step in your skin care routine. Follow the steps below, and thank us later.

STEP #1: CLEANSE YOUR SKIN

When it comes to cleansing your skin, let’s keep things simple by sticking to no-rinse options, shall we? A micellar water is the perfect pick, as it’s also gentle. Saturate a cotton pad with the L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof - All Skin Types, and gently wipe it over your face to cleanse your skin.

STEP #2: PUT YOUR GOMMAGE SKILLS TO THE TEST

You know what to do—use the above to put your gommage product to use and erase dead skin cells from your complexion.

STEP #3: APPLY A SERUM

Next, show your skin some TLC by smoothing on a face serum. Give the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum, which helps boost radiance and reduce wrinkles, a try.

STEP #4: AND AN EYE CREAM

Your under-eyes could use some extra love too. Help combat dark circles and increase brightness by patting on the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone Anti-Aging Eye Brightener Paraben Free with your index finger.

STEP #5: SMOOTH ON A MOISTURIZER

As the last step in any skin care routine, you’ll want to seal in hydration with a moisturizer. Apply the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone Fragrance Free Face Moisturizer to do just that.

Next: Sugar Scrubs: What Are They and How to Use Them