Why Gommages Are Taking Over the Exfoliation Category

Move over exfoliator, there's a new skin savior in town.

By NewBeauty Editors · Oct 25, 2016

In the world of skin care, the act of exfoliation is just as important as the beauty products that you stockpile. Without regular exfoliation, skin can become dull, discolored and lackluster, and imperfections, including lines and wrinkles, can become more evident. While gommages (which translates to “erase” in French) have been around for hundreds of years, as of late, this type of exfoliator has become an “it” product.

The main difference between an exfoliator and a gommage, according to Gigja Wesneski, founder of Root Science, is that a traditional exfoliator utilizes granular ingredients that physically remove dead skin cells and requires the product to be massaged, then rinsed off. “A gommage is typically a gel or cream that utilizes enzymes and acids to break down dead skin cells,” says Wesneski. Gently rubbing your skin will cause the product to turn dead skin into thin rolls of what almost resembles dried glue, ensuring that the dead skin is removed, which you can see with your own eyes!

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Koh Gen Do Soft Gommage Spa Gel ($45)

One of our favorite things about this skin perfector is that it’s loaded with skin-soothing botanicals so that your skin never feels dry, stripped, red or irritated, but rather instantly refreshed.

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Chanel Gommage Maximum Radiance Exfoliating Gel ($45)

When your skin requires a good, deep-down clean, reach for this exfoliating gel. Not only does the gel-cream formula feel so good on your skin, but you’ll also be convinced you just left the spa when you feel how soft and smooth your skin is.

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Skin & CO Roma Truffle Body Gommage ($26)

Gommages aren’t limited to use just on the face. In fact, some of them, like this one, are designed to be used on the body to remove dead, dull skin head to toe.

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Yon Ka Gommage 305 ($44)

Ideal for dry and sensitive skin, this four-in-one exfoliating gel does more than just lift away dead skin. It also clarifies, hydrates and balances your complexion thanks to natural ingredients like carob, seaweed extract and lime essential oil.

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Boscia Exfoliating Peel Gel ($34)

Super easy to use, this lightweight gel removes skin on the surface while simultaneously firming and brightening the outer layer of skin for a complexion that glows.

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Guinot Biological Peeling Radiance Gel ($42)

The ultimate gommage for tackling sensitive skin and effects of aging, this antioxidant-rich one protects against environmental damage and keeps skin perfectly hydrated.