Exfoliate. Buff. Shine. Understanding the difference between exfoliants and who needs to use them.

Exfoliate. Buff. Shine.

Understanding the difference between exfoliants and who needs to use them.

 An Interview with Loshen's Owner & Skincare Pro, Sarah M.

We are all as unique as a fingerprint, and our skin is not a one size fits all . Genetics, environmental conditions, medications, nutritional supplements, hormonal changes such as pregnancy and menopause and more, factor into the changes of our skin. Different stages of our lives require different skin care protocols. 

This month we interview our founder and skincare professional Sarah Maude Cabana. She has over 15 years of experience in the skincare industry and great passion for educating people on the skin and how to care for it.  I have immense respect for Sarah and her depth of knowledge and she’s my go-to expert as my skin matures and changes. 

In this interview we barely scratch the surface of using retinoids, acids, vitamin C and exfoliants, as these exfoliants can be quite confusing of what to use, who can use it and how. However, we do get a basic understanding of these principles and a few tips from our in-house skincare professional. 

L&C: Sarah, this is exciting! You’re being interviewed for your own company! Usually, you’re the one doing the interviewing. You recently began showcasing skincare professionals on your personal Instagram account once a month. What inspired you to do this and what do you hope people will learn from it?

SM: I started my career as an aesthetician in a big spa and later on as a laser technician. I transitioned from providing skin care treatments to being a business consultant (sales rep) and educator. I began to see that marketing was playing a huge role in setting high expectations for consumers and wanted to properly educate them on how the skin and products work together to get the best results.  

L&C: What is the philosophy of Loshen & Crem and why is this important to you?

SM: Integrity. Education. Customization. Experience.

We believe in achieving healthy skin through regular skin care practices. We respect our customer’s philosophy when it comes to their skin routine. Some people like a three step routine and others prefer ten steps. We help them customize what  based on their personal preferences, needs and goals by educating them. 

We also believe in the philosophy of Waste Not, Want Not. We help customers to utilize their products effectively. Sometimes they’ve purchased a brand from somewhere else that we don’t carry and maybe the customer doesn’t like the product. We help to find the best way to get the most out of the product without having to waste it. 

L&C: In the beauty and skincare industry anti-aging seems to be on the forefront of people’s skin goals. You are ANTI anti-aging. What do you mean by that and how do we begin to shift that perspective and embrace aging gracefully?

SM: I’m always working on trying to shift that perspective through education, and my vision is reflected in the Loshen branding. We use our own models for our images and work closely with a local photographer Emilie, who shares the same vision. 

The word ANTI means to be against something and in skincare this is impossible, we’re not Benjamin Button!

We believe in healthy aging, and empower people to do that in a way that works for them. We are not against fillers and botox, in fact they can work very well with a skin care routine. They are injectables which means they have nothing to do with skin health, but can smooth wrinkles and plump up areas that skincare cannot. Healthy, glowing skin requires tender loving care.  

I believe it’s a privilege to age and one that is not afforded to everyone. We should embrace the process with grace. 

L&C: Retinoids, Vitamin C, AHA, and Enzymes are hyped up in marketing and celebrity endorsements but can be misleading if we think we need them when we don’t. Can you explain the difference between these, what they are best used for and the importance of consulting a skincare professional prior to using?

SM: Not everyone needs to exfoliate on a weekly basis. Retinoids are popular due to their effectiveness, but remember 40 years ago it was created for people with acne. They discovered that it was also effective for exfoliating and regenerating the cells. I would recommend retinoids or any Vitamin A skincare for people with deep, deep, deep, wrinkles and thick skin, or those with acne with controlled inflammation. 

Vitamin C is a great antioxidant and preventative for younger skin. It gives a nice glow but it’s not a great choice for those with sensitive skin and rosacea due to its active ingredients.

AHA helps exfoliate by loosening the buildup of dead cells and sebum on the surface of the skin. However, it should be used cautiously with reactive and sensitive skin.

These first three exfoliants may require time for the skin to adapt, so build tolerance slowly by using every other day to start. 

Enzymes are the most gentle type of exfoliant for almost all skin types. 

L&C: If someone has an inflammatory reaction to a product, what is the best thing they can do to repair the skin and reduce painful inflammation?

SM: A cold water compress is the best place to start. I always keep  cryo sticks from Biologique Recherche in the fridge to help reduce inflammation of puffiness. Most importantly, stop exfoliating until the inflammation has gone away, which can take up to a month or more. Use products that don’t have active ingredients and are moisturizing and hydrating to the skin. 

L&C: I already know your answer to this next question, but I’m going to let you preach the gospel. Take us to church, Sarah! 

What is the one thing you recommend for all skin types in prevention of skin damage and skin aging?

SM: SUN PROTECTION! A good quality broad spectrum sun protection will use a good antioxidant which will protect the skin from sun damage and free radical damage. If there is one product that people of all ages can use, it is sun protection. Apply daily as the last step in your skincare routine and reapply every two hours when outdoors.

L&C: I always marvel at how much I learn from you everyday. Thank you, Sarah.You're a great mentor! 

SM: Thank you! I just want to bring the right information forward so people can make educated decisions for their skin.

Well, there it is folks. Our in-house skin care professional has shed some light on exfoliants and the basics of how to use them. At Loshen & Crem we're dedicated to your skin health and education is always the first step in any skincare routine.  


Sun Protection recommendations:


BR - Protection U.V. (non-sensitive skin) : SPF 25


Hydropeptide Solar Defense Tinted  SPF 30 (All skin type even for oily skin)


EltaMD - UV Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 46 (Sensitive, Rosacea, Acne)


ColorScience Lips and Reapplication


Shop Loshen & Crem for  a full range of products. 


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