What is an example of a physical exfoliant?

Microdermabrasion is a form of physical exfoliation that involves physical processes to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This technique typically utilizes tiny crystals or a diamond-tipped wand, which gently abrades the skin's outer layer, effectively sloughing off dead skin and promoting cell turnover. This method is highly effective for improving skin texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and hyperpigmentation, and enhancing overall skin tone.

The other options listed are not considered physical exfoliants. For instance, a chemical peel involves the application of a solution that chemically dissolves dead skin cells and promotes exfoliation through chemical reactions rather than physical scrubbing. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that works as a chemical exfoliant by breaking the bonds between dead skin cells, while enzyme treatments use natural or synthetic enzymes to digest and remove dead skin cells without any physical scrubbing or abrasive action. Therefore, microdermabrasion stands out as a clear example of a physical exfoliant due to its hands-on, mechanical approach to exfoliation.