Why should you exfoliate in the first place?
If your face looks dull or rough, it might be due to a buildup of old, dead skin cells. Normally, your body sheds these cells over a month or two, but this process slows down as you get older.
The good news is that regular exfoliation can speed up this skin cell turnover, leading to brighter and smoother skin. Exfoliation can help even out skin tone and fade dark spots by reducing the pigment responsible for discolouration.
Additionally, it may help prevent breakouts by reducing the accumulation of dead skin cells in your pores.
What are the different types of exfoliation?
There are two main methods of exfoliation: physical exfoliation and chemical exfoliation.
In physical exfoliation, old skin is mechanically removed using tools like sponges, brushes, face scrubs, or washcloths. It relies on friction to dislodge dead skin cells from the surface. However, it can be harsh and may irritate the skin, so it is advised to use a gentle scrub.
Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, doesn’t involve rubbing or scrubbing. It utilizes acids like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic, mandelic, and lactic acid, and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. These acids work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be gently peeled away to reveal fresher skin. But, depending on their ingredients and concentration, chemical exfoliants can be too harsh for sensitive skin.
Both methods can benefit your skin, but excessive exfoliation can harm your skin barrier, which is vital for retaining moisture. Choose the right exfoliation routine for your specific needs.
How often you should exfoliate your face?
Finally, here are the answers you’ve been waiting for. You exfoliate your face depending on your skin type. What more should you know about this? Read on:
1. Dry or sensitive skin
In short, starting with exfoliating once a week is a good idea. Exfoliating products can remove dead cells and natural oils, and overdoing them can lead to dryness. If your skin feels fine after a few weeks with no stinging, flaking, or itching, you can gradually increase it to twice a week.
However, if you have very dry skin, it’s best to avoid physical scrubs. The friction can damage your moisture barrier and lead to water loss. People with sensitive or dry skin might tolerate gentle chemical exfoliants like mandelic acid better.
Lactic acid is another option, as it draws moisture from deeper layers, leaving your skin smoother and plumper. What’s equally important is the moisturizer you use afterwards. You can use formulas with ceramides and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to protect your skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
2. Oily or combination skin
To get rid of excess oil and dull dead skin cells, use a chemical exfoliant two to three times a week. Oily skin can generally handle various types of acids, and some individuals may even use them daily because they’re less harsh than physical exfoliants.
When it comes to physical exfoliants, you should still be cautious regardless of your skin type to avoid excessive scrubbing. Fortunately, there are many gentle and effective options available. However, still limit physical exfoliation to once a week.
3. Acne-prone skin
If you’re prone to breakouts, you should be cautious when using potent skincare products, including chemical exfoliants, whether you have dry or oily skin.
While AHAs and BHAs can effectively reduce oil, dirt, and dead skin buildup that leads to blemishes, using them too frequently can harm your skin barrier and potentially cause new breakouts.
People with oily, acne-prone skin might tolerate more frequent use of chemical exfoliants, but it is still necessary to protect the moisture barrier, especially if you’re using prescription acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide.
To start, a once-a-week regimen and monitoring your skin for any signs of inflammation, itchiness, or discomfort is recommended. If there are no adverse effects, you can gradually increase to two or three times a week, on alternate days.
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4. Eczema or rosacea-prone skin
If you have chronic inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, consult a certified dermatologist before attempting exfoliation at home.
People with eczema already have a compromised skin barrier, leading to symptoms like cracking or peeling. Over-exfoliating can trigger flare-ups.
Similarly, individuals prone to rosacea have highly sensitive and easily irritated skin, so excessive exfoliation can worsen redness, burning, and stinging.
However, exfoliants are not entirely off-limits. You can discuss with your skin doctor to provide you with the most suitable options and methods.
What’s the best method for exfoliating your face?
When using physical exfoliation products, apply them on damp skin. Gently use them in circular motions, similar to washing your face, and rinse thoroughly. Avoid dry brushing, as it’s too harsh for sensitive areas like the cheeks, forehead, and eye area.
For chemical exfoliants, apply them on dry skin after cleansing, typically at night. Exfoliating before bedtime supports the skin’s natural repair process by removing the outer layer of dead cells, facilitating the emergence of new skin cells. Exfoliating during the day can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage.
Whether you opt for physical or chemical exfoliation, avoid using strong actives like additional exfoliating acids, acne treatments, retinol, other retinoids, or vitamin C simultaneously, as they can be harsh and increase sensitivity. Also, steer clear of added fragrances which can lead to irritation.
Instead, choose serums and moisturizers containing gentle, hydrating ingredients such as niacinamide, ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid. This approach helps maintain a calm and happy complexion.
If you experience persistent burning, pain, or rash-like symptoms lasting more than a few hours, stop using the products, as they could indicate a potential allergic reaction.
By following this advice and being cautious, you’re more likely to achieve a healthy glow and avoid irritating your skin.
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