Apr 13, 2024 | 1 min read | 0 Comments

How Often Should You Exfoliate Your Skin?

When it comes to a standard skincare routine, cleansing and moisturizing often take center stage. Yet, for those seeking the elusive glow and optimal skin health, there's a game-changer: exfoliation.

But how much is too much, and is your current routine cutting it?

Let's dive into the benefits, types of exfoliants, and the best products for your skin type and routine.

Why is exfoliating important?

Exfoliation is like hitting the reset button for your skin. It sweeps away dead skin cells that have been building up on the surface, helps unclog pores, evens out texture and tone, and encourages the growth of new, healthier skin cells.

Beyond the aesthetic perks, exfoliation can also boost the effectiveness of your other skincare products by allowing newly generated cells to better absorb and respond to skincare ingredients.

Physical vs. chemical exfoliation

Understanding the difference between physical and chemical exfoliation is key in tailoring your skincare routine.

Physical exfoliation: Physical exfoliation, or mechanical exfoliation, manually removes dead skin cells using abrasive substances like scrubs or textured pads. These products often contain ingredients like salt, sugar, or shells to buff away dead cells from the skin's surface.

Chemical exfoliation: These exfoliants use acids like AHAs or BHAs to dissolve dead skin cells. Generally gentler than physical exfoliants, they can also be more effective. Common ingredients include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid.

How often should I exfoliate?

Dermatologists often suggest exfoliating one to three times a week, but those with sensitive skin may find success with a less frequent schedule, like once every two weeks.

People with oily skin types or mature skin may experiment with more frequent exfoliation, always monitoring for signs of irritation.