Reviewed by Dr. Chad Gilliam PA
Reading time: four minutes
“I know I should exfoliate, but do I do it every day? What products should I use? What’s the difference between physical exfoliation and chemical exfoliation?”
Have you asked these questions before? You’re not alone! Exfoliation is an important step in any skincare routine, but it can be confusing to navigate.
In this blog, we’ll break down the basics of exfoliation and give you tips on how often and how to exfoliate for a glowing, healthy complexion.
The Importance of Exfoliation
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. These dead skin cells can build up and clog pores, leading to a dull complexion, breakouts, and even premature aging.
Benefits of Regular Exfoliation
Regular exfoliation can:
- Improve skin texture: By removing the outermost layer of dead cells, you can achieve a smoother, softer skin surface.
- Unclog pores: Exfoliating helps to clear out debris and excess oils, particularly beneficial for oily skin types.
- Promote even skin tone: Regular exfoliation can help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more uniform skin tone.
- Improve product absorption: Removing the barrier of dead cells allows skin care products to penetrate more effectively.
Methods of Exfoliation
- Physical Exfoliation
Physical exfoliants act on the surface of the skin using friction to physically remove dead skin cells. This can be done with scrubs, brushes, or exfoliating gloves.
What to look for in physical exfoliants:
- Gentle ingredients: Avoid harsh scrubs with large, irregular particles that can cause micro-tearing on the skin.
- Recommendations: Detoxifying scrub mask from SkinBetter Science or the Exfoliating Polish from Zo Skin Health.
- Chemical Exfoliation
Chemical exfoliants reach deeper layers of the skin to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed.
What to look for in chemical exfoliants:
- Active ingredients: Look for ingredients like alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs), enzymes, or retinoids.
- Recommendations: AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser from SkinMedica, Exfoliation Excelerator from Zo Skin Health or the AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads from SkinBetter Science.
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
For most skin types, exfoliating 2–3 times a week is generally recommended. However, this can vary:
- Sensitive Skin: Once a week to avoid irritation.
- Oily Skin: Up to 3 times a week to manage excess oil.
- Dry Skin: 1–2 times per week, preferably using a milder alpha hydroxy acid.
- Combination Skin: 2–3 times a week, focusing on different areas with the appropriate type of exfoliant.
- Mature Skin: 2–3 times a week to maintain a youthful glow.
Consequences of Over Exfoliation
Over exfoliating can compromise your skin barrier, leading to:
- Redness and irritation
- Increased sensitivity
- Dryness and flakiness
- Breakouts due to imbalanced skin
Ask Our Experts
The key to effective exfoliation is understanding your skin type and choosing the right types of exfoliants.
Our aestheticians here at Madison Wellness and Aesthetic Center can help you determine the best exfoliation routine for your skin. Book a consultation for a Visia Skin Analysis Facial Scan to assess your skin and receive personalized recommendations.
Call (256) 722-0555 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form. We are located at 844 Slaughter Rd. Suite A in Madison, AL. If you are in the area, stop by and see the products that we have in store!
FAQs About Exfoliation
For the face, daily exfoliation is generally not recommended as it can lead to excessive exfoliation. This can weaken the skin barrier, causing redness, irritation, and increased sensitivity.
Body skin tends to be less sensitive than facial skin, so it can handle more frequent exfoliation. Exfoliating 2–3 times a week is generally safe. Everyone’s skin is different; proceed with caution and listen to your skin’s reactions.
Pay attention to your skin’s reactions. If you experience redness, irritation, dryness, or breakouts after exfoliating, it could be a sign that you are overdoing it. It is recommended to cut back on exfoliation and slowly reintroduce it once your skin has had time to heal.
Also, if you notice any signs of thinning skin or an increase in fine lines and wrinkles, this could also be a result of over exfoliation. Seek advice from an aesthetician or dermatologist for personalized recommendations.
Yes, it is possible to overdo chemical exfoliation. It’s important to follow the recommended usage and frequency for each product and listen to your skin’s reactions. If you experience excessive dryness, irritation, or redness, it may be a sign to cut back on chemical exfoliants.
