Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the outer layers of the skin. It can be beneficial for removing dry or dull skin, increasing blood circulation, and brightening and improving your skin’s appearance.
What to and how to?
There are different methods and tools to exfoliate your skin. Facial scrubs and brushes are forms of mechanical, or physical, exfoliation. Acids and skin peels are forms of chemical exfoliation.
Mechanical
Exfoliating Brush: This is usually a bristle brush used on the face or body to remove layers of dead skin cells. Some are designed for dry brushing. Others can be used with your facial cleanser or body wash
Exfoliation Sponge: These are a gentler way to exfoliate your skin. You can lather an exfoliating sponge with warm water, soap or body wash in the shower.
Exfoliating Glove: If you find brushes or sponges difficult to grip, you can use a glove. Lather it with soap or body wash in the shower. They can be effective for large areas such as legs or arms.
Exfoliating Scrub: This can be applied directly to the skin using a gentle, circular motion. You can wash your skin with warm water after applying the scrub.
Chemical
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Examples of AHAs include glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric acids. These work by breaking apart bonds holding dull and dead skin cells on your skin’s surface. This will cause your skin to naturally shed dead particles.
Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Examples of BHAs include beta-hydroxy and salicylic acid. These may be better for acne-prone skin.
How to Exfoliate According to Your Skin Type
When mechanically exfoliating, it’s important to be gentle on your skin. You can make small, circular motions using your finger to apply a scrub or use your exfoliating tool of choice.
If you use a brush, make short, light strokes. Exfoliate for about 30 seconds and then rinse off with lukewarm — not hot — water. Avoid exfoliating if your skin has cuts, open wounds, or is sunburned. Apply a moisturizer with SPF after exfoliating.
Dry Skin
Exfoliation is important for dry or flaky skin. Avoid mechanical exfoliation on dry skin, because the process is drying and it can lead to microtears. AHAs are effective for dry skin.
Glycolic acid will help remove dead cells sitting on the surface of the skin and encourage healthy skin turnover. Follow up with an SPF and moisturizer after using glycolic acid. It can make the skin more prone to sun damage.
Sensitive Skin
Avoid scrubbing or using mechanical methods of exfoliation. These will irritate your skin further and can lead to redness.
Use a mild chemical exfoliator and apply with a gentle washcloth. For acne, you can also try a salicylic acid peel at your dermatologist’s office.
Oily Skin
Oily or thicker skin can benefit from manual exfoliation and brushing. Oily skin may have an extra layer of buildup on the surface that manual exfoliation can remove. Gently use an exfoliator or scrub in circular motions for best results.
Normal Skin
If your skin doesn’t have any complications, you can choose any method of exfoliation. Manual and chemical exfoliation is both safe for this skin type. You may need to experiment to find out which method works best for your skin.
Combination Skin
Combination skin may require a mix of mechanical and chemical exfoliation. Never use both on the same day as it can irritate the skin. If your skin feels dry after exfoliation, use a moisturizer immediately after.
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