Exfoliation in skincare is the process of removing dead cells from the surface of our skin. With so many face scrub options available, you may be wondering how to properly exfoliate your skin. Well, this post will answer all your questions.

Let’s start with the basics. Did you know that there are two main types of exfoliation: mechanical exfoliation and chemical exfoliation?

Mechanical exfoliation involves physically rubbing the skin with a scrub, dry brush, or other skin care device used to exfoliate. For example, you may have used a facial scrub as part of your skincare routine or during a facial. Most scrubs are liquid, but you can also find exfoliating ingredients in cleansers, face creams, and more. 

Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, makes use of salicylic acid, glycolic acid (alpha-hydroxy acid), or other enzymes that can chemically break down surface debris. Chemical exfoliants are available in a variety of concentrations. Typically, over-the-counter exfoliants are gentler than professional medical-grade peels. 

Defining Exfoliation

Whether you are employing a physical or chemical exfoliation, the primary purpose of exfoliation is to remove the buildup of dead cells from the skin’s surface. Removing dead skin cells is very important as the skin’s natural ability to shed dead cells decreases with age. Therefore, the complexion can grow increasingly dull as we age. Exfoliating regularly will also help other products work better since they don’t have to cut through a lot of buildup on the skin.

The Basics:  How To Exfoliate Your Face

While there are many benefits of exfoliation, there is no single method that is right for everyone. Therefore, before you exfoliate your skin, you should know what skin type you have. Above all, special skin diseases such as rosacea and hypersensitivity must be taken into account. All types of peels may not work for all skin types, and some skin types tolerate more frequent exfoliation better than other types. If you suffer from skin problems, you should consult a dermatologist or even avoid peeling altogether.

Below is a step-by-step guide that will help you set up an exfoliation routine at home.

Step 1: Choose the Right Products

Choosing the right product to exfoliate is a crucial step. In addition to your skin type, you should also consider which part of your body you want to exfoliate. You should not use an exfoliating product designed for the body on the sensitive skin of your face and vice versa. Rough regions such as elbows or heels may need a special care product.

Remember that depending on many factors (environment, weather, hormones, diet, and more), your facial skin can go from dry to oily or normal to sensitive. Therefore, you may need to change products accordingly. 

Step 2: Apply Exfoliating Products Properly

If you choose to use a physical exfoliation such as a natural face scrub, apply to a clean, dry face, avoiding sensitive areas such as the eye area. If you’re using a chemical-based exfoliant like a serum, massage in a few drops before applying a moisturizer.

Step 3: Work The Exfoliator

If you’re using a face scrub, massage it into the skin with damp fingers. If you’re using a chemical exfoliator, massage the product evenly into the skin with dry fingers. Always avoid the eye area, which is especially sensitive.

Step 4: Wash Off Properly

If you’re using a facial scrub, rinse your face with warm water until it’s removed. However, a chemical peel should be left in place. Give it several minutes to soak in and work its magic before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Moisturize Appropriately

It is very important to apply a moisturizer to your skin immediately after exfoliating as this will help prevent damage and keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Choose a facial oil, lotion, or moisturizer of your choice and massage it into your skin. And remember to use sunscreen, as exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity.

Related – 5 Best Natural Ingredients to Exfoliate your Skin

How Often Should You Exfoliate Skin?

The jury is still out on this question. While exfoliation is an important step in your skincare regimen, the frequency with which you should exfoliate depends fully on your individual skin. 

Another great way to get the benefits of exfoliation every day without damaging your skin is to use a gentle, natural cleanser with exfoliants. Remember to use a body moisturizer or body oil afterward, as well as sunscreen, because the fresh skin after exfoliation is more vulnerable to harmful UV rays.

Signs and Signals of Over-Exfoliation

How do you know you’re over-exfoliating your skin? The following are some signs that you are over-exfoliating your skin.

Dry, Flaky Skin

Over-exfoliating causes dry skin because it strips away the skin’s natural oils, which keep it healthy and hydrated. It wicks moisture and leaves skin looking dry and flaky. Extremely dry and scaly skin can even lead to wrinkles and lines. To alleviate this condition, use a good moisturizer or serum.

Increase in Breakouts

Because exfoliation damages the skin’s protective barrier, it makes the skin more susceptible to bacterial infections. This leads to an increase in acne breakouts.

In this case, you should stop exfoliating and switch to gentler products. Make sure your skincare products don’t contain any harmful chemicals to avoid the side effects of exfoliation. Opt for organic and natural skin care products, like The Ayurved Co’s Night Facial Oil which locks in moisture and gives flawless skin.

Irritation or Redness

Exfoliating too often or too vigorously can cause skin irritation, redness, inflammation, or a burning sensation. Subsequently, your skin becomes very sensitive and reacts to any product you use.

If you experience this effect, opt for softer products and use rich emollients. Also, you should be extra careful when your skin is wet to avoid rubbing your skin as much as possible.

If your skin condition does not improve, consult your dermatologist.

The right exfoliation will enhance your glow and give you healthy, youthful skin, but be careful not to overdo it. Excessive skin peeling can lead to the very skin conditions you are trying to treat.

Related blog – 7 Advantages of Skin Exfoliation