Isn’t it frustrating when you’re all set for a fun night out, your makeup look is in your head, but your skin decides to act up? Flaky patches and clogged pores can ruin what was supposed to be a flawless base. Luckily, there’s a way around this and it’s called exfoliation. It might be a broadly-used term but there are nuances to it.
Our skin naturally renews itself every 30 to 35 days, but sometimes it needs a little help. Without regular exfoliation, dead cells can accumulate, leading to dull skin, enlarged pores, acne, and fine lines. Depending on your skin type, there are a series of different ways to exfoliate. And no, I don’t mean that St.Ives Walnut Scrub we all collectively used from 2006 to 2012.
Choosing Your Tools Wisely
There are several ways to exfoliate, but not all methods are suitable for every skin type. Understanding the different techniques and their benefits will help you avoid common pitfalls like over-exfoliation or irritation.
Physical Exfoliation: This involves physically scrubbing the skin with brushes, sponges, or scrubs. It’s a go-to for many because of its instant gratification – slough off those dead cells right away! However, for those with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea, this might be too harsh.
Chemical Exfoliation: Sounds harsh, but it’s often gentler than its physical counterpart. Chemical exfoliators use acids like AHAs and BHAs to dissolve the glue that binds dead cells to the skin surface. AHAs are your friend if you have dry skin, while BHAs are perfect for oilier types prone to breakouts and deep pore cleansing.
Enzymatic Exfoliation: The gentlest form of exfoliation uses natural enzymes to break down dead skin cells. It’s ideal for those with very sensitive skin as it doesn’t disrupt the skin’s natural pH or moisture barrier. It basically tidies up your skin’s surface without any roughness.
Customising Your Exfoliation Routine Based On Your Skin Type
Now, how do you pick which one works for you? It’s pretty simple. Your skin type dictates how you should exfoliate and here’s a quick guide:
Dry Skin: Steer clear of harsh physical exfoliation. AHAs like glycolic acid are your best bet for removing dead surface cells without stripping moisture. Remember to moisturise and use SPF afterward, since these acids can make your skin more sun-sensitive.
Sensitive Skin: Skip abrasive scrubs. Opt for a mild chemical exfoliator and apply it with a soft washcloth. Consult a dermatologist for treatments like salicylic acid peels that target acne without irritation.
Oily Skin: Embrace more frequent physical exfoliation or brushing to manage excess oil and buildup. Be gentle to avoid triggering more oil production. When it comes to oily skin, double cleansing also does wonders.
Normal Skin: You have the freedom to experiment with both physical and chemical exfoliation. Find what works best for you through trial and error. You can use a face scrub or an acid, your pick, but make sure you keep a gap of a few days before using the two!
Combination Skin: A balanced approach works best. I usually go in with an exfoliating face wash and top it up with a chemical exfoliant. I will say that, enzymatic exfoliation works best for this type of skin.
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
Less is often more with exfoliation. For most skin types, once or twice a week is sufficient. Oily skin may handle a bit more frequent exfoliation, but always monitor how your skin reacts and adjust accordingly. Over-exfoliation can lead to sensitivity and damage, so if you’re unsure, I recommend consulting a dermatologist.
It’s all about finding the right balance for your skin type, using the correct tools, and not overdoing it. Exfoliation, when done right, can transform your skin. So, ready, set, exfoliate!
Featured Image: Pexels
