The Right Way to Exfoliate: A Skincare Guide
Skin exfoliation has become a cornerstone of many skincare routines—and for good reason. Proper exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells from the epidermis, promoting smoother texture, clearer pores, and enhanced product absorption. However, when done incorrectly, exfoliating can damage your skin’s natural barrier and lead to irritation. That’s why understanding how to exfoliate based on your skin type is essential for maintaining healthy, glowing skin.
What Is Exfoliation?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), this process can be beneficial when performed correctly and sparingly. When done too often or with the wrong products, exfoliation can cause redness, inflammation, or even disrupt the skin’s moisture barrier.
Know Your Skin Type Before You Exfoliate
Your skin type plays a critical role in determining how often—and what kind of—exfoliant you should use. The AAD identifies five primary skin types:
Sensitive skin – Prone to irritation and may sting or burn after applying certain products.
Normal skin – Balanced and not prone to sensitivity.
Dry skin – Often feels tight, flaky, or rough.
Oily skin – Appears shiny or greasy, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin).
Combination skin – Features a mix of dry and oily areas, usually oily in the T-zone.
Chemical vs. Physical Exfoliants: What’s the Difference?
There are two main categories of exfoliants:
Chemical exfoliants use mild acids—like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs)—to dissolve dead skin cells without physical scrubbing.
Physical exfoliants use textured materials such as scrubs, brushes, or sponges to manually remove dead cells.
Best Exfoliant by Skin Type
Oily or normal skin may tolerate gentle physical exfoliation, such as a soft brush or sugar-based scrub.
Sensitive, dry, or combination skin typically responds better to mild chemical exfoliants, which are less abrasive and less likely to cause microtears.
Avoid using harsh scrubs like those with large, non-dissolving particles (e.g., crushed walnut shells or rough beads), which can damage the skin’s surface. Instead, opt for scrubs that dissolve upon use, like sugar scrubs, or choose well-formulated chemical exfoliants with low concentrations of AHAs or BHAs.
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
Start slow. Most dermatologists recommend exfoliating once per week, gradually increasing to no more than twice per week depending on your skin’s tolerance. Over-exfoliating can strip your skin of its natural oils and weaken the protective barrier.
Always follow exfoliation with a moisturizer to replenish hydration and support the skin’s recovery. For best results, consult a licensed dermatologist or skincare provider to personalize your regimen.
Final Thoughts
Exfoliation is a powerful tool when tailored to your skin type and used responsibly. Whether you’re targeting clogged pores, dullness, or dry patches, understanding the right type and frequency of exfoliation can help you achieve healthier, more radiant skin—safely.
Reference
American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.-a). How to safely exfoliate at home. American Academy of Dermatology. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/safely-exfoliate-at-home
