When you go to pick out an exfoliator, it's important to look for expert-approved ingredients. For chemical exfoliators, keep an eye out for glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, as well as lesser-known acids like malic, lactobionic, and mandelic , which increase cell turnover like crazy. Plant enzymes like papaya, pineapple, and pomegranate are also great natural exfoliators for sensitive skin types.
If it's physical exfoliation you're looking for, opt for gentle, natural ingredients less likely to damage the skin, like pumice , poppy seeds , and jojoba beads. Jojoba oil is a natural oil produced from the seed of the chinensis plant, a drought-resistant shrub native to southern Arizona, California, and Mexico.
It mimics natural sebum and conditions and seals moisture in the skin without clogging pores or exacerbating acne. Want more exfoliation advice? Don't miss the best exfoliating face washes for every budget. Dual effects of alpha-hydroxy acids on the skin. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. Int J Mol Sci. Thank you [email] for signing up.
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We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification. I Accept Show Purposes. Skin Ask a Dermatologist. By Mary Nunes Mary Nunes. Mary Nunes currently serves as a Merchandise Coordinator for Sephora, working specifically with the fragrance team. She interned for Byrdie in the summer of Byrdie's Editorial Guidelines.
In This Article What are the main benefits of exfoliating your face? Which type of exfoliator is best to use? How often should you exfoliate your face? Many face washes contain chemical and physical exfoliators, be it salicylic acid or micro-particles. While some will be able to tolerate these daily or even twice daily , for most we recommend using these only a handful of times a week and using a more gentle cleanser the rest of the time.
For many most people, regular exfoliation has some pretty major benefits. However, if you have oily skin, congested pores, dullness, or have aging concerns, you may benefit from exfoliation more than most.
Exfoliation can help brighten dull skin and might even help in conditions like acne," says Cochran Gathers. OK, remember how we said everyone is different? Well, just in the same way some people can handle lots of exfoliation, some can't handle it at all. Another issue is that you can exfoliate too much initially and then need to take a break to let your skin come back to baseline. If you are experiencing any of these after introducing a new treatment, product, or device, consider easing up for a while until you go are able to slowly reintroduce it.
As for the body, you can generally use similar guidelines. If you tend to have dry skin, stick to once a week; everyone else can manage two or three times a week. The only thing to remember here is that you shouldn't conflate a body exfoliator and face exfoliator. They are often thicker in consistency and contain higher concentrations of acids and could be too irritating for delicate facial skin," says Cochran Gather.
Your skin requires a delicate balance of exfoliation. When you overdo it, you run the risk of damaging your skin barrier, resulting in irritation and inflammation. Don't do it enough, and you may be met with dullness or clogged pores.
It may take a little guess-and-test, but the average person can handle two to three times a week. Want your passion for wellness to change the world? Become A Functional Nutrition Coach! Enroll today to join our upcoming live office hours. Our FREE doctor-approved beauty guide. You are now subscribed Be on the lookout for a welcome email in your inbox! Main Navigation. How Often Should You Exfoliate?
What Dermatologists Say. Log in Profile. Saved Articles. Zampella says it's totally fine to ramp that up. Because chemical exfoliators tend to be less intense and also more evenly applied, many people find that it's okay to use them every day. On the other hand, if you try an exfoliator and notice that your face is stinging, red, or otherwise angry afterward, it's time to take a step back. If you're using a manual exfoliator, that might mean opting for more of a salt or sugar scrub rather than something with big plastic beads, or simply easing up on the pressure you're using when you apply the product or tool to your skin.
For instance, "Those motorized brushes can be pretty harsh," Dr. Newsom cautions, so she suggests sticking with the softest brush head you can get and only using it once or twice a week. If you're using a chemical exfoliator, you can try using a smaller amount, a gentler product like lactic or glycolic acid rather than a retinoid , or just use it less frequently.
It's also worth taking a look at your whole routine and avoiding using other potentially irritating products right after you exfoliate. Picking a product that will work for you also depends on your skin type and your major concerns. If you have dry skin, for instance, you might be more sensitive to harsh scrubbing products, while someone with oily skin would be able to tolerate them more easily, Dr.
And if you have sensitive skin or a specific skin condition such as psoriasis, eczema, or rosacea , it will be even more important for you to start with a gentle product and increase the frequency slowly to make sure your skin doesn't react badly.
Luckily, it's usually pretty obvious when you've overdone it—and you should just cut back or consider switching exfoliants. If you have questions about exfoliating, you find that your skin is regularly reacting to exfoliants, or you feel like you need to exfoliate your skin with concerning frequency, it's worth checking in with your dermatologist.
They can give you some guidance and, possibly, a prescription that will work for your individual issues.
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Beauty Chevron Skin Chevron. What even is the point of exfoliating? Ultimately, you can exfoliate as often as your skin will tolerate it.
She's an experienced health and science journalist who is particularly interested in the science of skin care, sexual and reproductive health, drugs and drug policy, and mental health.
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