Exfoliating your skin isn’t seen as essential skincare step for everyone, but if you don’t use one, we’d recommend you start now. Using the right exfoliator can be a real game-changer for your skin, no matter skin type.

If you have common concerns like ageing, uneven skin tone and texture,  regular exfoliation exfoliator could well be what your skin is missing out on. To learn more about the benefits of exfoliating and find the right exfoliator format for skin type and concern, read on.

What are the benefits of exfoliating your face?

• Exfoliating controls breakouts unclogs pore and dissolve dirt, oil and debris which can lead to white and blackheads.
• Exfoliating smooths skin texture minimising pigmentation, hyperpigmentation as well as reducing residual scarring from acne.
• Exfoliating will boost collagen production, plump and reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
• Exfoliating removes the top layer of dead skin cells; your skincare penetrates deeper into the skin and you will get the most out of your active ingredients.
• Exfoliating can reduce signs of ageing by boosting cell turnover, encouraging new skin cells to form so that your skin is fresh and glowing.

How often should you exfoliate your face?

We recommend that you should exfoliate 2-3 times a week, but there are some gentle exfoliators that you can use them every day. As a rule of thumb follow the suggested uses on the label to make sure you don’t overdo it! If you experience any irritation that is an indication to stop using them as frequently or change the formula.

Can you over-exfoliate your face?

Yes! When using any type of exfoliant too much, it can strip away the skin barrier and make your skin worse. Irritation can appear as everything from hypersensitivity, soreness, dryness and even breakouts.

Which type of exfoliator should you use?

The type of exfoliator you use depends on your skin type.

• Oily to combination skin – should use a physical or chemical exfoliator that contains BHAs like salicylic acid and charcoal to balance excess oil.
• Dry skin – should opt for AHAs like glycolic acid to help retain water, a moisturising exfoliator or just follow up with a moisturiser.
• Mature skin – a gentle physical exfoliator, chemical AHAs or both for double action.
• Acne-prone skin – a chemical exfoliator like salicylic will be gentle and won’t irritate your inflamed skin. Using physical exfoliators may break the skin, causing lesions or making existing ones worse.
 

Looking for a product recommendation?

Tweet us @escentual or myself, @EscenutalKeavy with your skin type and concern, and we’ll help you find the right exfoliator for you!

Discover More:

• Exfoliating: Chemical VS Physical
• 4 Ingredient Pairs Your Routine Shouldn’t Be Without