Exfoliation Dos and Don'ts You Can't Afford to Miss!

The Dos and Don'ts of Exfoliation for a Radiant Complexion!

Author

Flawless Beauty Insider
November 25, 2023

Getting smoother and brighter skin can be tricky. You want that radiant glow, but sometimes all you get is redness and irritation.

Now, when it comes to exfoliating, there are two types: physical and chemical. It's like choosing between scrubbing with tiny grains or using special liquids.

So, what's the best way to achieve that dreamy complexion? It's a bit of a puzzle.

It might seem puzzling, but using exfoliation in your skincare routine the right way can be really good for your skin.

Here's why: it gets rid of the old, dead skin cells, making room for newer ones. This gives you skin that's softer, smoother, and brighter.

Exfoliating also goes deep into your pores to clean out the oil buildup and other gunk, which means fewer blackheads, whiteheads, and breakouts.

Plus, it helps your other skincare products sink in better, so they can do their job well.

But here's the catch: if you don't do it right, it can actually harm your skin in the short and long run.

That's why it's crucial to know the do's and don'ts of exfoliation.

Once you've got the basic idea of how to exfoliate correctly, here are the top things to always remember when you're making it a part of your weekly routine:

Do’s 

Exfoliants come in two types: chemical and physical. Physical exfoliants use tiny particles, such as fruit pits, nutshells, or sugar, to mechanically scrub away dead skin.

Be cautious, though—the coarser the particles, the more harm they can cause to your skin.

On the flip side, chemical exfoliants employ acids and enzymes to delicately dissolve dead skin by breaking the bonds holding these cells together.

Despite common beliefs, this approach can be gentler and safer for your skin, as it doesn't involve harsh rubbing and tugging.

Exfoliating reveals a new layer of skin that is sensitive. If you exfoliate during the day, your skin becomes more susceptible to sun damage.

To minimize this risk and allow your skin to heal while you sleep, it's safer to exfoliate at night.

Apply SPF regularly, and it's crucial after exfoliation.

Your skin stays sensitive to the sun's harmful UV rays for a few days post-exfoliation, so it's better to be safe than sorry.

Don’ts

While the desire for bright, smooth skin daily is understandable, resist the temptation to over-exfoliate.

Doing so can permanently harm your skin's protective barrier, which shields it from the elements and helps retain moisture.

Over-exfoliation may result in skin dehydration, redness, peeling, and even worse acne.

Additionally, it can cause irritation by repeatedly removing the top skin layer before the fresh layer has a chance to heal.

Stick to exfoliating once or twice a week, and avoid exfoliating daily.

Follow a crucial rule when exfoliating: be gentle with your skin.

Never exfoliate if you've recently had laser treatments or chemical peel facials, as these are already intense exfoliants.

Exfoliating on top of these treatments can be too harsh and may cause permanent damage to your skin.

Also, consider that waxing, a form of exfoliation, can strip away the top layer of your skin.

If your skin feels sensitive, tender, becomes red, flaky, or stings after exfoliating, it's crucial to stop immediately.

Continuing could do more harm than good. Give your skin a break for a week or so before attempting exfoliation again.

Ensure you research and choose the right exfoliation method for your skin type.

Exfoliating can be a bit tricky, but when done correctly, it can work wonders for your skin.

Pay close attention to how your skin feels and reacts, ensuring you get the most benefits without causing any damage.