Facial Exfoliation: Everything You Need to Know!

Facial exfoliation is an essential step in any skincare routine, yet many people aren’t fully aware of how to exfoliate correctly. Depending on your skin type, different products and techniques may be more suitable. So, what is the right exfoliation process? How often should you exfoliate your face? Discover all the answers in the article below!

1. Why Should You Exfoliate Your Face?

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells using chemical agents or physical exfoliants. While our skin naturally sheds these cells every 30 days or so, this process is often incomplete, leading to clogged pores, flaky patches, and dry areas. Exfoliating helps keep pores clear, preventing acne formation and brightening the complexion. It also enhances the absorption of skincare products and supports collagen production, promoting a youthful, radiant look.

Many wonder how often they should exfoliate. Dead cells accumulate fairly quickly, with our skin shedding around 500 million cells daily. Dermatologists recommend exfoliating 1-2 times per week, though this may vary depending on skin type:

• Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Exfoliate 2-3 times weekly with salicylic acid or BHA products.
• Combination Skin: Exfoliate 2-3 times weekly, using physical or chemical exfoliants as appropriate.
• Normal Skin: Exfoliate 2 times weekly with chemical exfoliants.

Over-exfoliating can damage skin, so find a balance that suits your skin’s needs.

2. How to Exfoliate Properly

First, identify your skin type and choose suitable products for a safe, effective exfoliation routine.

2.1 Identify Your Skin Type

• Normal Skin: Resistant to irritation, this skin type can use any exfoliant without adverse effects.
• Sensitive Skin: Prone to redness and irritation, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for suitable products.
• Dry Skin: Tends to flake and feels rough, so follow exfoliation with moisturizer.
• Oily Skin: Often shiny with potential for clogged pores. Both physical and chemical exfoliants are suitable.
• Combination Skin: Exhibits traits of both dry and oily skin, so apply exfoliants strategically.
• Acne-Prone Skin: Easily develops blemishes. Mild to moderate acne may benefit from retinoids or salicylic acid products.

2.2 Choose Your Exfoliation Method

• Physical Exfoliation: Uses scrubs or tools. Although easy to perform, it may cause irritation if overused.Steps:
  1. Wash face with warm water and cleanser.
  2. Apply exfoliant, gently massaging in circular motions for 1 minute.
  3. Rinse with water and pat dry.
  4. Continue with other skincare steps.
• Chemical Exfoliation: Uses ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, or enzymes. This method can be more effective but may require a dermatologist’s advice.Steps:
  1. Cleanse skin.
  2. Apply the exfoliant evenly over the face and neck.
  3. Allow the product to absorb before continuing with other steps.

3. Post-Exfoliation Care

After exfoliating, your skin may need extra care. Rinse if using a physical exfoliant, then apply a hydrating moisturizer and sunscreen if going outside.

4. Choosing the Right Exfoliant

To choose a suitable exfoliant, consult a dermatologist and consider the following:

• Use Appropriate Products: Body scrubs should never be used on the face due to their strength.
• Avoid Layering Exfoliants: Using multiple products can damage skin.
• Adjust Products for Seasons: Skin’s needs may change with the weather, so switch products accordingly.

5. Popular Facial Exfoliants

Here are some recommended products:

5.1. Pro Acne Scrub (100ml)

This is a physical exfoliant designed for oily, acne-prone skin at an affordable price. Its oil-free formula ensures safety and prevents breakouts. With ultra-fine granules, Pro Acne Scrub gently removes dead skin cells, helping to unclog pores and achieve smoother skin. Additionally, it contains Lactic Acid (AHA), which provides antibacterial properties and effectively reduces acne. It is recommended to use the product once a week, or twice a week for those with oilier skin.

5.2. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant (118ml)

The Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant (118ml) is a safe and gentle chemical exfoliant that is popular worldwide. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it effectively removes dirt, cleanses pores, and helps prevent acne formation. According to the manufacturer’s recommendations, you should use this product 1-2 times daily after cleansing your skin, and there is no need to rinse it off.

5.3. Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner (150ml)

The Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner (150ml) is a chemical exfoliant that is suitable for acne-prone skin. This toner has a quick-absorbing texture and provides deep cleansing while effectively antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing the skin. You can use this product daily after your cleansing routine.

5.4. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a chemical exfoliant suitable for all skin types except sensitive skin. This high-concentration formula offers numerous benefits, including gentle exfoliation, brightening of the complexion, hydration, stimulation of collagen production, and reduction of acne. According to the manufacturer, it should be used a maximum of twice a week, and it is essential to apply sunscreen afterward to protect the skin.

5.5. Bio-Essence Renew Exfoliating Gel

Exfoliating can lead to smoother, brighter skin. Hopefully, this article provides the information you need to choose the best methods and products for radiant skin!