Exfoliation, or removing dead skin cells with a facial scrub, is an important step in skincare. But, does it need to be done every day? 🤔
What Is Exfoliation & Why Is It Important?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the skin's surface, leaving the skin looking healthier and more radiant.
Exfoliation can be done in two main ways:
Physical Exfoliation (Scrub) 🧖♀️
- Using scrub beads or physical tools (such as a face brush) to remove dead skin cells.
- Suitable for normal & oily skin.
- Can cause irritation if the scrub beads are too rough or used too frequently.
Chemical Exfoliation (AHA/BHA) ✨
- Using ingredients like AHA (Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid) or BHA (Salicylic Acid) to remove dead skin cells without scrubbing the skin.
- Gentler for sensitive skin.
- Suitable for acne and dull skin.
- Can cause irritation if overused.
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
NOT all skin types need exfoliation every day!
Skin Type |
Recommended Exfoliation Frequency |
Oily & Combination Skin |
2-3 times a week |
Dry & Sensitive Skin |
1-2 times a week |
Normal Skin |
2 times a week |
⚠️ Avoid exfoliating every day!
Exfoliating too often can dry out the skin, make it more sensitive, and lead to irritation or acne.
Signs of Over-Exfoliation
If your skin is experiencing the following, you may be exfoliating too frequently:
- Skin feels hot & red
- Skin becomes very dry or flakes
- Breakouts or bumps appear
- Skin feels more sensitive than usual
If you experience these symptoms, stop exfoliating for a while and use moisturizer and sunscreen to help recover the skin barrier.
How to Exfoliate Correctly & Safely
- Use a scrub with soft beads to avoid irritation
- Exfoliate only as needed (1-3 times a week)
- Use a moisturizer after exfoliating to keep your skin hydrated
- Don’t forget sunscreen! Skin is more sensitive to sunlight after exfoliating