How Often to Exfoliate Your Face: The Definitive Guide from an Esthetician
How often should you exfoliate your face? This is a question that many people have, and the answer can vary depending on your skin type. As an esthetician, I would recommend exfoliating your face about two to three times a week. There are many benefits to exfoliating your face, including removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and improving collagen production.
In this article, I will discuss the different types of exfoliators and how often you should use them. I will also explain the difference between physical exfoliation and chemical exfoliation, as well as the benefits of each. Finally, I will list some of the best ingredients to look for in skincare products when searching for an exfoliator.
What is exfoliation and what are the benefits?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. This can be done mechanically, using a physical exfoliator like a scrub, or chemically, using an acid or enzyme.
Exfoliating has many benefits for your skin, including:
Improving circulation
Promoting cell turnover
Unclogging pores
Smoothing your skin texture
Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Gives you a glowing complexion
Exfoliation is also essential for anti-aging. As we age, our skin cell turnover slows down, which can lead to dull, dry, and uneven skin. Exfoliation helps to speed up cell turnover and brighten the complexion.
Now that you know all about the benefits of exfoliation, let’s talk about the different types of exfoliators.
The different types of exfoliators
There are two main types of exfoliation: physical and chemical.
Physical exfoliators are scrubs and clay masks that contain small particles that slough off dead skin cells.
Chemical exfoliators are serums, peels, or gels that contain acids or enzymes that eat away at dead skin cells. The most common type of chemical exfoliator is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), and enzymes, such as papain or bromelain.
Read more: AHA Vs. BHA: The Ultimate Guide
However, other items, such as exfoliating cleansers that start as physical but turn chemical when you add water, also exist.
How often should you exfoliate your face?
This is a question I get all the time, and it does not have a simple answer. It depends on a few factors, such as your skin type, the products you're using, and your environment.
If you have normal skin, you can probably exfoliate two to three times a week. If you have dry skin, you may want to exfoliate only once a week or every other week, and make sure to stay away from harsh exfoliants.
If you have oily skin, you can exfoliate three to four times a week if your skin can handle it. If you start to see dryness, irritation, or redness, back off on the exfoliation.
If you have combination skin, you can probably exfoliate two to three times a week, but pay attention to how your skin looks and feels after exfoliating.
Related: Skincare routine for Combination Skin
If you have sensitive skin, you may want to start with only once a week and see how your skin reacts.
The type of product you use will also affect how often you can exfoliate. For example, if you are using a physical exfoliant, you can probably use it more often than if you are using a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid.
And finally, your environment plays a role in how often you should exfoliate. If you live in a city with lots of pollution, for example, you may want to exfoliate more often to remove the build-up of dirt and grime on your skin.
So, as you can see, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how often to exfoliate. It depends on your skin type and needs. If you're not sure how often you should be exfoliating, talk to a dermatologist or esthetician who can help you figure it out.
Ingredients to look for in an exfoliator
There are a few key ingredients you should look for in an exfoliator, whether it's physical or chemical. For physical exfoliators, you want something with small beads or particles that won't scratch your skin. Some good options are jojoba beads, or corundum crystals.
For chemical exfoliators, you want to look for an alpha-hydroxy or beta-hydroxy acid. Glycolic acid and lactic acid are good examples of AHAs, while salicylic acid is a popular BHA. These acids help to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, making them easier to slough off.
You also want to look for an exfoliator with a low pH, as this will help to prevent irritation. A good rule of thumb is that if it stings when you put it on, it's too harsh.
Chemical exfoliators can also come in the form of enzymes, which break down dead skin cells. Some good options are papaya enzymes, bromelain enzymes, and pumpkin enzymes.
Read more: Salicylic Acid Benefits For Your Skin
Professional Micro Scrub
Micro Scrub is the perfect alternative to microdermabrasion and is safer for the skin too.
This phenomenal scrub contains exfoliating action of corundum crystals that break away dead skin build up leaving the skin incredibly smooth and polished.
Anti-Aging Exfoliant Masque
Anti-Aging Exfoliant Masque improves skin firmness, tone and texture with a blend of glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids and jojoba beads.
It rebuilds and recharges worn-out skin instantly with its gentle, yet effective ingredients to restore even the most resistive skin back to a healthy state.
Exfoliant Wash
Exfoliant Wash Acne Medication gives a thorough cleanse with Benzoyl Peroxide and polishing beads that remove dead cells, excess oil, and impurities that clog pores.
Combined with Aloe Vera and nourishing botanicals to assist in hydrating and healing the skin for improved tone and texture.
Conclusion
Exfoliating your face is a great way to slough off dead skin cells and reveal brighter, more radiant skin. However, it's important to not overdo it, as this can lead to irritation. The best way to figure out how often you should exfoliate is to start slow and increase the frequency as needed. And be sure to look for an exfoliator with small beads or particles, as well as a low pH, to prevent irritation.
If you're looking for an esthetician in Naples, FL, I'd be happy to help you out! I can provide you with more information on how often you should exfoliate your face and recommend the best products for your skin type. You can book an appointment online or give me a call at (239) 920-1888.
What are your thoughts on exfoliating? Have you found what works best for your skin? Let us know in the comments below!
Happy exfoliating!