From how often you cleanse to what you use to treat acne, your skin type determines a lot of things about your skincare routine.
The same can also be said about how you exfoliate, or even if you should.
So why exfoliate?
As our skin cells naturally turnover and shed, they can often become “stuck” to the outermost layers of the skin. These build up over time and can lead to clogged pores, a rough texture, and even a dull skin appearance.
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells so your skin is clearer, healthier, smoother, and more vibrant.
Types of Exfoliation
There are two ways to exfoliate the skin: mechanically and chemically.
Mechanical
Mechanical exfoliation involves the use of a rough material to physically remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Examples include sugar scrub, a pumice stone, walnut shell, or a dry brush.
Chemical
Chemical exfoliation uses mild, non-abrasive chemicals to slough dead skin cells from the skin.
The most common component of chemical exfoliants are Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). These include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid. AHAs naturally break down the connection between dead skin cells and live skin cells to cleanse the skin’s surface.
While the term “chemical” may make you think otherwise, chemical exfoliants are often less harsh than mechanical exfoliants. There are also plenty of different options to explore, so if one doesn’t work you can always try another.
How to Exfoliate by Skin Type
While the majority of skin types can benefit from regular skin exfoliation, the type and frequency will differ. Here are some general guidelines to follow, based on skin type.
Dry Skin
Type: Chemical.
Frequency: Once or twice per week.
With dry skin, you’ll want to avoid mechanical exfoliation. It can cause microtears in the skin which will only lead to drier, more irritated skin.
Instead, look for chemical exfoliants containing AHAs. Look out for glycolic acid, lactic acid, or mandelic acid in particular. Just keep in mind that glycolic acid can make you more prone to sun damage. So follow up immediately with SPF and moisturizer.
Oily Skin
Type: Mechanical.
Frequency: Three times per week.
For oily skin, a mechanical exfoliation technique is best. This will help to breakdown the layers of sebum on the skin so as to unclog the pores and create a more vibrant appearance.
Dry brushing is a safe bet. Just move in small, gentle circular motions around your face. Do not apply too much pressure, just enough so the brush is in contact with the skin.
Rinse with lukewarm water following exfoliation. Follow up with moisturizer.
Combination Skin
Type: Mechanical or chemical.
Frequency: Two to three times per week.
Combination skin types can often benefit from either mechanical or chemical exfoliation, or even a combination of the two.
Just two things to keep in mind:
- If you’ll be trying both chemical and mechanical exfoliation, never do both on the same day.
- Moisturize immediately after exfoliation.
Not sure where to start? Salicylic acid is a gentle, but effective, chemical exfoliator.
Normal Skin
Type: Mechanical or chemical.
Frequency: Two to three times per week.
Just like combination skin, normal skin types can likely benefit from either mechanical or chemical exfoliation, or both. You may need to try a few different techniques to find one that works for you.
Sensitive Skin
Type: Chemical.
Frequency: No more than once per week.
If you have sensitive skin, you’re probably not surprised to hear that the answer to whether you exfoliate is… it’s complicated.
It’s probably best to avoid exfoliation entirely if you have sensitive skin. However, if you’re interested in trying, then chemical exfoliation with lactic acid is a good place to start.
Before you try it, though, perform a 24-hour patch test on your skin first. I recommend applying some lactic acid to your inner wrist and leave for 24 hours. If you notice redness, burning, hives, or any other signs of irritation, do not proceed with a facial exfoliation.
What’s your skin type? Will you try one of the exfoliation techniques mentioned above?