It’s crucial to know how to exfoliate face properly because doing so poorly or using too-harsh products can result in discomfort, irritation, and a weakened skin barrier.
Exfoliation is one of the most efficient elements in any skincare program since it often produces results straight away and helps remove dead skin cells for a more radiant, smooth complexion. According to Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Shaaria Nasir, gently exfoliating once or twice a week to eliminate a build-up of dead skin cells, cosmetics and oils will reveal sparkling fresh skin underneath. Consistently exfoliating also improves the absorption of other skincare active ingredients and lessens the appearance of big pores.
Success depends on choosing the proper face exfoliant for your skin type. Are acids more effective than standard gritty scrubs? We consulted dermatologists to learn the finest techniques for exfoliating your face and how to choose the approach that would work best for you.
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HOW TO EXFOLIATE FACE, ACCORDING TO DERMATOLOGISTS
According to Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Derrick Philips, “exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface layer of your skin using a chemical, granular substance, or exfoliation tool”. Be sure to carefully follow the usage instructions for your chosen product, and do not abuse them. If you have open skin, active acne , or sunburned skin, never exfoliate. Dr. Philips suggests exfoliating in the evening and following up the next morning with your best facial sunscreen because increased sun sensitivity is another contributing reason.
And why is it so critical to practice effective facial exfoliation? Exfoliation is significant for enhancing skin health since it promotes cell regeneration and can aid in the avoidance of skin problems including pore congestion, acne, blackheads, and whiteheads, according to Dr. Phillips. However, he cautions that improper exfoliation “can occasionally cause irritation, dryness, and sporadically hyperpigmentation.”
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HOW TO EXFOLIATE FACE WITH SCRUBS
It’s really simple to use a scrub to exfoliate your face. They often have a cream or gel consistency and contain minute grit, frequently fruit seeds or plant extracts like grains or oats. The procedure is straightforward: massage the scrub into the skin using warm water in circular motions, paying close attention to any dry patches.
Use these exfoliators alone or as the second step in a double cleansing routine. Scrubs should only be used once a week at most because they might be more abrasive than acids.
HOW TO EXFOLIATE FACE WITH ACIDS
Acids for skincare are typically found in liquid forms, mostly in bottles. They can also be purchased as spray toners or pre-soaked pads. If not, apply to a cotton pad and wipe it after cleaning your skin. You can finish by applying a moisturizer, but stay away from harsh active ingredients, notably retinol, since it will aggravate your skin. It’s usually preferable to do this in the nights, as Dr. Philips suggests.
The types of acid you choose, such as AHA vs. BHA, as well as the concentration, are equally important. One of the best alternatives available, glycolic acid melts away skin cells in a matter of seconds. Start with modest quantities because it can irritate some skin types. Salicylic acid is a fantastic blemish-buster if you have skin that is acne sensitive. Before applying the product to your entire face, Dr. Phil suggests performing a small patch test first. Based on the impact of exfoliating acids on your skin, one can use it twice a week.
HOW TO EXFOLIATE FACE FOR BEGINNERS
We advise using an acid rather than scrubs because they might be dangerous and easy to overdo. Particularly PHA skincare, as it is the mildest type of acid. They have larger molecules than AHAs and BHAs, thus they don’t penetrate skin cells as deeply. Because they are less likely to irritate, they are an excellent place to start.
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WHAT IS THE BEST THING TO EXFOLIATE FACE WITH?
The physical exfoliants are not Dr. Nasar’s favorite. She advises against using scrubs because they might lead to microscopic skin tears. “This irritates the skin and weakens the skin barrier.” Scrubs can still have a place in your regimen, according to Dr. Philips, it just depends on how you use them and which ones you choose. Yes, you can still wear scrubs, he says, but only when necessary. Beads or rice particles are preferable to shards that ravage and scratch the skin’s surface, so look for particles with smooth edges. Because they destroy the skin’s protective barrier and expose it to excessive dryness and even infection, abrasive scrubs should be absolutely avoided.
PHYSICAL VS CHEMICAL EXFOLIATION
I concur with the professionals in that exfoliating acids are the best remedy. You may see the results almost instantly, and they are softer while also being more effective.
The drawback is that, especially with those perplexing acronyms, they may initially appear frightening. It’s not as simple as picking up a scrub and using it as a facial wash for most people to know how to exfoliate your face with acids. Your skin will appreciate it when you grasp the fundamentals and choose between glycolic and salicylic acid based on what gives the most positive results.
However, I still have a few scrubs in my bathroom that I like to alternate using when my skin is very dry or dull. For a double dose of advantages, I particularly enjoy products that mix physical and chemical exfoliation.
DO YOU EXFOLIATE WITH A WET OR DRY FACE?
Similar to how you would with your everyday cleanser, apply physical exfoliants like scrubs to a wet face. You can apply chemical exfoliants to a dry face or a damp one after cleansing during night time skincare routine. Exfoliating on damp skin after cleansing is advised for a softer approach, but it’s crucial to read the directions carefully and adhere to them exactly, says Dr. Philips.