There are two main ways to exfoliate your skin. Physical exfoliation, which uses gritty pieces to physically remove cells from the surface of the skin, and chemical exfoliation, which uses hydroxy acids or enzymes to help dissolve and remove the dead skin cells. What you decide to use largely depends on preference, but also your skin type and sensitivity towards certain products. We explore the different types of exfoliators, the benefits of exfoliating and more, so let’s get started.

How often should you exfoliate?

There are five main types of skin. Normal, dry, oily, combination and sensitive. Understanding your specific skin type will give you a better idea on how to treat acne or how to achieve smoother, clearer skin. When it comes to exfoliating, here are some tips to best suit your skin type.

Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, you should be wary when it comes to exfoliation. Harsh products may irritate your skin which could lead to further dryness or even sensitivity. If you have more of a dry skin, it is recommended that you stick with natural products, use a moisturiser afterwards and only exfoliate once or twice a week.

Oily Skin

People with oily skin can exfoliate two to three times a week, if your skin can tolerate it. And if you have this skin type, you could also benefit from a physical exfoliation to remove any additional build up that may occur.

Combination Skin

If you have a combination skin, you are in luck. Your skin should be able to handle scrubs, acids and enzymes, all in moderation. Try to stick with exfoliating only two to three times a week, if your skin allows.

Sensitive Skin

If you suffer with sensitive skin, you also need to be careful. Using the incorrect products, or an exfoliator that is too brash for your skin could lead to irritation, redness or even flaking of the skin. Use an enzyme-based exfoliator for a more gentle approach, and only exfoliate once or twice a week if your skin will allow.

Mature Skin

When it comes to mature skin, try a gentle enzyme or chemical exfoliant twice a week. If your skin begins to show any signs of irritation, decrease the frequency. An added bonus would be to find an all-around exfoliator that also provides anti-aging benefits by reducing wrinkles and pigmentation.

But why is exfoliating important?

Humans lose roughly 500 million skin cells every day. When these are not removed, they can begin to build up on the skin, causing it to look dull. Exfoliation can even improve your skin tone and prevent conditions like acne.

3 main reasons why you should exfoliate

Besides the fresh and freeing feeling a proper exfoliation and cleaning can give you, here are the top three reasons you should exfoliate regularly.

It unclogs pores

Exfoliating will remove any dirt and debris deep within your pores, that your everyday cleanser may have missed. Doing this will also help to prevent breakouts. Also, when dead, dry cells are removed from your skin and your pores are cleared, it makes it easier to soak up anything you slather on it, reaping the maximum benefits from the other products you may wish to use.

It boosts circulation and radiance

Every time you exfoliate your skin, you stimulate the lymphatic drainage allowing for internal cleansing, as well as the circulation of oxygen-rick blood which nourishes the skin’s surface. As your skin makes newer healthier skin cells every day, it is vital to remove the older, duller skin cells to allow the glowing skin cells to move to the surface. Exfoliating will give your skin an instant boost, making it look more radiant, and thus younger looking.

Smooths skin texture and appearance

When you exfoliate, you remove any excess dry, and flaky cells which helps to even out the skin tone and minimise the appearance of discolouration. The smoother your skin is, the easier it will be to apply your make-up, and the better it will look. Your foundation should be less prone to looking splotchy and cakey.

Tips to remember:

Exfoliating can have a drying effect on the skin. You should therefore always apply a moisturiser (again, the right type for your skin) or any other hydrating product afterwards.

Some products can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. You should always wear sunscreen and try to exfoliate at night rather than in the morning.

All products work differently for each person. If you are ever unsure about what products you should be using, consult a skin care professional, or do a strip test beforehand.