If you have sensitive skin, you probably stay away from scrubs because you don't want your skin to be a red, raw-looking mess. And if you're acne-prone, a peel definitely seems insane because breakouts, right? Wrong. Turns out exfoliation can benefit every skin type. Here's why:
In addition to revealing fresh skin cells, exfoliating removes dead cells from pores, making them appear smaller. Makeup also looks better. "It's like sanding a wall before you paint."
Find the routine that's right for your type and get glowing.
1. My skin's dry. Will exfoliating strip it?
Not necessarily. In fact, flakes can inhibit the full penetration of moisturizer. In addition, oil can get trapped and cause tiny, pimple-like bumps. Your best bet: gentle chemical exfoliators (an AHA-rich serum dissolves bonds between dead cells) or a light facial scrub uses super-fine particles and vitamin B5, a total moisture bomb). Try one, immediately followed by a gentle hydrating lotion, every two or three days.
2. I'm way too sensitive … right?
Gritty scrubs are definitely off-limits but most people can benefit from a mild, short-contact exfoliating product. Consider a cleanser or toner rich in fruit or plant enzymes, twice a week, to deep clean gently.Use a cool, wet washcloth in circular motions to loosen and sweep away dead skin cells.
3. But I'm oily and acne-prone! Will I break out?
Stay away from rough physical scrubs, which can contribute to breakouts. Chemical versions — such as a face wash made with hydroxy acids like glycolic or salicylic remove grime and penetrate oil to break down pore-clogging dead skin cells. Charcoal masks absorbs excess oil, clay masks also does the trick for oily and acne-prone skin. Try it !!! You will be pleasantly surprised.
4. What should I do for my normal skin?
"Normal" usually means "combo" — an oily T-zone and dry cheeks — which can benefit from the Goldilocks of exfoliators: baking soda. In a waterless, powder-cleanser form like Bioré's Baking Soda Cleansing Scrub it's easy to adjust the strength: Add less water for a stronger scrub (perfect for the T-zone) and more for a gentler one (ideal for the cheeks). Do this two or three times a week.
Home peels are an option for your problem-free skin. Starting with a glycolic-acid concentration below 10 percent and slowly working your way up to stronger products, which help diminish fine lines and fade spots. Or, use an exfoliating gel that contains fruit enzymes, that slough away dead skin as you massage it around on your face (it's like actual magic!).
5. Should I exfoliate in the morning or night?
Either is fine but if you use treatments at night like retinol, you may want to exfoliate before bed, as your skin will be more receptive once dead surface cells have been removed.
6. Can't I just use my body scrub?
No. Body scrubs often have harsher, larger granules, made to even out the thicker, tougher skin below the neck.
7. Should I avoid my eye area?
Some exfoliators, like are specifically made for the delicate eye tissue. Always check the label before use a product.
