Essential Skincare Series Part 2- Exfoliation explained: How to get smoother, brighter skin without overdoing it.

Exfoliation – it’s one of those buzzwords that pops up in skincare advice everywhere, but are you doing it right? Or at all? While exfoliating can work wonders for your skin, using the wrong products or overdoing it can cause more harm than good. Let’s break it down so you can get that glowing, smooth skin without the risk of irritation.

What is exfoliation, and why do we need it?

Our skin is constantly renewing itself and shedding dead skin cells to make way for new ones. However, sometimes those dead skin cells hang around longer than they should, leaving your skin looking dull, clogged, or uneven. That’s where exfoliation comes in. By gently removing that layer of debris, you’re revealing the fresh, healthy skin underneath – hello, glow!

But exfoliation isn’t just about aesthetics. It also helps your serums, moisturisers, and treatments penetrate more effectively. Think of it as clearing the way for all those skin-loving ingredients to do their best work.

The types of exfoliation

There are two main types of exfoliation, and which one you choose will depend on your skin type and concerns:

1. Physical Exfoliation

This involves using scrubs or tools to manually slough off dead skin cells. Think scrubs with fine particles or tools like cleansing brushes or muslin cloths. While this type can give an instant polished feel, it’s not for everyone – especially those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Harsh scrubs can cause micro-tears, leaving your skin vulnerable to irritation. If you opt for a physical exfoliant, choose something gentle like jojoba beads rather than sharp granules.

2. Chemical Exfoliation

Don’t let the word ‘chemical’ scare you. This method uses ingredients like acids or enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells. The most popular ones are:

• AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): Ideal for dry or sun-damaged skin. Ingredients like glycolic and lactic acid work on the surface to brighten and even out skin tone.

• BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids): Perfect for oily or acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid is the go-to BHA, penetrating pores to clear out oil and debris.

• Enzymes: A gentle option derived from fruits like papaya or pineapple. Great for sensitive skin types.

How often should you exfoliate?

This is the golden question, and the answer is: less is more. Over-exfoliation is a common mistake and can lead to an impaired skin barrier, with symptoms such as redness, sensitivity, dryness, and even breakouts.

For most people, exfoliating 1-3 times a week is plenty. If you’re using a gentle chemical exfoliant, some formulas are designed for daily use, but it’s always best to start slow and build up as your skin adjusts.

Top tips for exfoliating like a pro

• Listen to your skin. If it feels irritated or sensitive, take a break.

• Time it right. Avoid exfoliating immediately before applying strong actives like retinoids, as this can increase irritation.

• Don’t forget your neck and décolletage. These areas are often neglected but can benefit just as much from exfoliation.

• Always follow with SPF. Exfoliation makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so a good sunscreen is non-negotiable.

Choosing the right exfoliant for your skin type

• Sensitive skin: Look for enzyme-based exfoliants or low-concentration lactic acid products. Avoid anything too abrasive or strong.

• Oily or acne-prone skin: Salicylic acid is your best friend, as it clears clogged pores and reduces oil.

• Dry or ageing skin: Glycolic acid is ideal for sloughing off dull skin and boosting radiance.

• Combination skin: A mix of AHAs and BHAs can target dryness and oiliness simultaneously.

When to avoid exfoliation

If your skin is compromised – think redness, irritation, or active eczema – it’s best to put the exfoliants down until things calm down. Always patch test new products, especially if you’re prone to sensitivity.

Exfoliation is a fantastic way to refresh and rejuvenate your skin, but balance is key. Overdoing it can lead to more problems than it solves, so start slow, use the right products, and don’t forget to protect your skin with SPF.

If you’re not sure which exfoliant is right for you, book a consultation, and we’ll create a personalised routine that works for your skin. After all, glowing skin is happy skin!