What Does Exfoliation Do?

Exfoliation is the process by which the damaged, outer layer of the skin is removed. Most skin types can benefit from exfoliation, though skin type should be taken into account to find the exfoliant with the least amount of irritation. Even though irritation is a risk, exfoliation will actually improve skin health of those who have dry skin, oily skin, blackheads, acne, sun-damaged skin, flaky skin (not caused by a skin disorder or disease), because it removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.

If You Have Oily Skin . . .

Dead skin cells are getting trapped in your pores because they are not sloughing off as they should be. If you are exfoliating your skin, you are removing those dead skin cells before they get trapped and cause more problems. Also, when pores are clogged with oily skin, the linings in the oil glands themselves can become irregular and prevent the flow of oil out of the pores. Exfoliants can help to restore a natural shape to the lining and prevent clogging.

If You Have Dry Skin . . .

Exfoliation of dead skin cells will encourage more moisture filled skin cells to replace them on the skin’s surface. This results in healthier, fresher looking skin. When dead skin cells are removed, this also allows moisturizers to penetrate more easily into the skin because they are not blocking the absorption.

If You Have Sun-Damaged Skin . . .

Your skin begins to become thickened and can appear discolored, dull and more wrinkled than it really is. Exfoliating sun-damaged skin can remove this thick outer layer, leaving you with smooth, natural colored, healthier skin and will reduce clogged pores.

How Often Should I Exfoliate?

First of all, you should use an exfoliator only on clean, dry skin (unless otherwise directed on package’s instructions). With that said, if you have oily skin, you should be exfoliating 4 to 5 times per week after cleansing skin. If you have dry or sensitive skin you should only exfoliate 1 to 2 times per week to prevent further irritation. During the summer or warm months you’ll want to exfoliate more than normal. This is because sweat is virtual glue as far as your skin is concerned, making dead skin cells stick together and coat your skin - additional skin problems can proceed from there.

After you exfoliate, you need to use a moisturizer - as with exfoliating, most skin types will benefit from moisturizing. How much should you moisturize? You can tell by how your skin feels - if it feels tight, then it’s time to moisturize.

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