Exfoliation FAQs You’ve Always Wanted Answered
Confused about exfoliation and where it fits into your skincare routine? Or debating which type of exfoliator to choose? We’ve got you covered! Below, we answer the most common questions about exfoliating to help you achieve your best skin yet.
Exfoliating is essential for cleansing your pores and eliminating dead skin cells. With regular use, it can leave your skin looking brighter, smoother, and clearer. However, overdoing it or using an exfoliator that doesn’t suit your skin type can cause more harm than good.
To help you avoid any mishaps, we’re breaking down the top 10 questions we get about exfoliation. From the difference between chemical and physical exfoliators to what works best with AHAs and BHAs—we’ve got the answers you need!
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
It’s best to exfoliate 1-3 times per week, depending on your skin’s tolerance and needs. Exfoliation can make the skin more sensitive, so doing it too frequently can lead to irritation. Sticking to this range ensures your skin reaps the benefits without becoming overly sensitive.
How Can You Tell If You’re Over-Exfoliating?
Signs of over-exfoliating include redness, irritation, sensitivity, and breakouts that won’t heal. Your skin might also become unusually dry, flaky, or excessively oily as it tries to balance itself.
If this happens, stop exfoliating for a week to allow your skin to recover. Afterward, reintroduce exfoliation gradually, limiting it to 1-2 times a week. Opting for gentle formulas, like PHA-based exfoliators, can also help. And when in doubt, consult a dermatologist for tailored advice.
Should You Choose a Chemical or Physical Exfoliator?
This depends on your skin type and personal preference.
Physical Exfoliators: These use scrubbing particles, like sugar or coffee grounds, to manually remove dead skin cells. They’re commonly found in scrubs and gels. However, they can sometimes feel rough, especially on sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Chemical Exfoliators: These rely on AHAs (water-soluble acids for surface exfoliation) or BHAs (oil-soluble acids that clear deep within pores) to promote cell turnover. PHAs, another type of chemical exfoliant, offer a gentler option, perfect for sensitive skin.
For acne-prone individuals, chemical exfoliators with AHAs or BHAs are often the best choice, as they work without irritating active breakouts.
What Should You Avoid Combining with AHAs and BHAs?
Avoid layering AHAs or BHAs with retinol or vitamin C—they can cause excessive redness and sensitivity. Instead, alternate their use, applying one during the day and the other at night.
On the other hand, hyaluronic acid works beautifully with AHAs and BHAs! It hydrates and nourishes the skin, maintaining a healthy skin barrier after exfoliation.
When Should You Use Chemical Exfoliants—Morning or Night?
Nighttime is generally the best time to apply chemical exfoliants. Using them during the day increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, which puts you at risk of sun damage. If you do use them in the morning, always follow up with a broad-spectrum SPF.
Can You Use AHAs or BHAs with Hyaluronic Acid?
Absolutely! Hyaluronic acid is a hydrating powerhouse that pairs exceptionally well with AHAs and BHAs. It helps boost hydration, keeping your skin balanced and happy after exfoliation. Despite its name, hyaluronic acid is not an exfoliant—it’s suitable for all skin types!
Are Acid Toners and Exfoliators Both Necessary?
Not really! Since both toners and exfoliators often contain acids, using both can be redundant. A single product with AHAs or BHAs is usually enough to get the job done.
If you plan to use acid products during the day, don’t forget your SPF! Sun sensitivity increases significantly after using exfoliants.
Can You Combine AHAs and BHAs?
Yes, but proceed cautiously! AHAs and BHAs can work together to provide thorough exfoliation, but only if their concentrations are low enough to avoid irritation.
When using them together, keep AHAs under 12% and BHAs under 3%. If you prefer to use them separately, AHAs can go up to 15%, while BHAs typically range between 0.5-5%. Always monitor how your skin reacts, and discontinue use if you experience any discomfort.
Where Does Exfoliator Fit in a Skincare Routine?
Exfoliating comes right after cleansing. After removing dirt and makeup with a double cleanse, exfoliate to get rid of dead skin cells. Follow up with toner to rebalance your skin’s pH and finish with essence to hydrate and prep your skin for the rest of your routine.
Is Exfoliating Safe for Sensitive Skin?
Yes, but start slow! Gentle exfoliators like PHAs or lactic acid are great options for sensitive skin. Lactic acid, in particular, helps improve skin texture and fade scars while maintaining moisture.
For extra peace of mind, consult a dermatologist about the best exfoliators for your skin. Always patch test any new product before full application.
