The Ultimate Guide to Exfoliating Your Skin

How do I exfoliate my skin?

You might notice that the cold, arid winter air causes your skin to become dry and cracked. Luckily, exfoliation can remove the outermost layer of dead cells that make skin look dull and dry — it’s essential that you exfoliate regularly to maintain optimal skin health. Not sure how to exfoliate the right way? Check out this handy guide.

What is exfoliation?

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. There are two main types of exfoliation — chemical and physical. Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals, like alpha and beta hydroxy acids, to gently dissolve dead skin cells, whereas physical exfoliation uses a tool or a scrub. By removing dead skin cells, exfoliation helps brighten your complexion and allows your skincare products to penetrate deeper into your skin, meaning they work better. It can also make your skin softer and clear clogged pores.

How often should you exfoliate?

Less is more. With exfoliation, you want to help along the natural exfoliation process so that your skin glows. As you age, the rate of skin cell turnover slows considerably, leading to duller-looking skin. If you have sensitive skin, reach for a creamy cleanser containing a low percentage of glycolic acid once a week. For oily skin, many dermatologists agree that it is safe to exfoliate up to four times per week, and oily skin is responsive to both chemical and physical exfoliation. Normal to combination skin types should exfoliate twice weekly, either with a chemical or physical exfoliant.

Avoid exfoliation if you’re mid-breakout, which can do more harm than good. Anytime you have a cut or open wound, sunburn, or infection on your face, you should also avoid exfoliating.

How to safely exfoliate your skin

To safely exfoliate your skin without turning it beet red, select an exfoliation method suitable for your skin type. If you’re using a microdermabrasion scrub, like LaserAway Beauty Polished, or a chemical exfoliator, apply the product gently using small, circular motions for 30 seconds, and then rinse off with lukewarm water. If you’re using a brush or sponge, use short, light strokes. Follow up with a moisturizer immediately after exfoliating to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. If you end up overdoing it, take a few days off and exfoliate again when your skin is calm again.

Wake up every day to glowing skin

Making exfoliation a regular part of your SkinFitness™ routine ensures that your skin continues to look and feel its very best. Remember that your skincare regimen should also consist of high-quality sunscreen, gentle cleanser, and moisturizer that’s formulated with peptides and ceramides. Check out LaserAway Beauty to learn about dermatologist-tested and developed top-of-the-line skincare products.