How Do You Exfoliate Your Skin? A Quick Guide
If you’re new to skincare, you probably have a lot of questions about exfoliating. What is exfoliation, and is it right for you?
Keep reading as we dive into the different types of exfoliation and the best ways to exfoliate your skin.
What to Know About Exfoliation
What Is Exfoliation?
Our skin is constantly regenerating. As new cells form, a layer of dead ones builds upon the surface of your skin.
Exfoliating helps the natural process of regeneration by gently removing the dead buildup. This can be accomplished through chemical or physical exfoliation.
Chemical exfoliation often takes the form of creams that contain acids and enzymes. Physical exfoliation uses tools or scrubs to manually rub off the dead layer.
Benefits of Exfoliation
Dead cell accumulation on your skin can give it a dull, dry, aged appearance. Removing the buildup will leave you with a fresh and healthy glow. It can also make dark spots fade, such as those caused by acne scarring.
Exfoliation can help minimize lines and wrinkles. Regular exfoliating can also tighten up your pores, giving the surface of your face a smoother appearance.
Exfoliating may even help lessen acne problems. Removing the dead buildup can assist in unclogging your pores, which in turn leads to reduced inflammation. Removing the dead layer also helps your skin absorb moisturizers and other topical treatments better.
How to Exfoliate Your Skin
Now let’s take a look at some different physical and chemical exfoliation treatments, to help decide which is best for you. Some of these methods you can do at home, while others require the help of a professional.
Physical Exfoliation
Physical exfoliation can be as gentle as rubbing your face with a soft “baby” washcloth and soap. And for exfoliant beginners, this is a good place to start. Many people who are new to physical exfoliation scrub too hard and too often, which can result in red, painful skin.
For stronger exfoliation, try scrubs that contain microbeads or sugar crystals. Other exfoliating products include brushes, sponges, and towels. But be careful! Working with a dermatologist is highly recommended. Your skin is a delicate living barrier. What works for some skin types may not work for yours. In order to avoid further damage, it’s best to consult a dermatologist when deciding how to exfoliate.
North Pacific Dermatology can help you create a treatment plan customized to your skin type. We can also help you with more intensive physical exfoliation methods, such as microdermabrasion.
Chemical Exfoliation
Over-the-counter chemical exfoliation products often contain acids like AHAs or BHAs. These dissolve the topmost layer of your skin cells, allowing you to wash them away.
For sensitive skin, look for exfoliants that use enzymes instead of acids. These enzymes come from natural sources like fruit. They achieve the same result as acids, but slower and more gently.
It’s important to have reasonable expectations when you use over-the-counter chemical exfoliants. They won’t cure deep acne scarring, for example.
For best results, schedule an appointment with North Pacific Dermatology. We can assess your needs and provide professional exfoliation services like chemical peels.
Prioritize Skin Health!
Enjoy a fresh, glowing complexion when you exfoliate your skin using these handy exfoliation tips. Chemical and physical exfoliation both serve to remove dead skin cells, which can alleviate symptoms of acne and aging.
For personalized skincare, consult North Pacific Dermatology. We provide a combination of medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatment methods to meet your needs.
Plus, we offer video telemedicine visits so you can receive professional skin health advice from the comfort of your home!
Contact us today for more info, and to schedule your appointment!