Dr Ritu advises that you don't really need to exfoliate, particularly if you're on the younger side. Let's face it, you're rocking that youthful glow anyway! Your regular cleansing routine should be enough to keep your skin clean and healthy and can promote exfoliation of dead skin cells.
Poor exfoliation is a leading cause of blackheads and whiteheads, some of the most common signs of acne. You can also develop “undergrowth” without regular exfoliation. This is comprised of not only dead skin cells but also trapped dirt and oil, which can lead to ingrown hairs.
But if you ask dermatologists, they'll tell you that not only is exfoliation usually an unnecessary step, many people overdo it. “Our skin cells naturally exfoliate on their own,” said Chicago-based dermatologist Caroline Robinson.
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the outer layer of your skin. While some people believe that this improves the appearance of their skin, it's not for everyone. If not done properly, it could do more harm than good.
Generally speaking, board-certified dermatologist Lian A. Mack, MD, says exfoliating daily isn't recommended for many skin types as it will strip skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling overly dry, which can then result in irritation and inflammation.
Regular exfoliation is one of the most effective ways to keep older skin looking youthful and bright. As we age, our skin's natural exfoliation process slows down and causes a buildup of dead, dull skin. Exfoliating helps speed up cellular turnover, softening fine lines and wrinkles and diminishing hyperpigmentation.
Most experts advise that you exfoliate two to three times per week — as long as your skin can handle it. Chemical exfoliants tend to be fine to use more regularly. Physical methods, on the other hand, may be too abrasive to use multiple times a week.
Do I need to exfoliate? “Our skin naturally exfoliates on its own by desquamating or turning over every 27 days, so while you don't technically need to exfoliate, it can be helpful if it is done carefully. For instance, acne-prone skin can benefit from exfoliation because it helps to open up clogged pores.
That effect is simply all those dead skin cells piling up unevenly on the skin. This is why un-exfoliated skin looks dull and rough. Lastly, Augusta noticed that her skin stopped absorbing moisturizer.
Cleaning the face before exfoliating allows you to start with a fresh slate. Exfoliation dives into the pores, more so than a mild cleanser. It's important to remove your makeup and clean your face on a daily basis. It's not always necessary to exfoliate with the same frequency.
Cleansing washes away dirt, makeup, and other skin impurities. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts. Cleansing first may remove surface-level dirt, allowing for better access to dead skin cells when exfoliating.
The tape test.
This test is for your face and it's very simple. Press a piece of scotch tape to your forehead. Remove it and check its surface—if it's covered with flakes, it's definitely time to exfoliate!
The “black stuff” when you rub your skin is nothing but dead cells, dirt and surface grime. It comes off due to friction caused by rubbing your skin.
Take an ordinary washcloth and moisten with warm water, then use this to rub the skin gently in small circles. Cleansing the face before exfoliating may also be beneficial as this opens up the skin's pores. A natural sponge can work well to get rid of dead skin cells on the face.
DON'T rinse off a chemical exfoliant
After exfoliating, don't wash it off right away - the active ingredients take time to absorb into your skin and work their magic! Leave your exfoliant on for about 15-30 minutes to ensure the ingredients dissolve and remove all dead skin cells.
Telltale signs that you are over-exfoliating your skin
These include irritation, redness, inflamed skin, plus your complexion can become dry and flaky. You may develop a rash like texture, leading to uneven tones like patchy, red blotches. Breakouts are another common reaction, especially small, rough, bumpy pimples.
Dr Ritu advises that you don't really need to exfoliate, particularly if you're on the younger side. Let's face it, you're rocking that youthful glow anyway! Your regular cleansing routine should be enough to keep your skin clean and healthy and can promote exfoliation of dead skin cells.
“The warmth of a shower softens the skin and releases the body's natural oils, all while opening your pores,” says McMackin. “This aids in the exfoliation process and the removal of dead skin cells.”
Exfoliation can easily give you dry skin over time, but a moisturizer can help your skin cells retain the moisture they still have and prevent your skin from going dry or becoming itchy.
While one exfoliation won't completely strip your skin of all of its oil, it will remove most of it, leaving the surface dry. Therefore, exfoliating without applying a good moisturizer is guaranteed to leave the face drier than it was before exfoliation.
How long should it take to see results after exfoliation? This has a double answer. After just 10 minutes you should see an improvement in your complexion if done properly. However, for the real long term and highly noticeable results, it can take 6-8 weeks.
For most people, body exfoliation 2–3 times each week is enough to keep your skin in top condition. To exfoliate properly, make sure the water in your shower is warm—this will help open your pores. Then, gently scrub your exfoliating body scrub in circles over your skin.
If you talk to a dermatologist or any skin expert, they will tell you it is never too late to start a skincare routine. It does not matter how old you are because you will see benefits regardless of your age. The key is to ensure that you stick to your routine every day.