Why should you exfoliate? How often? What are the benefits? Are there any risks? Answered!
It took me a long time to start exfoliating; mainly because I didn’t understand why I should do it and all the benefits it brings to your skin, I was also worried about the “risks” I heard about from other people. Over the last two years I’ve learned all there is to know about exfoliators – so if you haven’t been scrubbing your skin, read below and get ready to add a new step to your beauty routine.
Why should I exfoliate?
Put simply – exfoliating will buff away the dead skin cells on your face to leave your skin soft, beautiful, and glowing. It also helps other products penetrate into your skin better – so if you apply a mask or moisturizer after exfoliating you’ll reap more of the benefits.
Exfoliating Benefits:
- Reduces signs of aging by encouraging cell turnover
- Helps other products absorb into your skin
- Reduced acne scars and dark spots on your face as it turns over your cells
- Unplugs all your clogged pores (particularly good for those with oily skin)
If you’re interested in some of my personal favorite exfoliators check out our recommendations.
How often should I exfoliate?
This depends on your skin type… Those with drier and more sensitive skin will exfoliate less regularly than those with oily, rough, or dull skin. But the general consensus is that you should not exfoliate more than once or twice a week. I, personally, exfoliate once a week using my go-to product.
You will know you over-exfoliated if your skin becomes sensitive, red, or irritated (in which case take a break from exfoliating and buy a more gentle exfoliator for the future.
What are the risks of exfoliating?
Well, the main risk of exfoliating is simply over-exfoliating (mentioned above) which may leave your skin dry, red, and irritated. You can reduce this risk by exfoliating less often and using gentler products.
Is exfoliating for everyone?
To a degree certain degree, yes. Those with acne prone, oily or dull skin will benefit most from exfoliation, along with those who want to reduce appearance of pores, wrinkles, acne scars, or dark spots. People with extremely dry or sensitive skin may want to stay away from exfoliation or use a very gentle cleanser with some light exfoliating beads in it.
Exfoliating advice:
The most important thing to remember is: be gentle. You are not trying to rip apart your skin, but just massage it lightly with the beads.
Good luck and enjoy your new-found beautiful glow!
Do you exfoliate? What advice do you have for others? Let us know below!