Exfoliation is the process of removing the oldest dead skin cells that cling to the outermost surface of your skin, such as what is done during microdermabrasion. When done correctly, exfoliation can make your skin look and feel smooth, fresh, and radiant. However, exfoliation can be difficult for people with problem skin because it can cause irritation and aggravate existing problems. If you are caring for problem skin, avoid over-exfoliating and limit exfoliation to once a week or once every fourteen days. Oily skin, dry skin, and acne prone skin respond well to different exfoliants so determine what works best for you based on your skin type.

Exfoliating oily skin is important in order to prevent clogged pores and acne. Use mild cleansers to wash and exfoliate oily skin. Harsh cleansers and soaps will strip your skin of natural oils and cause more oiliness in the long run because your skin will counteract the dryness by producing more oil. Oatmeal is a gentle ingredient that is great for exfoliating oily skin. A paste of honey and oatmeal can be applied and left on your face for a few minutes to loosen debris and absorb oil.

Over-exfoliating your skin can lead to irritation, cracked skin, and broken capillaries so make sure to apply exfoliants gently. Look for skin care products that contain beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), which dissolve the oil on your skin that clogs pores.

Acne prone skin produces more dead skin cells and does not shed them properly, causing cellular debris and excess oil to clog the pores. Whether your acne is mild or severe, exfoliation will make your skin softer and smoother while reducing breakouts.

It is generally believed that chemical products are the best for exfoliating acne prone skin, since scrubs and pads can irritate inflamed areas, causing redness and further breakouts. Chemical skin care products contain acids and enzymes that loosen and dissolve the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. Exfoliating chemicals are incorporated into skin care products like lotions, gels, masks, and toners. Chemical exfoliants are drying so it’s a good idea to use them in combination with an oil-free moisturizer. Some common chemicals that can be used for exfoliating acne prone skin include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and retinoids.

If you have dry skin, exfoliation will help to slough off dead skin cells and allow new, moisture-filled skin cells to replace them. The exfoliation of dry skin allows moisturizers to penetrate your skin more easily since there won’t be a layer of dead skin cells blocking them. The result is skin that’s softer, moister, and healthier-looking.

Caring for problem skin can be a challenge but with proper exfoliation techniques, you’re sure to give it a healthy glow. Whether you have dry skin, oily skin, or acne prone skin, regular exfoliation will make your skin look more youthful, supple, and radiant!