21/04/2022
5 exfoliation mistakes and how to fix them
Exfoliating too harsh
Whether you're exfoliating by hand or with a rotating brush, you're probably putting too much pressure on your skin. Using more force will not help you exfoliate deeper and can cause more skin damage. When you rub or the tool is too rough, you can scratch the top layers of your skin, causing blood vessels under the skin to burst. Instead, you should gently press with your fingertips or use a cloth and apply gentle pressure. If you're dealing with breakouts, look for a chemical exfoliator because exfoliating can spread bacteria and worsen breakouts.
Exfoliate too often or not often enough
Age and environmental damage slow down the skin's ability to remove dead skin cells. These dead cells build up every day, so exfoliating helps remove them and the buildup that clogs pores.
In the case of over-exfoliating, what seems like a good thing can actually be bad for you. For most skin types, daily exfoliation is too much. When you exfoliate too often, you're not giving your skin time to properly repair, which can lead to stinging, dryness due to a stripped lipid barrier, and even aging caused by chronic inflammation. . In general, exfoliating twice or thrice weekly is appropriate for most skin types, and don't be afraid to change up your products.
Using an exfoliator that's too rough
Exfoliation is one of the most commonly abused skin care products. Many people equate scrubs with harsh products, not realizing that there are gentle products that still provide more benefits than exfoliation. Rotating brushes are a hot topic with dermatologists and skin care professionals alike. Overdoing it can cause irritation and can lead to inflammation, redness, and even hyperpigmentation.
Use the same exfoliant and expect different results
Skin changes with the seasons and with age. A product that works a lot in the winter won't give you the same results in the summer, so don't be afraid to change things up. A physical exfoliator containing nourishing Jojoba beads is great for the cold and dry months, while a chemical exfoliator with lots of fruit acids and enzymes will help your skin become more supple. radiant when the weather heats up.
One area that is often overlooked when exfoliating is the delicate eye area. We are advised not to use exfoliants there, but vitamin A-free exfoliants can help address fine lines and wrinkles.
Do not apply moisturizer and sunscreen after exfoliation
Exfoliation removes the outermost layers of the skin (dead skin cells), making it especially vulnerable to environmental damage (sun exposure and pollution). Applying sunscreen every morning is the single most important thing you can do to combat visible signs of aging. Before applying sunscreen, apply an antioxidant-rich moisturizer to boost hydration and protect skin.
Exfoliating can help other products like serums and moisturizers work more effectively. Remember to listen to your skin so you'll find an exfoliating routine that works for you.
