Exfoliation Tips for Glowing Skin: Do’s and Don’ts

It's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your skin gets the maximum benefit from exfoliation. A wrong exfoliation procedure can cause irritation, dryness, and even damage. 

Do's of Exfoliation

Here are the Do’s you need to follow to safely and effectively exfoliate your skin.

Do check the right exfoliant for your skin

Not all exfoliants are made equal, and picking the right one for your skin type can make a big difference in your skincare results. If you have dry or sensitive skin, use a gentle chemical exfoliant like lactic acid, which hydrates while exfoliating. For oily or acne-prone skin, select salicylic acid, an effective option for clearing excess oil and unclogging pores. However, for normal skin types, you may benefit from a physical exfoliant with fine particles that gently scrub away dead skin cells. 

Cetaphil daily exfoliating cleanser is an excellent example of a product that offers exfoliation without being harsh on your skin, keeping it soft and radiant.

Do exfoliate regularly

Consistency is vital in the exfoliation routine, but the frequency depends on your skin type. Dry or sensitive skin may only need to be exfoliated once or twice a week to avoid irritation. On the contrary, those with oily or combination skin can exfoliate more frequently, about three to four times a week. Regular exfoliation prevents dead skin from building up and blocking pores, keeping your skin looking fresh and healthy.

Do exfoliate before bed

Exfoliating your skin in the evening can be particularly beneficial. Your skin undergoes a natural repairing process while you sleep, making nighttime an ideal period to support this rejuvenation by sloughing off dead skin cells. When you exfoliate before bed, you clear away any impurities, dirt, or excess oil accumulated throughout the day, allowing your skin to better absorb your nighttime treatments, such as serums or moisturizers.

To get the most out of your nighttime exfoliation routine, follow it up with a hydrating product like Cetaphil Daily Advance Ultra Hydrating Lotion or a nourishing serum to lock in moisture and repair your skin while you sleep.

Do try SPF

Exfoliation clears the outer layer of dead skin cells, leaving your skin more vulnerable to sun damage. This makes it even more important to apply sunscreen after exfoliating, especially if you’re heading out during the day. Sunscreen shields your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause sunburn, pigmentation, and premature aging. A broad-spectrum sunscreen like Cetaphil Sun SPF 30+ provides essential protection without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.

Always make sure to apply sunscreen even on cloudy days, as UV rays can still penetrate through clouds. Exfoliating your skin without proper sun protection can undo the benefits by causing damage and irritation, so don’t skip this crucial step.

Do listen to your skin

Your skin will give you clear signs if something isn’t right. Redness, irritation, tightness, or discomfort after exfoliation can indicate that you’re either over-exfoliating or using a product that’s too harsh. Adjust your exfoliation routine based on how your skin feels and responds. Some days, your skin may be more sensitive, and skipping exfoliation for a day or two can help it recover.

Consult a dermatologist if you're new to exfoliating or trying a stronger product. Otherwise, the best way to exfoliate your face is to start slowly and gradually increase the frequency as your skin builds tolerance.

Do keep up the rest of your routine

Exfoliation should be part of a complete skincare routine, but it isn’t a stand-alone treatment. After exfoliating your skin, following up with hydrating and nourishing products is vital to keep it healthy and balanced. 

A hydrating toner can help calm the skin, while a moisturizer like Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion seals hydration and protects the skin barrier. Regularly using a good moisturizer post-exfoliation prevents flakiness and helps restore the skin’s natural oils. Also, incorporating a soothing serum or a repairing treatment into your post-exfoliation routine can enhance your skin’s recovery and overall appearance.

Dont's of Exfoliation

Avoid these exfoliation mistakes for healthy, glowing skin:

Don't use harsh scrubs or brushes

It’s tempting to think that a rough scrub will remove more dead skin, but aggressive exfoliation can tear the skin’s surface and lead to irritation, redness, or even micro-tears. Stick to gentler scrubs that use micro-fine granules that won’t scratch your skin.

Don’t keep going if your skin is getting irritated

Stop immediately if you feel your skin stinging or notice redness during or after exfoliation. Your skin is trying to tell you that it's had enough. Continuing the exfoliation routine could cause long-term damage, such as scarring or increased sensitivity.

Don’t exfoliate after a laser treatment or peel

Laser treatments and chemical peels already strip away layers of the skin. Exfoliating your face or body immediately afterwards can lead to over-exfoliation and even burn the skin. Give your skin ample time to heal before resuming your exfoliation routine.

Don't overdo it

More is not always better when it comes to exfoliation. Over-exfoliating can strip off the natural oils from your skin and cause dryness, irritation, and a weakened skin barrier. Stick to a routine based on your skin type, and never exfoliate more than your skin can handle.

Don't combine multiple exfoliating products

If you are using multiple exfoliating products at the same time, it can lead to over-exfoliation. Whether you’re using physical or chemical exfoliants, choose one and stick to it. Mixing products can often result in irritation or excessive dryness.

Don’t wash your face after exfoliating

It’s a common mistake to immediately wash your face after exfoliating. After exfoliation, your skin is more receptive to treatments and moisturizers, and washing it right away will negate the benefits. Instead, apply your hydrating products directly after exfoliation.