How to Exfoliate Your Skin Type Properly and Safely

It doesn’t take rocket science for you to exfoliate your skin properly. In most cases, all you need to do is observe the simple things that should make this a smooth process. For starters, you need to understand what exfoliation is and understand its benefits.

What is Exfoliation?

Exfoliation can be described as the process of removing dead skin cells from the outer layers of your skin. This is usually beneficial in many ways. When you exfoliate your skin, you are getting rid of dullness, boosting blood circulation and brightening your overall skin appearance and complexion.

There are a few recommended ways to exfoliate your skin properly and safely. However, your skin type is the one that determines the method and how often you should exfoliate. For some skin conditions like rosacea, exfoliation is not recommended.

How to Exfoliate Your Skin Type

Luckily for us all, there are enough methods and great tools to exfoliate your skin safely. Regardless of your skin type, you are sure to get rid of the dead cells and possible dullness. You can start with facial scrubs and brushes. These form part of mechanical and physical exfoliation. On the other hand, skin peels and acids are the popular forms of chemical exfoliation. The Golden Body Butter & Salt Scrub Kit from Gold Elements is perfect for the job. This 24-karat gold-infused salt scrub and body butter allow you to scrub your body and moisturize it too, for fresh, vibrant skin.

Types of Exfoliation

Mechanical Exfoliation

Exfoliating brush. This is usually performed through the use of a bristle brush on the face or body. The brush is used to remove every layer of dead skin cells. Alternatively, some can be used for dry brushing or used alongside your facial cleanser.

Exfoliating Sponge: These provide a gentler way to exfoliate your skin. For best results, lather the sponge with warm water, body wash or soap.

Exfoliating Glove: If you are unable to properly grip on sponges or brushes, use a glove instead. Just like the sponge, lather a bit of soap or body wash while in the shower. A glove is great for large areas of your body especially arms and legs.

Exfoliating Scrub: Finally, a scrub can be applied directly to the skin in a gentle, circular motion. Use warm water to wash your skin after scrubbing.

Chemical Exfoliation

Chemical exfoliators can be a bit on the unknown side. Chemical exfoliation mostly utilizes Alpha-hydroxy acids, or (AHAs). Some of the well-known AHAs include glycolic, citric, tartaric and lactic acids. To work, they break apart bonds that connect dead skin and dull skin causing cells on your skin. In time, they exfoliate your skin by triggering a natural process of shedding cells.

Beta-hydroxy acids on the other hand (BHAs) include salicylic and beta hydroxyl acids. Unlike AHAs, these are more popular with people with acne-prone skin.

How Do You Exfoliate Your Skin Type?

If you prefer to exfoliate your skin mechanically, then make sure to be gentle all the way. When applying your scrub of choice, use small, circular motions with just your finger. Of course, you can always use an exfoliating tool if you want. For tools like brushes, however, make short and light strokes to get the job done. Do this for about 30 seconds and rinse with some lukewarm water. To avoid irritation, do not exfoliate if your skin has any visible cuts, wounds, sunburn or openings.

For Dry Skin

Exfoliation is an important skin care process for people with dry and flaky skin. However, due to its nature, dry skin is not fit for all forms of exfoliation. Mechanical exfoliation, for instance, can be drying and also lead to skin tears. Chemical AHAs are more effective for dry skin.

Glycolic acid also offers a safer way to exfoliate your skin if you have a dry texture. It helps remove the dead cells sitting on top of the surface while encouraging healthier results. After scrubbing with glycolic acid, always follow up with a quality moisturizer and sunscreen. This helps protect the skin from possible sun damage that may be caused by regular glycolic acid usage.

For Sensitive Skin

When it comes to sensitive skin, avoid scrubbing with mechanical exfoliators. This is because they can cause further irritation to your skin or cause redness. As such, go for a mild chemical exfoliator and apply it using a gentle washcloth. This helps to exfoliate your skin safely.

For acne skin, you can try using a salicylic acid peel. However, it will be better to consult your dermatologist before trying this method.

For Oily Skin

People with oily or thick skin can enjoy the benefits of manual exfoliation and brushing. Oily skin can usually have an extra layer of buildup which manual exfoliation and brushing can help remove. To perform it properly, use your exfoliator or scrub of choice and apply it in circular motions.

For Normal Skin

Your skin is categorized as normal skin if it doesn’t have any complications. The advantage of having normal skin is the ability to choose any method you wish to exfoliate your skin. You can use both manual and chemical exfoliation to great effect. With such flexibility, you can always experiment to see which method works best for your skin.

For Combination Skin

Just like its name, combination skin can require a mix of both mechanical and chemical exfoliation. However, never use both on the same day to avoid skin irritation. If your skin becomes dry after scrubbing, make sure to use a moisturizer right after.

How Often Can You Exfoliate?

How often you exfoliate your skin depends on a few factors including skin type and method of exfoliation. For instance, some chemical exfoliators can be too strong for different people. As such, dermatologists and skin care experts recommend exfoliating once or twice a week. This is usually enough for dry skin types.

People with oily skin may require just a bit more scrubbing than others. But more does not mean excess. Always avoid over-exfoliating as this can do more harm than good. In most cases, it can cause irritation and redness which is the last thing you want.

If you are stuck on how often you should exfoliate your skin type, talk to a dermatologist for some advice.

Bottom Line

Exfoliating has numerous benefits for your skin and your overall skin care regimen. Scrubbing helps to remove dead skin cells, improve blood circulation and support positive skin turnover. It will also brighten your texture allowing for much brighter skin and effective absorption of moisturizers and serums. Next time you want to exfoliate your skin and get rid of the dullness, follow the tips above and say hello to your new, glowing and more radiant skin.