Exfoliate but give the X to Over-exfoliate!
I was recently looking at the recommended directions on several exfoliating products regarding the suggested number of times to Exfoliate per week. Many recommend about 3-4 times per week. Is that really necessary or is a company just trying to sell products?
While the process of Exfoliation is a very important component in a skin care regimen, I have found it is important not to “over-exfoliate” the skin, as well as combine too many exfoliating products, both of which could cause irritation the skin.
Exfoliation helps to improve the skin’s appearance by removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Removing excess dead skin cells helps to rejuvenate the skin by revealing younger and healthier-looking skin underneath. When we are younger, the cell turnover is a natural process, and is why our skin looks healthy and taut. As we age, old skin cells remain on the surface which can give that (ugghh!) “dull appearance.” Additionally, these layers of dead skin cells can form a barrier which interferes with the hydrating and nourishing effects of moisturizers.
Methods of Exfoliation
Exfoliation is most often achieved through a mechanical or chemical means. Mechanical exfoliants, such as facial and body scrubs, are generally available in over-the-counter products and applied by the user. Chemical exfoliants, such as Glycolic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy Acid), Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid), and Vitamin A products, may be applied in high concentrations by a dermatologist, or in lower concentrations in over-the-counter products. The cosmetic procedures Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion are strong methods of exfoliation where the surface layer of skin is removed as if by sanding.
Beauty Beat recommends keeping it simple. If use an alpha hydroxy acid, then do not use, for instance, Retin A. And, unless directed by a prescription, in order to obtain the best results from exfoliation, it may be better to exfoliate the skin 1-2 times per week.
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