That’s why the dermatologists we spoke to advocate beginning with a once-a-week routine and taking note of whether or not or not your pores and skin feels infected, itchy, or painful. If it doesn’t, you may step by step enhance to 2 or (in case your pores and skin feels notably greasy) thrice every week—on alternate days, Dr. Castilla says.
Once more, salicylic acid is a wonderful alternative—it’s anti-inflammatory and works by decreasing the manufacturing of sebum (oil) that contributes to clogged pores, Dr. Lebowitz provides.9, 10 They each additionally advocate glycolic acid, which has been proven to enhance pimples.5, 11
Eczema or rosacea-prone pores and skin
Should you’re coping with both of those continual inflammatory circumstances, it’s vital to see a board-certified dermatologist about how usually—if in any respect—it’s best to exfoliate. “I wouldn’t advocate doing it at dwelling except you focus on it along with your physician first,” Dr. Castilla says She particularly cautions in opposition to bodily scrubs (which, once more, might be notably abrasive).
Individuals who have eczema are already coping with a broken pores and skin barrier, which explains signs like cracking or peeling, so over-exfoliating can set off flare-ups, per the Nationwide Eczema Affiliation. Equally, rosacea-prone people have extremely delicate and simply irritated pores and skin, which is why overdoing it may possibly enhance redness, burning, and/or stinging.
That doesn’t imply exfoliants are fully off-limits, although. Simply ensure that to speak to a dermatologist or your main care supplier, when you’ve got one. These consultants can present extra customized (and protected) steerage, Dr. Castilla says.
What’s one of the best methodology for exfoliating your face?
Let’s begin with bodily exfoliation merchandise. Most of them are cleansers, so it’s best to use them on damp pores and skin, per Dr. Lebowitz. She additionally recommends making use of them gently and in round motions (as you usually would when washing your face) and rinsing completely whenever you’re executed. Oh, and keep away from dry brushing altogether—Dr. Castilla and Dr. Lebowitz agree that it’s too harsh for the delicate cheeks, brow, and eye space.
Chemical exfoliants, alternatively, are meant for dry pores and skin (after cleaning) and must be used at night time, in keeping with each dermatologists. The pores and skin naturally repairs itself when you sleep, Dr. Castilla explains, so exfoliating earlier than mattress can assist this course of by eradicating the outer layer of useless cells, permitting new ones to return to the floor extra simply.12 (Plus, no matter which acid you employ, exfoliating throughout the day could make your freshly buffed face extra weak to solar harm.)13
Whether or not you bodily or chemically exfoliate, it’s best to keep away from utilizing sturdy actives, like extra exfoliating acids, pimples therapies, retinol, different retinoids, or vitamin C, on the similar time—all of which might be harsh and will enhance sensitivity.14 It’s additionally a good suggestion to keep away from added fragrances, which may equally trigger irritation, in keeping with the American Academy of Dermatology.
As an alternative, go for serums and moisturizers with mild, hydrating components like soothing niacinamide, ceramides, glycerin, and/or hyaluronic acid, Dr. Castilla and Dr. Lebowitz say. This strategy will assist make sure that your face stays calm and completely happy. However keep in mind to cease if you happen to’re coping with persistent burning, ache, or rash-like signs that final various hours.1 (These, Dr. Lebowitz explains, are indicators of a potential allergic response.)