First things first, what is exfoliation, anyway?
Exfoliation is the removal of dead and the oldest skin cells from the topmost layer of skin and can be accomplished via face scrubs, facials or peels.
Now, how often should you exfoliate your face?
Skin should be exfoliated on a consistent and regular basis as dead skin can get trapped on the surface and cause clogged pores, rough skin texture, dullness, and breakouts!
But, no fear – here are three rules of thumb to always follow and consider:
- Beware of over exfoliation– yes, that is a thing!
- If you have sensitive skin – use a gentle scrub.
- If you are new to exfoliation and have sensitive skin, consult your dermatologist.
What Types of Exfoliation Are There?
Typically, there are three types of exfoliation: gentle/mild, moderate/medium and deep. Often, some deep scrubs do double-duty as acne prevention scrubs, too. So, the next big question – how many times should you exfoliate your face, depending on what type of scrub you use? Here’s a breakdown:
Gentle
Gentle exfoliation face scrubs can be used three-to-four times per week and are the mildest face scrubs on the market.
In fact, some gentle face scrubs, such as our Gentle Smoothing Oatmeal variant, also double as a face mask! Ummmm, #winning.
One part scrub, one part mask. Walnut shell powder gently buffs away dull skin when used as a face scrub. Oatmeal and honey inspired us to craft a scrub that can also be used as a face mask. Voilà, a 2-in-1 treat for your skin!
A two-in-one treat for your skin!
Moderate
Moderate face scrubs can be used two-to-three times per week and are great for those with oily or combination skin as well as those with dry skin.
An in-between face scrub for those with various needs, these scrubs leave skin feeling smooth. 🙌🏼
For example, our Soft Skin Avocado & Honey Scrub contains 100% natural exfoliant (walnut shell powder) to smooth away dryness and reveal soft, even skin. The heavenly scent from buttery avocados and manuka honey will delight your senses while the scrub smooths your skin
Deep
Deep face scrubs can be used for any skin type, if you’re looking to get that extra clean. Because they go deeper to unclog pores and detoxify skin of dead skin-buildup, they should be used only a few times a week (follow the pack recommendation).
Our favorites? Definitely our iconic iconic Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub which also comes in an acne control formulation to help reduce breakouts and prevent acne.
100-percent natural walnut shell powder works to leave skin, positively glowing!
Is Exfoliation Good For My Skin?
Yes, it most certainly is. However, there is also such a thing as over exfoliation and too much of a good thing, can be enough.
Skin naturally sheds its top layer, and by exfoliating you are helping your skin along in its natural process. For example, for men, exfoliating helps with facial shaving and can improve uneven skin tone.
However, all of that said, over exfoliation can remove your skin’s natural oils that act as a barrier between icky gunk and the good, good stuff. Ending in a result that is exactly what you were trying to prevent to begin with.
Some signs of over exfoliation include an extra shiny forehead, facial puffiness, excessive breakouts, skin tightness, peeling or flaking. If you notice any of these, stop immediately and let your skin re-align itself.
A great face scrub brings out your inner radiance and evens your skin tone. Just don’t overdo it.
Plus, the best time to exfoliate your face is at night before bed. This way, you can follow-up with a hydrating moisturizer and let all that delish moisture soak on in.