Exfoliating your skin is important to do regularly in order to remove dead skin cells and allow new, fresh cells to regenerate. There are a lot of different products on the market that claim to be the best for exfoliation, but not all of them are created equal. In this blog post, we’ll break down some of the best ingredients to look for in an exfoliating product, as well as how often you should exfoliate and what to avoid.
The Best Ingredients for Exfoliating Your Skin
There are a lot of different ingredients that can be effective for exfoliation, but some are better than others. Two of the most important things to look for are AHAs and BHAs. AHAs, or alpha hydroxy acids, help to loosen the bonds between dead skin cells so that they can be more easily removed. Common AHAs include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid. BHAs, or beta hydroxy acids, penetrate deeper into the pores and help to break down sebum and other oils that can lead to breakouts. The most common BHA is salicylic acid. Other helpful ingredients include enzymes, as well as jojoba beads or other physical exfoliants.
Salicylic Acid
One of the most popular exfoliating ingredients is salicylic acid. This beta hydroxy acid helps to break down dead skin cells and unclog pores. It’s an ideal choice for those who have oily or acne-prone skin. Just be sure to start slowly if you’re new to using salicylic acid, as it can be drying if you use too much.
Glycolic Acid
If you’re looking for an ingredient that will help to brighten your complexion, glycolic acid is a great choice. This alpha hydroxy acid penetrates deeply into the skin to break up surface pigment and reveal brighter, healthier skin. Glycolic acid can be used on all skin types, but those with sensitive skin may want to start with a lower concentration and work up.
Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is another alpha hydroxy acid that’s beneficial for both dry and sensitive skin types. Unlike other exfoliating acids, lactic acid is hydrating, so it won’t leave your skin feeling tight and dry after use. Lactic acid also helps to stimulate collagen production, making it a good choice for those who are concerned about signs of aging.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that can help to fight acne-causing bacteria. It’s also gentle enough for sensitive skin types. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for an exfoliating product that contains tea tree oil as one of its main ingredients.
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
For most people, once or twice a week is sufficient. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to start with once a week and increase as your skin gets used to it. If you have oily skin, you may be able to exfoliate more frequently without issue. Just be sure not to overdo it, as this could lead to irritation or even breakouts. And if you have dry skin, be sure to follow up with a moisturizer after exfoliating.
What to Avoid When Exfoliating
While there are a lot of helpful ingredients that can be found in exfoliating products, there are also some that you should avoid. These include alcohols, fragrance, sulfates, and other harsh chemicals. These ingredients can irritate or dry out your skin, so it’s best to steer clear of them altogether.
Exfoliating 101
Exfoliating your skin is an important part of any skincare routine. By regularly removing dead skin cells, you allow new ones to regenerate more quickly. This can help your skin look brighter and more radiant. There are a lot of different products on the market that claim to be good for exfoliation, but not all of them are. Be sure to look for products that contain AHAs and/or BHAs, enzymes like papain or bromelain, and jojoba beads or other physical exfoliants. And avoid products with alcohols, fragrance, and other harsh chemicals. Lastly, don’t forget to follow up with a moisturizer if you have dry skin!