Are you tired of dealing with dull, lifeless skin? Using an exfoliant or exfoliator for face and skin can be a game-changer when it comes to achieving a radiant, healthy-looking complexion. But with so many exfoliants on the market, how do you choose the best exfoliator as per your skin type and concerns? We turned to the experts – dermatologists – for their advice on using natural or chemical exfoliators for dry skin, oily skin, and other skin types.

What are the benefits of using a face exfoliator?

Exfoliating is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. It can be done chemically or mechanically, using ingredients or tools like scrubs or brushes. Exfoliating is important because it helps to unclog pores, smooth and even out skin texture, and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

As we age, our skin's natural exfoliation process slows down, leading to a build-up of dead skin cells on the surface. This can cause the skin to look dull and can even lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Exfoliating helps to speed up the skin's natural exfoliation process and can reveal brighter, smoother skin underneath.

What is the best way to exfoliate face and skin?

Not all exfoliants are created equal – some are better suited for certain skin concerns than others. Before trying any new skin care product it is always best to consult a dermatologist. At Clinikally, you can consult dermatologist online hassle free from the comfort of your home. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types of face exfoliants.

Using chemical exfoliants for face

Chemical exfoliants, also known as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), use ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells and reveal the healthy, glowing skin beneath. Chemical exfoliants can be found in toners, serums, and peels, and are suitable for all skin types.

They can be gentler on the skin than physical exfoliants, which use ingredients like beads or grains to scrub the skin. These products can be effective at penetrating the pores and reaching deeper layers of the skin, making them a good choice for people with oily or acne-prone skin. They can also be suitable for people with sensitive skin, since they don't involve the physical friction that can sometimes be irritating. Just be sure to use sunscreen when using chemical exfoliants, as they can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Using mechanical exfoliants for face

Mechanical exfoliants use physical tools or ingredients, like grains or beads, to scrub away dead skin cells. Popular mechanical exfoliants include scrubs, brushes, and sponges. These types of exfoliants are best for those with oily or combination skin, as they can be too harsh for those with dry or sensitive skin.

Mechanical exfoliants can be a good choice for people with tougher, thicker skin or for those who prefer a more physical method of exfoliation. It's important to use these products gently, as over-exfoliating can irritate or damage the skin. It's also important to choose a product with appropriate-sized beads or grains for your skin type and to avoid using them on broken or irritated skin. Some people may find that mechanical exfoliants can be more drying to the skin, so it's important to follow up with a moisturizer after use.

Homemade scrub for glowing skin

Many people try to use a homemade scrub for glowing skin. However, this will not work if you are using ingredients not suited for your skin type. Therefore, dermatologists often recommend skincare products that will help in exfoliating your face and other parts of the skin safely and effectively.

How to choose a chemical exfoliant for face

The best exfoliant is the one that is suited for your skin type. So, you can consult dermatologists online to discover the best chemical exfoliants for your face and other parts of the skin.

Best exfoliator for oily or acne-prone skin

If you have acne-prone skin, exfoliating can be a helpful way to remove excess oil and dead skin cells that can contribute to breakouts. However, it's important to choose an exfoliant that is gentle and non-irritating, as harsh or abrasive exfoliants can actually make acne worse. Chemical exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), can be effective at penetrating the pores and removing excess oil without being too harsh on the skin. Physical exfoliants, such as scrubs or brushes, may be too abrasive and should be used sparingly or avoided altogether. It's also important to follow a regular skincare routine and use non-comedogenic products to help prevent new breakouts from forming.

Best exfoliator for dry/sensitive skin

Exfoliating can be a great way to remove dead skin cells and improve the overall appearance of dry or sensitive skin. However, it's important to choose an exfoliant that is gentle and non-irritating to avoid further drying or irritation. Chemical exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or enzymes, can be a good choice for people with dry or sensitive skin as they are typically more gentle and less abrasive than physical exfoliants. It's important to start with a low concentration and frequency of use, gradually increasing as your skin becomes accustomed to the product. Avoid using physical exfoliants, such as scrubs or brushes, on dry or sensitive skin, as they can be too harsh and irritate the skin. It's also important to follow up with a moisturizer after exfoliating to help hydrate and nourish the skin

Best exfoliator for ageing skin

As we age, our skin's natural exfoliation process slows down, leading to the buildup of dead skin cells on the surface. Exfoliating can help to remove these dead skin cells and improve the overall appearance of aging skin. Chemical exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), can be effective at improving the texture and tone of aging skin. Physical exfoliants, such as scrubs or brushes, may be too harsh and abrasive for aging skin and should be used sparingly or avoided altogether. It's important to choose an exfoliant that is suitable for your skin type and to follow a regular skincare routine to help maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin. It's also important to use a moisturizer and sunscreen to help protect and nourish the skin.

How to exfoliate skin: Step-by-step guide

It's important to not overdo it when it comes to exfoliating. How often you exfoliate will depend on your skin type and the exfoliant you're using. Generally, it's safe to exfoliate one to three times per week. If you have sensitive skin or are using a strong exfoliant, you may want to start with once a week and gradually increase the frequency as your skin adjusts.

It's also important to remember to follow up with a moisturizer after exfoliating to help nourish and protect the skin. And always be sure to use sunscreen during the day, as exfoliating can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. If you're not sure how often you should exfoliate, it's always best to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional. They can assess your skin type and recommend the right exfoliating frequency and products for your specific needs.

Overall, the key is to find a balance that works for your skin. Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells and improve the texture and appearance of your skin, but over-exfoliating can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause irritation and other skin issues. So be sure to pay attention to how your skin feels and looks, and adjust your exfoliating routine accordingly.

Exfoliate for a fresh, radiant flow!

You can easily get brighter and more radiant skin by using a natural or chemical exfoliant for face. You can find suitable skincare products online, or even better- get an online dermatologist consultation to find out how to exfoliate your skin for a fresh, youthful look.