If you are waking up in the morning, looking in the mirror and thinking your skin looks tired, dull and lackluster then you are not alone. Exfoliation is the key to unlocking your skin’s true potential, and a crucial step in any skincare routine.
By regularly shedding away dead skin cells, you’re revealing a fresh, luminous layer underneath. In this blog, we are going to take you through how to exfoliate properly.
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What Does Exfoliating Your Skin Mean?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. It’s like giving your skin a deep clean, revealing the fresh, new skin cells underneath. This process helps to improve your skin’s texture, reduce dullness, and enhance the absorption of your skincare products.
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
The golden rule for exfoliation is simple. Less is more. Over-exfoliating can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation and even breakouts. So how often you should exfoliate depends very much on your skin type. You should listen to your skin, but here are some guidelines:
- Oily Skin: You might be tempted to exfoliate more often, but stick to 2-3 times a week.
- Dry Skin: Limit exfoliation to once a week or every other week to avoid further dryness.
- Sensitive Skin: Start with once every two weeks and gradually increase if your skin tolerates it.
- Normal Skin: 2-3 times a week is generally suitable.
But, as we said at the start, remember that these are just guidelines. Let your skin lead the way and adjust accordingly.
"The scent is amazing (Oatmeal Milk & Honey)! Left my skin soft and exfoliated with first use." - Kimberly L. |
What Happens if You Don’t Exfoliate?
Skipping exfoliation might not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to several skin issues. Treating exfoliation as an optional step in your skincare routine can lead to some of the below issues:
- Dull Skin: Dead skin cells build up on the surface, giving your skin a lackluster appearance.
- Clogged Pores: Dead skin cells can trap dirt and oil, leading to blackheads and whiteheads.
- Uneven Skin Texture: Regular exfoliation helps to smooth out rough patches.
- Decreased Product Absorption: Dead skin cells can act as a barrier, preventing your skincare products from penetrating effectively.
 "These two combos in one is an amazing cleaning tool for your body. The Tea Tree smells refreshing and the luffa adds a nice exfoliation all in one." - Sarah P. |
For all of the above reasons, and the benefits of glowing radiant skin, you shouldn’t ignore the need to regularly exfoliate.
How Should You Chemically Exfoliate Properly?
Chemical exfoliation uses acids (like alpha-hydroxy or beta-hydroxy acids) to dissolve dead skin cells. It’s generally gentler than physical exfoliation and more suitable for sensitive skin.
When you are looking to chemically exfoliate, you should start with the below process:
- Start with skin that has been gently cleansed and lightly dried. You should aim to use a cleanser that does not contain any chemical exfoliants. You should also avoid retinoids or vitamin C immediately after your chemical exfoliation, as these can bring about irritation.
- Take a small amount of your chemical exfoliant and lather a thin layer over the length of your face, of course avoiding the eyes.
- Let the exfoliant sit and absorb into your skin for about 20-30 seconds. If you begin to feel any stinging or burning then splash your face with water.
- Gently rinse the chemical exfoliant off your skin and then lightly pat to dry.
- Support your skin barrier with a hydrating moisturizer.
"I finally found something that has been keeping my acne at bay. After using this Tea Tree soap for two weeks (consistently day + night), I have noticed almost a 95% reduction in my acne. I do believe this does work for exfoliation also because I used to have dry flakes around my nose area/eyebrows and no longer do." - Thalia J. |
How Should You Physically Exfoliate Properly?
If you do not want to exfoliate with chemicals, then you should try physically exfoliating. Physical exfoliation involves using a scrub or tool to manually remove dead skin cells. This method can be more aggressive, so it is important to choose a gentle exfoliant and be gentle with your skin.
When you want to physically exfoliate, you should start with the below process:
- Start the exfoliating process with skin that has been gently cleansed and is slightly damp. Take a small amount of a scrub and apply with gentle pressure to the face in a circular motion. Do this with the strongest areas of focus being around the chin, nose and forehead; being especially careful around the undereye area and other delicate areas.
- Continue to work the scrub into the skin for somewhere between 30 seconds and 60 seconds.
- Wash the scrub off your skin gently, and lightly pat dry, and finish the exfoliation treatment with a hydrating moisturizer which will support the reforming and strengthening of the skin's natural barrier.
"I love this (Peppermint Luffa) soap! I can exfoliate as I clean. The smell is great, too. I have been using Goat Milk Stuff soaps for a couple years now and love how it makes my skin feel!" - Laura B. |
Why Should You Utilize Goat Milk Soap in Your Exfoliation Routine?
While goat milk soap isn’t a dedicated exfoliant, it can be a gentle and effective addition to your skincare routine. This is largely due to the lactic acid, and natural alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), which can help provide your skin with the much needed hydration after your skin has been scrubbed.
"I have used the Lavender Luffa several times since ordering it and I love it! The scent is wonderful and the Luffa is just enough to feel like I'm getting a good exfoliating of the skin and leaves my skin feeling super soft." - Lori S. |
The richness of vitamins (such as Vitamin A) and minerals that nourish the skin, will help you to keep your skin happy and healthy, giving you confidence in your skin and its radiant look.