Homemade Exfoliating Facial Scrub -

Your skin sheds cells constantly, and that’s a good thing both for your health and your makeup application. Without your body replenishing your skin, you’d have layers of dead skin cells on top, making your complexion look dull, dry, and cakey. That’s where skin exfoliation comes in to save the day!

What is Exfoliation?

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the outer layer of your skin. When done correctly, exfoliation leaves your skin clear, glowing, and healthy. Many different skin products advertise their exfoliation. However, dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology say that it can do more harm than good if it’s not done properly.

“For some people, exfoliation can actually make their skin worse – with increased redness or acne breakouts,” said board-certified dermatologist Rebecca Clare Tung, MD, FAAD, associate professor of dermatology, Loyola University Medical Center. “If you choose to exfoliate, it’s important to do so safely so that it does not damage your skin.”

What is My Skin Type?

Different skin types need unique methods of exfoliation. It’s important to consider you skin type before you try at home face exfoliation as not every type of exfoliation will work for every skin type, says Dr. Tung.

If you have sensitive skin, it may sting or burn after product use. Try to learn what causes irritation and avoid those triggers.
Normal skin is clear with few imperfections, barely noticeable pores, and not sensitive to products
Dry skin is flaky, itchy, or rough with very small pores. Lines are more visible in dry skin.
Oily skin tends to be shiny and greasy with enlarged pores, more blemishes and blackheads.
Combination skin is usually dry in some areas and oily in others. Most commonly the T zone (nose, forehead, and chin) may be more oily than other parts of your face.

Take a look at your skin and figure out which skin type you have because “Understanding your skin type will help you choose an exfoliation method that best suits your skin,” said Dr. Tung.

DIY Exfoliation

There are two types of at-home exfoliation, mechanical, and chemical. Dr. Tung recommends using your skin type to determine which to use.

Mechanical exfoliation: uses a tool, such as a brush, sponge, or scrub to physically remove dead skin. The tool scrubs dead skin from your face.

Chemical exfoliation: uses chemicals to gently dissolve the dead skin on your face. Common chemicals used for exfoliation included alpha and beta hydroxy acids.

Which Type of Exfoliation Suits Your Skin Type?

For Dry, Sensitive, or Acne-Prone Skin

A washcloth or a mild chemical exfoliator may be the best option for those with dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin. A mechanical exfoliator is often too irritating for these skin types. Look for ingredients such as salicylic, lactic, and glycolic acid, which can unclog pores and reduce acne inflammation without aggravating skin.

For Oily or Combination Skin

If you have oily or combination skin, you may want to use a stronger chemical treatment or a mechanical exfoliator. However, if you have a darker skin tone or notice dark spots on your skin after burns, bug bites, or acne breakouts, do not use strong chemical or mechanical exfoliation. Exfoliation may cause darker spots on your skin.

How to Exfoliate Your Skin

Be gentle to your skin: When you use a scrub or chemical exfoliator, use gentle, small, circular motions to apply the product. After about 30 seconds, rinse off with lukewarm, not hot, water. When using a brush or sponge, use short, light strokes. Do not exfoliate if you have open cuts or wounds or if you are sunburned.
Follow with moisturizer: Exfoliating can dry out your skin, so be sure to apply a moisturizer immediately after exfoliating. This will help keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

How Often Should You Exfoliate

How often you exfoliate depends on your skin type and exfoliation method. Generally, the more aggressive the exfoliation, the less often it needs to be done. Also, if you have dry or sensitive skin, you should not exfoliate more than once or twice a week. If you have oily or combination skin, exfoliating two or three times a week may be more appropriate. Be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this could lead to skin that is red and irritated.

According to Dr. Tung, you also should consider what products you already use. Some medications and over-the-counter products may cause your skin to be more sensitive, such as retinoid creams or products containing retinol or benzoyl peroxide. Exfoliating while using these products may worsen dry skin or even cause acne products.

“If you aren’t sure what skin type you have, or if you have questions about exfoliating your skin, see a board-certified dermatologist,” said Dr. Tung. “A dermatologist can evaluate your skin and help you decide if exfoliation is beneficial for you.”