Exfoliating 101: The Ultimate Guide to Exfoliating

If you're looking to achieve a brighter, smoother, and more radiant complexion, exfoliation should be a key part of your skincare routine. But with so many exfoliating products and techniques available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about exfoliation, from the benefits and different types of exfoliants to how often you should exfoliate and how to do it safely and effectively. Get ready to say hello to beautiful, glowing skin!

Why is using an exfoliator important in skincare?

Exfoliation is an important step in any skincare routine because it helps to remove dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and promote cell turnover. As we age, our skin's natural cell turnover process slows down, which can lead to a buildup of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. This buildup can cause the skin to look dull and rough and can also contribute to acne and other skin issues.

Exfoliating helps to remove this buildup of dead skin cells, allowing fresh, new skin cells to come to the surface. This can result in a smoother, brighter, and more radiant complexion. 

What are common exfoliating ingredients?

• Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)

These are water-soluble acids that work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily sloughed off. Examples of AHAs include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid.

• Beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs)

These are oil-soluble acids that penetrate deep into the pores to unclog them and exfoliate the skin. Salicylic acid is the most common BHA used in skincare.

• Physical exfoliants

These include ingredients like sugar, salt, and jojoba beads that physically scrub away dead skin cells. It's important to use gentle physical exfoliants to avoid damaging the skin.

How to use exfoliator in a right way

• Start with clean, dry skin

Before using an exfoliator, make sure your skin is free of makeup and any other products.

• Choose the right exfoliator

Choose an exfoliator that is appropriate for your skin type and concerns. For example, if you have sensitive skin, you may want to choose a gentle exfoliator, while those with oily skin may benefit from a stronger exfoliating product.

• Follow up with a moisturizer

After exfoliating, it's important to moisturize your skin to help replenish any lost hydration. Choose a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type.

• Don't overdo it!

While exfoliating is an important step in your skincare routine, it's important not to overdo it. Depending on your skin type and concerns, you may only need to exfoliate once or twice a week. Over-exfoliating can lead to dryness, irritation, and other skin issues.

Our favourite Exfoliators

• SKINFOOD Black Sugar Mask Wash Off (100g) - £12.00

You might think that physical exfoliator is too harsh for the skin, but we’d like to share this gentle sugar mask that is full of nutritious skincare ingredients! The unique blend of vitamin-rich Organic Black Sugar granules works to effectively buff away dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reveal a brighter, clearer complexion.

But that's not all – it also contains the deeply nourishing properties of Shea Butter and Macadamia Oil in the formula to help moisturise, nourish, and soften your skin. This mask creates a powerful duo that deeply hydrates your skin, leaving it feeling silky-smooth to the touch.

• NEOGEN Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling - Green Tea (30 Pads) - £26.00

Say goodbye to uneven skin texture and dull complexion with these specially formulated hypoallergenic cotton pads! Designed to gently exfoliate your skin both chemically and physically, the pads contain a unique blend of powerful peeling ingredients that work together to remove stubborn accumulated dead skin cells and pore-clogging impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils.

The result? Smooth, bright, and glass-like skin that radiates with a healthy glow. This product is perfect for those looking for an effective yet gentle exfoliating solution that can be used daily, without causing irritation or redness.

• COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid (100ml) - £24.00

A top-rated skincare product that's renowned for its effectiveness in combating whiteheads and improving overall skin texture. With its gentle yet powerful formula, this liquid has become a go-to solution for many people looking to achieve a clearer, brighter complexion.

Formulated with natural Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), this liquid helps to exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It contains 7% Glycolic Acid and Apple Water, which work together to provide gentle yet effective exfoliation without causing irritation or dryness.

• DR CEURACLE Vegan Kombucha Coffee Bean Body Scrub (200ml) - £26.00

Indulge in the ultimate skincare experience with this luxurious coffee body scrub. Specially formulated to gently exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores, this scrub will leave your skin feeling supple and silky smooth.

Featuring a potent blend of Coffee Seed Powder and Green Tea Extracts, this scrub boasts powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe redness and irritated skin. Not only that, but it also deeply hydrates your skin, leaving it feeling soft, supple, and deeply nourished!