Understanding & Managing Over-Exfoliation
Exfoliation is essential for maintaining radiant skin, but overdoing it can harm your complexion. Here’s how to identify and address over-exfoliation while maintaining an effective skincare routine.
TYPES OF EXFOLIATION
Physical Exfoliation: Involves scrubbing or using products with granules to manually remove dead skin cells.
Chemical Exfoliation: Uses ingredients like enzymes, AHAs and BHAs to dissolve dead skin cells.
SIGNS OF OVER-EXFOLIATION
Tightness or Dryness: Indicates excessive stripping of natural oils.
Changes in Texture: Skin may become rough and flaky.
Redness or Irritation: Common signs include redness, irritation, and small bumps.
Increased Oil Production: Over-exfoliated skin may produce more oil to compensate for lost moisture.
Breakouts or Acne: Can occur from disrupted pH balance or inflamed acne lesions.
Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to environmental stressors and sun damage.
CAUSES OF OVER-EXFOLIATION
Excessive Frequency: Using deep-penetrating exfoliators more than twice a week.
Harsh Products: Employing overly strong physical or chemical exfoliants.
Multiple Exfoliants: Combining several exfoliating products in one routine.
Inadequate Hydration: Not following up with appropriate moisturization.
SOLUTIONS FOR OVER-EXFOLIATED SKIN
Take a Break: Allow your skin to recover by pausing exfoliation for at least a week.
Switch to Gentle Exfoliators: Opt for products with calming ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.
Book a Professional Treatment: Consider facials focused on repairing and nourishing your skin.
Hydrate and Moisturize: Use soothing moisturizers like Epicutis Hyvia Creme, or Glymed+ Recovery Cream with Arnica or Barrier Repair Cream to restore the skin barrier.
Gradually Reintroduce Exfoliation: Restart exfoliating with a lower frequency and adjust based on your skin’s response.
BEST PRACTICES FOR PREVENTING OVER-EXFOLIATION
Choose the Right Exfoliator: Tailor exfoliation products to your skin type; oily skin may benefit from stronger exfoliants, while dry or sensitive skin should use gentler options.
Avoid Overuse: Stick to exfoliating once or twice a week.
Be Gentle: Avoid harsh scrubbing, whether with physical or chemical exfoliants.
Follow with Hydration: Always hydrate after exfoliation to protect and nourish your skin.
Monitor Your Skin: Pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust your routine as needed.
Balance is crucial for healthy skin. If you’re uncertain about your exfoliation routine, consult your Licensed Esthetician for more personalized advice. Betsy is always here to help!
