How To Exfoliate Skin According To Different Skin Types

Exfoliation is one of the best things you can do for your skin. It sweeps away dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and leaves your skin looking fresher and brighter. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, different skin types need different exfoliation methods to keep things balanced.

Getting it right can mean the difference between a glowing, healthy complexion and skin that’s irritated, dry, or breaking out. Using our expert skincare know-how, we’ve broken down all you need to know about exfoliating your face along with our recommendations for the best face exfoliators out there.

How to exfoliate skin: the basics

There are two main types of exfoliation you’ll need to know: physical and chemical.

• Physical exfoliation involves using scrubs, brushes, or exfoliating tools to manually buff away dead skin cells. These can be effective but can also be a bit harsh if overused.
• Chemical exfoliation uses ingredients like AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids), and enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells and encourage cell turnover. These can be gentler and more effective, especially for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Regardless of your skin type, over-exfoliating is a no-go. Too much of a good thing can weaken your skin barrier, leading to irritation, redness, dryness, and breakouts. The key is to find a balance, exfoliate just enough to keep your skin smooth and healthy, without overdoing it.

How to exfoliate dry skin

Dry skin can easily become flaky and dull, making exfoliation an essential step. But the last thing you want to do is strip it of moisture even further.

Opt for a hydrating chemical exfoliant like lactic acid, which gently dissolves dead skin while keeping hydration levels in check. Harsh scrubs should be avoided as they can create tiny micro-tears in the skin and make dryness worse.

Instead, stick to gentle exfoliating cleansers or masks that work their magic without irritation. The best approach is to exfoliate one to two times a week and always follow up with a rich, nourishing moisturiser to keep your skin barrier happy.

How to exfoliate sensitive skin

Sensitive skin needs a gentle approach and too much exfoliation, and you’ll be faced with looking at redness, irritation, and a compromised barrier.

Enzyme-based exfoliants and PHAs (Polyhydroxy Acids) are the best options. They work more slowly than AHAs and BHAs, making them less likely to cause irritation. Gritty scrubs and high-strength acids like glycolic acid should be avoided, as they can be too aggressive. To keep sensitive skin calm and comfortable, it’s a good idea to patch-test any new exfoliant before applying it all over. Exfoliating just once a week is enough, and SPF should always be applied afterwards to protect the skin.

How to exfoliate acne-prone skin

For acne-prone skin, exfoliation is key for keeping pores clear and preventing breakouts. But go too hard, and you’ll risk triggering more irritation.

BHAs like salicylic acid are your best friend, as they penetrate deep into pores, clearing out excess oil and debris, whilst harsh physical scrubs should be avoided, as rubbing inflamed skin can make things worse. The ideal routine is to use chemical exfoliants or gentle physical exfoliants two to three times a week, being careful not to overdo it. Pairing exfoliation with soothing ingredients like niacinamide can help to calm the skin and reduce redness.

Final tips for effective exfoliation

Choosing the right exfoliant is essential and should be based on your skin’s needs. Gentle exfoliation works best for dry and sensitive skin, BHA is ideal for acne-prone skin, and hydrating AHAs are great for boosting glow.

Hydration is key after exfoliation, so always follow up with a good moisturiser to replenish the skin barrier. Sun protection should never be skipped regardless if you’re exfoliating your skin or not, but as freshly exfoliated skin is more prone to sun damage, daily SPF is an absolute must.

It’s also important to recognise when to stop. If your skin starts feeling tight, red, or irritated, listen to what it’s telling you and take a break from exfoliation, focus instead on repairing your skin barrier with nourishing skincare. Exfoliation, when done right, can do wonders for the skin. The trick is to be in tune with your skin, use the right products, and never go overboard.