Your skin is in a constant cycle of turnover and rebirthpretty neat, if you ask me.
To literally take matters into your own hands, might we recommend one of these face exfoliators?
Trust: These products may be gentle, but they deliver ultra-glowy results.
What does self-neutralizing mean, you ask?
Feel free to marinate as long as you like.
It’s slightly enzymatic, decadently hydrating, and seriously brightening.
I recommend it to everyone I know.
The former is an AHA that doesnt penetrate as deeply as others.
As if that wasnt enough, the formula also relies on pumpkin enzymes to brighten and smooth the complexion.
This formula was practically made for me.
It’s for those with sensitive skin, but are starting to see signs of aging.
(It’s a tough balance!
This blends together lactic acid, pumpkin enzymes, and gluconic acid (which helps with collagen).
The result is smoother, happier skin.
There’s been an obvious improvement in my overall complexion that goes beyond breakouts.
I feel like my skin absorbs other products better, likely due to the reduction in excess oil.
However, this essence is so gentle and hydrating that I actuallycanuse it every day if I wanted to.
Finally, youll find pomegranate, pumpkin, and papaya enzymes to rid dead skin cells at the surface.
I personally love a good enzyme maskconsider this one supercharged.
As someone who routinely tests a bunch of products, I really appreciate the mask format.
See, with a serum or toner, its easy for some (well, me) to over-exfoliate.
And my partner has officially stolen this one from meits that good.
(kindly dont, but really, the sensorial experience is unmatched!)
Any time my skin looks a littlemeh,I bring out this peel.
Instantly, my complexion looks 10x brighter, smoother, and more even-toned.
I will say, shes a strong onethose with sensitive skin might want to proceed with caution.
I love, love, love a salicylic acid cleanser.
Best peel pad:Sonage Glow to Go Glycolic Acid Peel Pads
Oh, the mightypeel pad.
No, these glycolic acid-infused beauties come buffered with coconut milk and glycerin to simultaneously soothe and hydrate.
As I previously wrote forTalk Of The Team, I wasnt surprised to fall in love with Alpyns exfoliator.
It really is one of the most gentle leave-on treatments Ive usednot even a tingle.
But my skin definitely looks brighter and more even-toned the next morning, so I can tell its working.
This is not one of those clay masks.
Leave it on for 10 minutes, splash with water, and it instantly melts into a creamy foam.
True to its claims, this clay mask feels deliciously creamy on the skin.
Seriously, no tugging or tightness!
Thats a victory in my eyes, as I usually avoid proper clay masks for that very reason.
(And for especially stubborn spots, Ill always slap on aMighty Patch.)
This potent-yet-gentle serum contains AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs to thoroughly resurface skin without stripping it raw.
The superstar derm has done it again!
I love anything from Dr. Bowe, and this serum just adds to the list.
An absolutely stacked formula.
Some might not consider it a scrub at all, but Id argue thats a good thing!
Once emulsified with water, it easily lathers up into a dreamy foam.
A great investment, Id say!
An overnight treatment that puts in the work.
(Think: salt, sugar, jojoba beads, or crushed grains and seeds.)
But I do understand how satisfying it can be to use a physical scrub!
Enzyme
Finally, we have enzymes.
Tips for exfoliating your face
Ready to scrub?
See below for the best derm tips and warnings.
Prep the skin
Your face should be clean, says Yadav.
Of course, you should also protect your skin during the day with SPF.
Moisturize afterwards
Exfoliation without hydration is a recipe for a weakened skin barrier.
After you slough off dead skin, you’ll want to follow up with a quality hydrator.
Feel free to browse theseface creamsfor top-notch barrier support.
Not only can it lead to irritation, but the ingredients may also inactivate each other.
Always stick to gentle, hydrating serums and moisturizers post-exfoliationeven if you only use an exfoliating cleanser.
How often should you exfoliate?
Yes, there is such a thing astoo much exfoliation.
As a general rule: Less is more.
Start slow, and work your way up to a regular cadence as tolerated.
“Those with more mature, dry, or sensitive skin may only want to exfoliate weekly.”
FAQ
Do you exfoliate your face wet or dry?
Most chemical peels are designed to be used on dry skin, says Yadav.
In fact, using them on damp skin may even render them ineffective.
How often should I exfoliate my face?
“Those with more mature, dry, or sensitive skin may only want to exfoliate weekly.”
We suggest reading ourfull exfoliation guideto craft your own perfect cadence.
How do you exfoliate with rosacea?
Azelaic acidis a good choice for those who have rosacea, Yadav notes.
It can help soothe and calm the redness while reducing the bumpy texture associated with rosacea, she adds.
What key in of exfoliant is best?
It all depends on your skin jot down and goals.
Most people do well with AHAs or enzymes, as those are well suited for even sensitive skin.
However, those with oil- or acne-prone skin may want to opt for BHAs to unclog pores.
If youre looking for a gentle scrub, you cant go wrong withTatchas Rice Powder.
Those with sensitive skin might want to try an enzyme formula, likeTata Harpers SUPERKIND Radiance Mask.
And of all the clay confections Ive tried, nothing remains as hydrating as thePore Purity from Hero Cosmetics.
If its a body polish youre after, take a peek atthese skin-softening picks.
