Though skincare “influencers” have gained a strong foothold on social media and online forums, you should be careful about taking advice from anyone who isn’t a licensed professional. That’s why dermatologists and aestheticians work with each patient to develop a treatment plan that addresses their skin’s unique concerns. Review the following skincare recommendations to guide your exfoliation routine and help improve the clarity, texture, and overall appearance of your skin.
Does Everyone Need to Exfoliate?
In short, yes. On average, about 500 million of your skin cells die each day, which can lead to significant buildup if you don’t exfoliate. By clearing away dirt, oil, and other pore-clogging contaminants, facial cleansers are an effective way to keep your skin looking clean and rejuvenated, but exfoliating can take it a step further. Here are several key benefits of regular exfoliation:
– Increased long-term collagen production
– Improved effectiveness of topical skincare products through enhanced absorption
– More elastic skin
– Reduced appearance of fine lines and sagging
– Stimulation of new cell growth, which can lead to healthier-looking skin
Develop a Routine Based on Your Skin Type
Your skin type will determine how often you need to exfoliate, as well as the ingredients in the products you use. Ignoring your skin composition will lead to dryness and other forms of irritation. To determine your skin type, there’s no substitute for scheduling a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist. You can try taking an online quiz, but you’ll almost certainly get inaccurate and conflicting results.
Exfoliation Taboos to Avoid
Regardless of your skin composition, there are many skincare “hacks” that you should avoid, especially the following:
– Don’t use a body scrub on your face because its ingredients won’t have the results you’re expecting. Thoroughly read a product’s label before purchase to confirm its intended use.
– Don’t apply harsh chemicals, including peels, to your face or body immediately after exfoliating. Chemical peels can be a great way to rejuvenate your skin, but a trained professional will be a better judge of when to use a chemical peel and which type your skin needs.
– Don’t scrub too hard because this will damage your skin. The ingredients in an exfoliant will work as intended as long as you follow the directions.
– Don’t forget to moisturize immediately after exfoliating to help restore your skin’s moisture barrier.
Not feeling confident in your current skincare routine? Turn to the licensed dermatologists and aestheticians at The Dermatology Clinic to gain a better understanding of your skin. Our staff will work with you to build a custom routine with products that can help address your biggest skin concerns. Schedule an appointment at one of our locations in the Baton Rouge area by calling (225) 769-7546 today.
