Experts warn: Сommon at-home peeling errors that ruin your skin

How to use exfoliants

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, exfoliating removes the outer layer of dead skin cells. These dead cells can make your skin appear dull and dry. Removing them can help your skin look brighter and smoother.

Here are some general guidelines for using exfoliating products:

• Choose an exfoliation method that suits your skin type
• Pay attention to other products you're using, such as retinol or benzoyl peroxide. Exfoliating while using these can cause pain or irritation
• Avoid exfoliating if you have open cuts or wounds
• Apply chemical exfoliants in small circular motions for about 30 seconds. If using a brush or sponge (mechanical exfoliation), use short, light strokes
• Rinse with warm water and gently pat your skin dry
• Apply a moisturizer immediately after exfoliating

Exfoliation by skin type

According to PubMed, your skin type is a crucial factor when selecting an exfoliant. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Sensitive skin. Exfoliation may cause burning or irritation
• Dry skin. Choose products with AHAs like lactic acid or other hydrating ingredients to soothe the skin during exfoliation
• Combination skin. Since this type has dry, normal, and oily areas, look for products formulated specifically for combination skin
• Oily skin. Use BHA-based products such as salicylic acid to help remove excess oil

Post-exfoliation care

Moisturizing

A key step after exfoliation is moisturizing. Any form of exfoliation can weaken the skin's protective barrier; therefore, it's important to restore it with a good moisturizer.
Drinking plenty of water also helps keep your skin hydrated from within.

Use sunscreen

The journal Molecules notes that ingredients such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, and retinoids can increase the skin's sensitivity to light.
After exfoliating, avoid direct sunlight and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher.

Avoid heavy workouts and saunas

Exercise or sauna use increases blood flow to your face. Avoid overheating your skin before or after exfoliating, as this can cause itching, tingling, or irritation.

Common mistakes to avoid

Exfoliation can be beneficial, as it stimulates cell renewal, resulting in smoother skin. However, it can also damage the skin barrier if you make these mistakes:

• Over-exfoliating. Too frequent use can dry out or damage the skin
• Exfoliating damaged skin. Skip areas with wounds or cuts
• Using hot water. It can irritate and further dry out your skin; instead, rinse with cool or lukewarm water

Contact a dermatologist if you experience:

• Rash
• Irritation
• Swelling
• Persistent or worsening redness even after stopping exfoliation.

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.