On social networks, exfoliation is often presented as a necessary step in the skin care routine. While experts agree that there are benefits to proper exfoliation, they also say that it's possible to overdo the process. But how often is it really necessary to exfoliate the face? And what happens if we don't?
What is exfoliation?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead cells from the surface of the skin, according to Dr. Joshua Zeichner, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital.
This process occurs naturally and is part of the skin's life cycle. Usually, the skin regenerates every few weeks and dead cells are replaced by new ones. However, a buildup of dead cells can make skin look dull, says Zeichner. For this reason, some people choose to speed up this process with exfoliators.
There are two types of exfoliators: Physical (or mechanical) and chemical. Physical exfoliators, such as scrubs, often contain harsh particles that "physically remove cells when massaged into the skin," Zeichner explains. This effect can also be achieved with a rough object such as an exfoliating sponge or a towel.
Chemical exfoliators, on the other hand, contain acids that work by "breaking up the bonds between cells, causing them to come away," says Zeichner. Chemical exfoliators often contain alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid or lactic acid.
What are the benefits of exfoliation?
There are many benefits to proper exfoliation, says Dr. Shari Lipner, dermatologist at Weill Cornell Medicine. These include "clearer-looking skin, prevention of clogged pores and therefore acne, and improved penetration of products applied to the skin," she says. It can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin.
While exfoliation is often touted as a way to reduce wrinkles and give skin a youthful appearance, experts are skeptical of this claim.
"I don't think exfoliation will solve the problem of wrinkles," says Dr. Rachel Reynolds, interim chair of dermatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
How often should you exfoliate?
For those who choose to exfoliate, it doesn't have to be part of the daily routine. "No one needs to exfoliate their face every day," says Zeichner. For most people, once or twice a week is enough, he adds.
Lipner suggests that it also depends on skin type. While exfoliating once a week can work for those with oily skin, for those with dry or sensitive skin, she recommends limiting exfoliation to once or twice a month. To see how the skin will react to a product, experts suggest testing on a small area of ??skin before applying it to the entire face. And don't use exfoliators if you have acne, open wounds or sunburn.
"Your skin is already damaged, and exfoliation can lead to further irritation, darkening or fading of the skin, and even scarring," adds Lipner.
Suggested articles:
