To exfoliate or not to exfoliate, that is the question. Exfoliation can be a highly beneficial step in your everyday skincare routine. However, like more concerns regarding the skin, always lead with caution. Using aggressive exfoliates can lead to you having dry, red or even inflamed skin. This is because your natural oils are being stripped, which are the protective barrier against bacteria and other harmful aggressors.
In this article, we will be looking at ways that you can exfoliate regularly, without stripping those all important skin oils.
Don’t Over Exfoliate
Exfoliating can sometimes be a little tough on the skin. Whilst also swapping out your more aggressive exfoliating product for a softer one – it’s important not to over exfoliate.
For normal skin types, we recommend exfoliating your skin two to three times a week, but only if you feel your skin is reacting well to it. As soon as you notice any redness appear on the face, signs of peeling or a tingling sensation, you should cut back. Again, if your skin seems dryer than normal then try only exfoliating your face twice a week.
Exfoliating the skin helps remove any dead skin cells you may have and promotes a healthy turnover of these cells. This has many positive effects on your skin, such as leaving it brighter and more radiant looking.
When you over-exfoliate, it can lead to your skin feeling rough, dehydrated and even looking patchy in some areas. This is because your skin has lost the ability to absorb the moisture you have been putting on it, which can mean it will begin to flake as well around the nose and lips.
Consistency is Key
Exfoliating regularly can be extremely beneficial when it comes to removing dry skin, increasing the blood circulation of the face as well as brightening the skin. In addition to this, exfoliating also stimulates collagen production. Skin will appear firmer and removing all of the dead skin cells makes way for the new, healthy and plump cells to take their place.
Having a consistent skincare routine, including an exfoliation step, allows for you to up-keep the removal of any dead skins from your outer layers and also, can be extremely beneficial when it comes to replenishing your complexion, giving you that more radiant glow we are all after.
If you have slightly more oily skin, it’s imperative that you find an exfoliator that matches what you need. We recommend using the Obagi Nu-Derm Fx® Exfoderm® Forte, an exfoliant that has been formulated to specifically target Normal to Oily skin.
Don’t Forget to Moisturise
After exfoliating the skin, it’s essential to nourish your skin afterwards. Always moisturise with a product that suits your skin type after your exfoliation step to ensure that you are protecting the important oils your skin produces.
If one of your top skin concerns is to target signs of ageing, we recommend the Obagi-C® Fx Exfoliating Day Lotion. The gentle and lightweightness of this hydrating exfoliant is perfect for people with slightly more sensitive or dryer skin. Ideal for everyday use, this skincare product will help you obtain optimum results whilst also exfoliating regularly.
