What is exfoliation, and why is it important?

In terms of skin care, exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells. You can achieve this removal with a physical exfoliant like a scrub or brush or by using a chemical exfoliant, which may use an acidic chemical such as glycolic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid) to remove dead skin cells.

This is an important step regardless of skin type, because even though the skin renews itself every 30 days or so, sometimes the uppermost dead skin cells are not completely removed naturally. Exfoliation helps clear these excess dead surface cells so the underlying new skin cells are revealed. Exfoliating the skin — including the lips— helps smooth skin texture and may also help prevent the development of dry, flaky skin. If you're looking for anti-aging benefits, you should exfoliate because it can help improve skin radiance, texture and clarity, and can also reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles for younger-looking skin.

What if I use retinol products? Does that change how I should exfoliate?

Yes! If you’re using a retinol product, we don’t recommend using exfoliation products while your skin is still in the retinization period, as this may increase potential discomfort. After the retinization process and skin has adjusted, you can use exfoliation products on the evenings you are not using retinol. If you experience skin discomfort, scale back the use of exfoliants as tolerated by your skin.

Is it possible to overexfoliate my skin?

Absolutely! We recommend exfoliating only two or three times per week, and always massage in physical scrubs gently. Rigorous scrubbing could remove too much skin and could result in redness and irritation. And if you use chemical peels, only use them as directed since overexposure could also irritate the skin.

You should always stop if your skin feels irritated. And this applies to you even if you aren’t using retinol. No matter what the rest of your routine looks like, don’t exfoliate too often or more intensely than you should.

Do I need to exfoliate my body, too, or just my face and lips?

All healthy skin can benefit from exfoliation. Exfoliating your elbows, knees and feet can be especially beneficial to prevent dry, flaky skin. Do not exfoliate broken or irritated skin on your body. And while exfoliating before applying self-tanner helps you achieve a more even application since it helps ensure the skin surface is uniform, I don’t recommend using a body exfoliator before or after shaving since both procedures can potentially irritate the skin. And contrary to popular belief, body exfoliation doesn’t help with ingrown hairs. A better approach would be to shave in the morning, then exfoliate with a body scrub in the evening.

Product Suggestions:

• Full-Body Exfoliation: Satin Body^® Revitalizing Shea Scrub is a great full-body scrub for sloughing off dead skin, especially since it’s formulated with nourishing shea butter. You can even use it as a foot scrub!
• Exfoliating Hand Care: Get softer, smoother hands with the Fragrance-Free Satin Hands^® Pampering Set for a relaxing at-home spa experience. It’s also available in a soothing White Tea & Citrus scent.
• Exfoliating Lip Care: Leave dry, chapped lips behind while delivering moisturizing bliss in two easy steps with the White Tea & Citrus Satin Lips^® Set.

What about acne? Can I still exfoliate if I have acne?

Yes! People with acne-prone skin can exfoliate their skin. In fact, it may be beneficial because it may help clear pores. However, it’s crucial to avoid exfoliating active lesions or pimples and to consult with a board-certified dermatologist before using an exfoliating product.

DID YOU KNOW?

Salicylic acid, a common ingredient in skin care products for acne-prone skin, is an exfoliating ingredient known for acne-fighting. It helps remove dead skin cells and helps keep pores unclogged to reduce buildup of P. acnes bacteria on acne-prone skin.

Product Suggestion:

• Exfoliating With Salicylic Acid: Clear Proof^® Blemish Control Toner* contains 2% salicylic acid and tones without overdrying, cleanses skin completely and helps control shine. Plus, it leaves skin feeling soft and supple.

Can I still exfoliate if I have to wear a face mask?

If wearing a mask irritates your skin, I don’t recommend exfoliating or using any products that have the potential to further irritate the skin immediately prior to wearing one. In general, it is best to exfoliate at night so the skin is not exposed to any new irritants while it repairs.