can we exfoliate daily - #15186
I am really confused about skincare stuff lately, and I'm hoping someone can help me. My friend was raving about her glowing skin and mentioned how she exfoliates daily, which sounds kinda intense, right? Like, can we really exfoliate daily or is that bad for our skin? I remember trying a scrub once a week, but my skin always felt super sensitive after. I had a few patches of dryness and redness after I tried to exfoliate more frequently, so I backed off. Now my skin feel dull and lifeless, and I need help figuring this out. I mean, if daily exfoliation is an option, how do I even start? Should I be looking for certain ingredients or types of scrubs? Is it different for different skin types? My friend said she’s using a chemical exfoliant, which sounds fancy, but I’m worried my sensitive skin can handle that. I feel like I need some kind of guidance here. Seriously, can we exfoliate daily without turning our faces into sandpaper? Just to clarify, what do y'all think about daily exfoliation versus weekly? Can it even help or am I just chasing my own tail here?
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Doctors' responses
Daily exfoliation can be quite intense for many people and isn’t generally recommended for everyone, especially if you have sensitive skin or have experienced dryness and redness from exfoliation before. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells on the surface of your skin, which can reveal a brighter complexion. However, if overdone, it can strip away your skin’s natural oils, leading to irritation and further sensitivity. The type of exfoliant used plays an important role here. There are physical exfoliants, like scrubs, and chemical exfoliants, such as AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids). For those with sensitive skin, chemical exfoliants are often a better option as they’re generally more gentle. If you decide to try chemical exfoliants, products containing lactic acid (an AHA) or salicylic acid (a BHA) might be beneficial, as they tend to be less harsh. Start by using these products once or twice a week, gradually increasing frequency only if your skin tolerates it well. It’s crucial to pay attention to how your skin responds; stop or reduce frequency if you notice signs of irritation. Also, remember to always follow up with a good moisturizer and sunscreen, as exfoliation can make your skin more vulnerable to the sun’s rays. Every individual’s skin is different, and what works for your friend might not work for you. If in doubt, it could be helpful to consult with a dermatologist to tailor a suitable skincare plan for your skin type and concerns.
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