As many people know, a great skincare routine is incomplete without a regular rhythm of the best face exfoliants—but why? What does exfoliating do, and what’s the best way to do it? As with many skincare-related questions, the answer depends on your goals and skin type.
What is Exfoliation?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin to reveal a smoother, brighter, and healthier-looking complexion. Our skin naturally sheds old cells as new ones form, but sometimes this process slows down, leaving behind a buildup that can make the skin appear dull, rough, or uneven. By exfoliating, you help speed up this renewal cycle and encourage fresh skin to surface, which not only improves texture but also allows skincare products to absorb more effectively.
There are several ways to exfoliate, each offering its own benefits. Physical exfoliation involves using scrubs, brushes, or exfoliating tools to manually buff away buildup, while chemical exfoliation relies on ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to gently dissolve dead skin cells. Enzymatic exfoliation, often derived from fruits like papaya or pineapple, provides another gentle option for those with sensitive skin. Whether you prefer the instant smoothness of a scrub or the gradual refinement of a chemical exfoliant, the goal is the same: to uncover fresher skin and promote a radiant glow.
Exfoliation Techniques
Because exfoliation is a bit more aggressive than your best daily cleanser, it’s important to know the proper way to use exfoliators, peels, and polishes to avoid irritating or damaging skin. Most importantly, unless you have oily skin, it's best to limit deep exfoliating to once or twice a week.
Your choice of exfoliator is mostly a matter of preference. However, it’s worth taking a moment to assess your natural skin type, whether sensitive, combination, or normal, before buying the first scrub you see.
Exfoliating the Legs and Arms
The skin on the legs and arms can often feel rough or appear dry, especially during colder months or after frequent shaving. Regular exfoliation helps remove the buildup of dead skin cells, leaving the skin smoother and more radiant. Because this skin is generally less sensitive than other areas, body scrubs like Mint Renewal White Sand Body Polish with larger exfoliating particles or tools like exfoliating mitts can be effective. Consistency is key, as regular exfoliation not only improves texture but also allows moisturizers to absorb more effectively, keeping the skin appearing supple and hydrated.
Exfoliating the Face
Facial skin requires a more delicate approach to exfoliation since it is thinner and more prone to sensitivity. Gentle exfoliants, such as enzymatic formulas or fine scrubs, can exfoliate without causing irritation. Exfoliating the face helps visibly smooth uneven texture and promotes a brighter complexion. Over-exfoliating, however, can lead to redness and dryness, so it is important to choose products suited to your skin type and follow a consistent but moderate routine.
Exfoliating the Lips
The lips are a unique area of the body that often suffers from dryness and flakiness. Exfoliation here should always be gentle to avoid creating microtears in the delicate skin. Using a soft lip scrub or even a damp washcloth can help lift away dead skin, leaving the lips smoother and better prepared for hydration. Regular exfoliation also helps lip balms and treatments penetrate more effectively, ensuring the lips stay soft, plump, and healthy-looking.
Sensitive Skin Exfoliators
At Epicuren, we love our Fine Herb Facial Scrub and Glycolic Lotion Skin Peel (5%) for more sensitive skin types. Epicuren offers professional peel options at your local spa with a skincare specialist, including the newest addition, Mandelic 30 Clarifying Pro Peel, which may be a great, more gentle option for those seeking a peel. To find a professional who can help you discover the right type of exfoliant for you or perform a mandelic peel, check out Spa Finder or our Spa Locator. Also, for more tips on how to exfoliate more sensitive skin, check out this blog post on the topic.
Exfoliators for Oily Skin
With oily skin, a major concern is keeping the skin cleansed without excessively drying it out. Weekly exfoliation with a formula designed to moisturize while exfoliating can do wonders for people with naturally oily skin. Our Micro-Derm Ultra-Refining Scrub gives your skin a professional treatment, leaving it smoother looking, feeling perfectly hydrated, and appearing flawless. We also recommend our Pumpkin Apple Spice Peel, Clarifying Polishing Mask, and Clarifying Exfoliating Astringent.
Acne and Blemish Exfoliators
Your acne routine can get an effective boost from a high-quality exfoliator or mask. Epicuren Discovery’s two-in-one solution for blemish and acne-prone skin, the Clarify Polishing Mask, does just that. First, the formula contains clay that helps absorb excess dirt and oil. Then, you gently massage its soft jojoba beads to reveal a revitalized look and a clean slate for your other facial products.
High-Quality Exfoliators by Epicuren Discovery
Whether you’re looking for the most effective, high-quality product or a lighter, refreshing facial scrub, Epicuren Discovery has the best exfoliator for you. Matched and recommended by skin type, our exfoliators, peels, and polishes leave your skin clean, fresh, and radiant, ready for whatever the week throws at it. Learn more about how our exfoliators and complete line of amazing skin care products can help revolutionize your routine by taking our skin quiz today!
