Brushes and other equipment, like electric scrubbers, can be used in conjunction with your cleanser for daily exfoliation. Other choices include sponges, such as loofahs (a rough fibrous sponge made from the dried fruit of a tropical plant) and cellulose sponges, as well as special skincare brushes, pieces of pumice and microfiber cloths. [3] X Research source If you have sensitive skin, choose a microfiber pad or cloth that’s not too abrasive. Normal and oily skin can handle loofahs and rougher exfoliators. Pumice stone is more appropriate for thicker skin on the heels of your feet and calluses of your hands. Always moisten a scrubbing pad or cloth first, then rub your skin in circular motions. Don’t spend too much time in one place or else you might irritate your skin. [4] X Expert Source Margareth Pierre-Louis, MDBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 15 May 2020.
Ask your dermatologist for a recommendation based on your skin type and budget. Effective exfoliating creams don’t have to be expensive. According to dermatologist Elizabeth Tanzi, people with sensitive skin should avoid using scrubs with abrasive compounds because it can lead to excessive irritation. [5] X Research source Stick with some warm soapy water and a soft face cloth or sponge. A simple and inexpensive home remedy involves making a paste with baking soda by adding some water. Add the paste to your pad, cloth or sponge and gently exfoliate your skin in circular motions. Focus on exfoliating rough, dry patches on your skin where your complexion is dull, flaky or uneven. [6] X Research source
Make an appointment with your dermatologist for a microdermabrasion treatment for your face or feet. The sanding is not painful and typically takes between 30-40 minutes to treat your entire face. Microdermabrasion is also performed by many estheticians, as well as some massage therapists. Microdermabrasion devices and machines are widely available for home use. Like all other forms of exfoliation, a skin moisturizer should be applied after the microdermabrasion treatment.
Prescription products have higher concentrations of acids and are applied by dermatologists, whereas over-the-counter products have lower concentrations and can be used at home. Daily application of exfoliating acids with cotton cleaning pads is okay for most skin types, unless your skin is especially sensitive. Don’t leave acids on your face for much more than a few minutes to avoid irritation. If you have acne scars or sun damage, a chemical exfoliant is a good choice for minimizing discoloration. For oily and acne-prone skin, daily use of a glycolic acid cleanser with an exfoliating pad is recommended. [10] X Research source You can also get pads that are pre-soaked with AHAs and BHAs. Use of glycolic acids can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so always apply a good sunscreen after treatments if you’re heading outside.
Enzyme-based products should be left on for more than just a few minutes to allow the protein to be dissolved. Aim for at least 15 minutes or so and then rinse off with water. No scrubbing is needed. Fruit enzymes are often found in cleansing facial masks, which are meant to unclog pores and remove dead skin. Fruits that contain protein enzymes include pineapple, papaya, kiwi fruit and figs.
Chemical skin peels can be considered as topical, moderate or deep. Deep peels may require you to miss work for a week or more while your skin sheds and recovers. Estheticians can perform mild-to-moderate peels, whereas dermatologists are needed to perform or supervise deeper peels. The acids used are typically concentrated glycolic acids, trichloroacetic acid (like bleach), salicylic acid, lactic acid, or a combination of acids called Jessner’s peel. Chemical peels cause an intense tingling or burning sensation and leave the skin looking bright pink afterwards.
