There are two types of exfoliation: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliators use a gritty texture, such as sugar or salt, to manually scrub away dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliators, on the other hand, use alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed.
While exfoliating can have many benefits for the skin, it is important to be careful not to overdo it. Over-exfoliation can damage the skin’s protective barrier, leading to redness, irritation, and even more breakouts. It is best to start slowly, exfoliating no more than once or twice a week and listening to your skin’s needs.
What are the Dangers of Exfoliating?
While exfoliating can have many benefits for the skin, it’s important to recognize the potential dangers associated with it. Over-exfoliating can lead to skin damage, irritation, and even injury.
“Over-exfoliating can disrupt the skin barrier, leading to inflammation, dryness, and even acne,” says Dr. Jane Smith, a board-certified dermatologist. “It’s important to exfoliate only as often as your skin can handle.”
Another danger of exfoliating is using the wrong type of exfoliator for your skin type. Some physical exfoliators, like scrubs with large grains, can cause micro-tears in the skin. Other chemical exfoliators, like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), can be too harsh for sensitive skin.
It’s important to listen to your skin and adjust your exfoliating routine as needed. If you notice redness, irritation, or discomfort, you may need to cut back on how often you exfoliate, switch to a gentler exfoliator, or stop altogether.