3 Simple Ways to Exfoliate for Brighter, Smoother Skin
- Jennifer Taylor
- Oct 20, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 22, 2024
When clients come into my treatment room, one of the first things we discuss is their exfoliation routine. Many of them struggle with dull, uneven skin, not realizing that the buildup of dead skin cells is the culprit. If you’ve ever felt like your skincare products just aren’t working as well as they should or noticed your complexion looks a little lackluster, I can almost guarantee you’re not exfoliating enough—or using the right type of exfoliant for your skin. Here are three simple but effective ways to exfoliate for smoother, more radiant skin, and why I recommend them to my clients.
Start with a Gentle Exfoliant
As an esthetician, I’m always cautious about recommending physical exfoliants. I’ve seen too many clients who’ve unknowingly damaged their skin by scrubbing too hard or using harsh, large particles. With that said, when used correctly, a gentle scrub can be incredibly effective, especially for those with dry or combination skin. Personally, I love using rice-based or oat-based scrubs. They’re ultra-fine, making them much less abrasive than other scrubs, and they work wonders for removing dead skin without irritating the surface.
My go-to tip: Use a small amount, dampen your face, and apply the scrub in light, circular motions. Avoid pressing too hard, as you’re not trying to "scrub" the skin but rather sweep away the surface dead cells. Twice or three times a week is usually a great start for most skin types on their journey to smooth skin. If your skin feels tight afterward, follow up with a hydrating serum or moisturizer. I’ve noticed that when my clients get the hang of this gentle touch, their skin becomes much smoother and more receptive to the products they’re already using.
Try a Chemical Exfoliant
If you’re someone who struggles with texture, dark spots, or acne scars (which are super common concerns for women of color), then chemical exfoliation might be a great option for you. I personally had a hard time with hyperpigmentation a few years ago, especially after breakouts left scars behind. What finally helped me get things under control was incorporating a product with glycolic acid into my routine. Smooth skin was within reach!
Chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs do all the work for you by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, helping them shed more easily. They work deeper than physical scrubs, so they’re great for targeting discoloration, clogged pores, and dullness. Glycolic acid is one of my favorite ingredients because it’s effective yet gentle enough for sensitive skin types. When I added it into my routine, I noticed an even tone and smoother texture within just a few weeks. Just make sure to start slow—once or twice a week—then gradually increase as your skin adjusts.
Don't Forget Your Enzyme Mask
One of my clients, who has super sensitive skin, couldn’t tolerate most exfoliants without getting red or irritated. We tried various things over the months, but what finally worked was introducing a papaya enzyme mask into her routine. Papaya enzymes gently dissolve dead skin cells and help smooth skin without causing irritation, making them perfect for someone with easily reactive skin.
Now, she uses a papaya mask once a week, and the results have been amazing—her skin is smooth, glowing, and most importantly, calm. For a gentle yet effective at-home exfoliation between professional treatments, enzyme-based exfoliating masks are a great option. Look for masks that contain enzymes like papaya, pineapple, or pumpkin, which work to break down dead skin cells without the risk of irritation. These masks are typically mild enough to use once or twice a week, depending on your skin’s sensitivity. They help promote cell turnover, keeping your skin smooth, radiant, and ready for your next treatment. Just apply the mask for the recommended time, rinse it off, and follow with your favorite moisturizer.
I’ve seen firsthand how regular exfoliation can transform my clients' skin. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all process. The key is finding what works for you, and sometimes that requires a bit of trial and error. If you’re unsure which exfoliant is best for your skin type, I’d love to help. Book a virtual consultation, and we can create a personalized routine tailored specifically to your skin’s needs.
Comments