People often ask their dermatologist and aesthetician how to exfoliate. There are so many strong acids, retinoids, peels, and scrubs out there that people have often had a bad experience in the past and fear repeating their mistakes in the future. But luckily, the options for skin care exfoliation are expansive enough that anyone can find something appropriate for their skin type and concerns.
Step #1. Choose the proper exfoliator.
Many common exfoliants are too harsh for sensitive skin and regular use. Scrubbing with the wrong loofah can cause skin damage in the form of microtears and inflammation.
Luckily, there are products like the ViaBuff. Without getting into it too much (it is our own blog, after all), ViaBuff exfoliators are designed with four different levels for a variety of skin conditions and concerns:
- Level 1: Extra Gentle (Purple)
Ideal for Oily Skin, Acne, Psoriasis - Level 2: Mild (Green)
Ideal for Normal Skin, Eczema - Level 3: Moderate (Pink)
Ideal for Dry Skin, Ingrown Hairs, Keratosis Pilaris, Waxing - Level 4: Clinical (White)
Ideal for Very Dry Skin
Simply select the proper buff for your skin type and concerns, and you’re done!
Step #2. Choose the proper product.
Scrubs can be iffy, depending on your skin type and concerns. If nothing else, make sure that the particle size in scrubs is small, and that the shape of the scrub is round/circular. For instance, apricot and peach scrubs often contain larger, irregularly-shaped particles that can get into pores and tear them open, and abrade the skin.
Acids can be used, but with caution. It’s important to note that your skin is already acidic. Your skin has a natural range between a 4.5 and 6.0 on the pH scale that is important for maintaining its delicate, yet ultra-protective, acid mantle. Ideally your cleanser is between a 4.5 and 6.0, but if you use an acidic product, do so with caution.
Fruit enzyme exfoliants, such as papaya (papain) and pineapple (bromelain) can also be useful. Enzyme-based products tend to work with the skin to remove dead skin. They typically do not abrade the skin in any way, because the enzymes are not large, rough, or irregularly-shaped.
Step #3. Use the right amount of product and pressure. Repeat often.
In general, you want to use a dime-sized amount of cleansing product and scrub for your face and neck.
Apply exfoliators with a light, steady pressure. Many people make the mistake of scrubbing so hard their knuckles turn white, but that’s not necessary. (Especially not with exfoliating skin care like the ViaBuff — it’s designed with the weave in mind to delicately take care of your skin type and concerns!)
When complete, rinse clean.
In Summary
Select a skin care product and exfoliator that are best designed for your skin type. Below we have some suggestions:
- Level 1: Extra Gentle (Purple) ViaBuff + 2% Salicylic Acid Oil-Control Wash
Ideal for Oily Skin, Acne, Psoriasis - Level 2: Mild (Green) ViaBuff + Antioxidant-Rich Cleanser
Ideal for Normal Skin, Eczema - Level 3: Moderate (Pink) + Moisturizing Hyaluronic Acid-Rich Cleanser
Ideal for Dry Skin, Ingrown Hairs, Keratosis Pilaris, Waxing - Level 4: Clinical (White) + Ultra-Moisturizing Petrolatum-Rich Cleanser
Ideal for Very Dry Skin