do you exfoliate before or after washing your face

Why Exfoliate?

Exfoliation is key to removing dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause breakouts. By sloughing off this top layer of skin, you can reveal fresher, healthier skin underneath. Additionally, exfoliating can help to improve the effectiveness of your other skincare products, as they can penetrate more deeply into the skin.

Types of Exfoliants

There are two main types of exfoliants: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliants, like scrubs or brushes, physically scrub away dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliants, on the other hand, use acids like glycolic or salicylic acid to dissolve and remove dead skin cells.

When to Exfoliate

The milliondollar question: do you exfoliate before or after washing your face? The general consensus among skincare experts is to exfoliate after washing your face. This way, you can ensure that your skin is clean and free of any dirt or makeup that could interfere with the exfoliation process.

The Exfoliating Process

1. Start with a Clean Slate: Begin by washing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup.

1. Choose Your Exfoliant: Decide whether you want to use a physical or chemical exfoliant. Remember to choose one that is suitable for your skin type.

1. Exfoliate: Apply the exfoliant to your skin, gently massaging in circular motions. Be sure to avoid the delicate eye area.

1. Rinse: After exfoliating, rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any exfoliant residue.

1. Follow Up: Finish your skincare routine as usual, applying serums, moisturizers, and sunscreens as needed.

Frequency of Exfoliation

How often you should exfoliate depends on your skin type. Those with sensitive skin may only need to exfoliate once a week, while those with oily or acneprone skin may benefit from exfoliating more frequently. As a general rule of thumb, aim to exfoliate 23 times a week.

Cautionary Notes

While exfoliating can work wonders for your skin, it’s important to use caution and listen to your skin’s needs. Overexfoliation can lead to irritation, redness, and even damage to the skin barrier. If you experience any of these issues, dial back on the exfoliation and give your skin time to heal.

In conclusion, exfoliating is a vital step in any skincare routine, but it’s essential to do it correctly. By exfoliating after washing your face and following the proper steps, you can achieve glowing, healthy skin. Remember to listen to your skin and adjust your exfoliation frequency as needed. Do you exfoliate before or after washing your face? Now you know the answer after!