how often should you exfoliate your face

3 hours ago 2
Nature

The frequency with which you should exfoliate your face depends primarily on your skin type, the exfoliation products you use, and your skin's tolerance.

  • Normal skin: You can exfoliate about 2 to 3 times per week.
  • Dry or sensitive skin: Limit exfoliation to once a week or every other week, using gentle exfoliants to avoid irritation.
  • Oily skin: You may exfoliate 3 to 4 times per week if your skin tolerates it well, especially with chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid.
  • Combination skin: Exfoliating 2 to 3 times per week is usually suitable, focusing on oily areas.
  • Very sensitive or redness-prone skin: Once a week is recommended to prevent irritation.

Chemical exfoliants (like AHAs and BHAs) can often be used more frequently than physical scrubs, which may be too abrasive if used multiple times a week. Over-exfoliating can damage the skin barrier, causing dryness and redness, so it's important to monitor your skin's response and adjust accordingly. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or switch to a gentler method

. In summary, most people benefit from exfoliating 1 to 3 times per week, tailored to their skin type and product used. Consulting a dermatologist or esthetician can help determine the best routine for your individual needs