Exfoliation Mistakes & How to Prevent Them

Exfoliation of our face is an important step in all of our skincare routines. Enhanced skin texture, it helps product absorb into our skin, and a gives us a more bright complexion. And these are just some of the benefits!

 However, some of us can make mistakes that may hinder our exfoliation efforts. Here, we'll jump into some exfoliation errors while giving you some suggestions and tips to help achieve healthy and luminous skin.

• Why is Facial Exfoliation Necessary?:

It plays an important role in maintaining our skin's health. It can promotes cell turnover, reduces the size of pores, and minimise the appearance of wrinkles.

Exfoliating primes the skin for better product absorption. However, not doing it properly can have negative effects on the skin. 

• Can I Over Exfoliate my Skin?:

Over-exfoliating the skin can damage the skin's barrier This can lead to extra sensitivity, redness, and dry skin. Limit your exfoliating to 1-3 times per week, depending on your skin type and your level of sensitivity.

Choose a gentle facial exfoliators like Image Skincare ILUMA® Intense Brightening Exfoliating Cleanser for effective yet safe gentle exfoliation. It softly buffs away dead skin build up and illuminates your skin. Or, you can try adding our ILUMA Intense Brightening Exfoliating Powder to your skincare routine. The water-activated powder helps even out and brighten the complexion. 

• Not Exfoliating Enough:

  Try to aim to exfoliate your face at least once a week This will help remove dead skin cells and brighten your complexion.

The AGELESS Total Resurfacing Masque leverages alpha and beta hydroxy acids combined with micro-crystals to polish skin and improve tone.

• Using a Facial Exfoliator that is too Harsh for your Skin: 

Scrubbing too aggressively with harsh facial exfoliants can micro-tear the skin and can make issues like acne and irritation worse. Choose formulas with gentle ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids or fruit enzymes to avoid over-sensitising the skin.

For a easy, quick, but effective option try our CLEAR CELL Salicylic Clarifying Pads. You don't need water so they're great for on the go!  With a combination of 2% salicylic acid and glycolic acid, they gently sweep away dull, dead skin instantly. They are perfect for use after exercise or to help refresh oilier skin.

Our CLEAR CELL Clarifying Salicylic Masque decongests the pores and purifies skin. It contains glycolic and salicylic acids to exfoliate dead cells that clog pores, promoting a fresh skin.

• Not Exfoliating Dry Skin:

Dry facial skin can benefit from exfoliation to remove flakiness and improve moisture absorption. Use a chemical exfoliants rather than a physical scrubs to prevent further irritation.

• Post-Exfoliation hydration is very Important:

Follow up after exfoliation with hydrating serums and moisturisers. This is essential to replenish the skin's moisture barrier and prevent dehydration. Include hydrating treatments to maximise the benefits exfoliation.

• Not Combining Physical and Chemical Exfoliators:

You can absolutely harness the benefits of both chemical and physical facial exfoliators by combining them together in one product. The Image Skincare ORMEDIC® Balancing Gel Polisher is a gentle daily exfoliation for all skin types. Featuring a blend of physical and chemical exfoliation it offers optimal results without irritation, leaving the skin refined but also balanced.

Facial Exfoliation FAQs:

• What is the Best Exfoliator for My Skin?

Choose your exfoliator based on your skin type and the concerns you have. Options include physical exfoliators, chemical exfoliators, enzyme exfoliators, and scrubs. Always patch-test your new facial exfoliating product and follow instructions to avoid any adverse reactions. 

• How To Use an Exfoliator effectively and Safely?

Start with clean and damp skin. Apply the exfoliator using gentle circular motions. Focus on your problem areas, make sure to rinse thoroughly, and always follow up with facial moisturiser and sunscreen (during the day). You can adjust your facial exfoliation frequency based on skin how your skin tolerates it.

• Are Exfoliators and Scrubs the Same?

While we often use both interchangeably, facial scrubs typically refer to physical exfoliators, while exfoliators uses both physical and chemical options. Be sure to choose an exfoliation products based on what your skin needs.

• Can You Use Facial Exfoliators on Your Body?

Facial exfoliators can be used on the body, but consider things like texture, sensitivity, and the area you are applying it. The BODY SPA Exfoliating Body Scrub was specifically designed for the body. This combines a more gentle exfoliating power of crushed walnut shells with natural fruit extracts which help dissolve dead skin.

• How Do You Exfoliate Ingrown Hairs?

Choose a gentle facial exfoliator suitable for your skin type and exfoliate the affected area 1-2 times per week. Use gentle pressure, be sure to moisturise after. Consider warm compresses to soften the skin. Avoid picking or tweezing ingrown hairs tas this can lead to further aggravation.

Exfoliation is a key to achieve glowing skin, but please do be careful with it. Choose a mix of physical and chemical exfoliators and always follow up with a nourishing moisturiser for the best results. By avoiding these common facial exfoliation mistakes and using the appropriate products, you can achieve more radiant skin.

      Keep up to date with everything Image Skincare Ireland over on Instagram!