Each skin type has special exfoliation needs. Start slowly and gently and then adjust according to your skin’s reaction. You may find that your skin can tolerate it more often or you many need to back off and exfoliate a little less frequently. Here are some general guidelines for the different skin types.
Normal Skin
This is the easiest skin type to exfoliate and needs it about 3 times a week. You can use any type of exfoliant including; scrubs, enzymes, chemicals, and microdermabrasion systems. Just watch how your skin reacts and then adjust your routine.
Sensitive Skin
This type of skin needs very gentle exfoliation about once a week. You may find that your skin reacts unpredictably to skin care products so you will need a gentle exfoliant. Avoid chemical exfoliants because they can leave your skin red and inflamed. There are many options available that are designed specifically for sensitive skin.
If you prefer scrubs, look for one with silicone or jojoba beads versus one with walnut shells or apricot kernels. Silicone and jojoba beads are round and much more gentle on your skin.
The Clarisonic and the Personal Microderm both offer heads that are made just for sensitive skin. With sensitive skin it is important to take it slowly and pay close attention to how your skin reacts.
Oily Skin
All too often oily skin types feel the need to exfoliate every day thinking it will help reduce their skin’s oil production. However, in truth it is actually just the opposite. Exfoliating every day can over activate the sebum glands and make your skin even oiler. It’s best to stick to exfoliating 3 times a week.
You can use chemical (salicylic acid), enzymes, gentle scrubs, or microdermabrasion systems. If you choose to go with a chemical exfoliant, look for products containing salicylic acid, they are very effective for oily skin.
If you prefer manual exfoliation then look for products geared for sensitive skin so you don’t over stimulate your oil production. Scrubs containing silicone or jojoba beads or microdermabrasion systems with the option of a sensitive head do a fantastic job of removing dead skin cells without causing overstimulation or irritation.
Dry Skin
This type of skin really needs exfoliation because it tends to have more dead skin and doesn’t produce enough oil. By exfoliating 3 times a week you not only smooth out the texture but will also stimulate more oil which will make your skin less dry.
Your skin can handle stronger exfoliants which gives you more freedom when selecting products. Dry skin can tolerate acids such as glycolic acid and stronger heads on microdermabrasion systems as well as the Clarisonic.
Active Acne
If your skin has active acne, use a salicylic acid product 3 times a week. Salicylic acid helps to kill bacteria and germs as it sloughs away dead skin. You can also use clay masks and enzymes but you should avoid manual scrubs containing walnut shells or apricot kernels as they can aggravate active acne. Instead choose one that contains silicone or joboba beads, they are less likely to irritate the acne.
Whatever your skin type may be, exfoliation is very important for healthy skin. Pay attention to how your skin reacts and then adapt your exfoliants accordingly. Remember your skin may change with the seasons and with aging so your exfoliant needs may change as well, but stick with it. The rewards are smoother and more vibrant skin.
Victoria Girard has been studying and researching skin care for over 20 years and as a mother of three children understands the challenge and importance of finding the most effective skin care for your specific needs. She gladly shares tips, advice, and resources on how you can get more beautiful and smoother skin at http://RevealGreatSkin.com/home-microdermabrasion/. Once there be sure to sign up for her FREE report “5 Wonder Ingredients for Healthy Skin.”