If you’re struggling with acne, acne scarring, dark spots or dry skin, its easy to think that exfoliating your face will take all those problems away, but did you know that it can actually do more harm than good?
Over-exfoliation can harm your skin and the effects are guaranteed to show up almost instantaneously. Its so important to take care of your skin and educate yourself on the right skin-care products and how to use them correctly. If you’ve never heard of over-exfoliation, this might just turn your beauty routine upside down!

See Also: The Best Skincare Products To Buy If You Have Sensitive Skin>>>
ADVERTISEMENT |
What Is Over-Exfoliation?
Over-exfoliating happens when the skins barrier is compromised, making the skin dehydrated and damaging the skins capillaries. Your skin produces natural oils that’s suppose to keep the skin healthy and hydrated, but when you over do it on the exfoliation, you strip away the necessary oils for that desired glowly complexion.
Dead skin cells aren’t as bad as you think and in fact, we need them in order for our skin to the healthiest it can be! If you think you might be overdoing it on the exfoliation, here are a few signs to look out for:
- Redness
- Irritation
- Itchiness
- Inflammation
- Dry/Dehydrated
- Instant Burning/Tingling
- Ultra Shiny
- Rough Patches
- Rashes

If you ever find yourself in an over-exfoliation crises, apply ice cubes or cold packs immediately to your face! Doing this well help sooth the irritation and reduce inflammation. You can also use 100% aloe vera and cucumbers to cool your face!
How Many Times You Should Exfoliate A Week
The amount of times you exfoliate in a week all depends on your skin type. On average, you can exfoliation your skin 1-2 times a week, but its always best to slowly introduce exfoliation into your skincare routine! Although, if your skin is extremely oily and isn’t sensitive, you can even exfoliate up to 3 times a week. But remember, everyone is different!
ADVERTISEMENT |
Chemical Vs. Mechanical Exfoliation
There are two types of exfoliates to chose from and knowing the different can really do wonders for you skin! Chemical exfoliates use chemicals or acids to dissolve the impurities left behind in your pores. This is mainly used for people with oily or acne-prone skin and it helps fight bacteria to aid in preventing the appearance of skin flare ups and breakouts!
Mechanical exfoliates use tools to scrub away dead skin cells and remove the grime that sinks down into pores. This type of exfoliate has come a long way from the tiny micro beads that we grew up on. But now, mechanical (or physical) exfoliates tend to use sugar or fruit enzymes to formulate granules that are small enough to exfoliate in a gentle way! Its common to over-exfoliate with this type of exfoliation, but always remember to be gentle and apply little pressure, this will guarantee a great exfoliation and your skin will sure be thanking you!
Pro Tip: Think about using a gentle wash cloth or investing in an exfoliating brush, this can help avoid any over-exfoliation!
Exfoliates On The Market Right Now
It can be scary trying out new face products, but that’s where I come in to make it much easier for you! After years of dealing with my own skin imperfections, i’ve come across a few good exfoliators that are worth your next purchase!
When it comes to finding the right exfoliator you can’t cheap out! Because you’re only using this 1-3 times a week, these products are bond to last you a long time, so move away from the cheap drugstore brands and on towards the good stuff!
ADVERTISEMENT |
Dermalogica – Daily Microfoliant

Everyone I know or anyone I’ve ever given this product to, loves it! I’ve been using Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant for over 6 years now and it never lets me down. The rice-based powder is a great gentle exfoliator that brightens my skin, improves my texture and lifts my overall complexion.
Drunk Elephant – T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Night Serum

I’ve been slowly introducing this exfoliate by Drunk Elephant into my routine and i’m loving it! If I need something a bit more aggressive, this chemical over-night exfoliate has done wonders for my skin! Just overnight it resurfaces congested skin by lifting away dead skin cells to visibly improve skin tone, texture, fine lines, wrinkles, and pores! After a couple of uses, I’ve already noticed a difference with my dark spots and fine lines!
OleHenriksen – PHAT Glow Facial Mask

Using this Olehenriksen exfoliator is like bringing the spa experience right to your own home! I absolutely love Olehenriksen and besides their infamous Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum, this is their best product! It provides gentle yet effective exfoliation, added hydration, and overall skin brightening!
ADVERTISEMENT |