How Usually Ought to You Exfoliate? What Dermatologists Say

However, where many people stumble, this is what it looks like in real life. Sure, brushing the skin with an exfoliating pad or grasping an enzyme mask is pretty easy to identify as an exfoliator for your skin. But do you count a mud mask? Or what should you do about serums with strong peeling acids such as alpha or beta hydroxy acids? And how can one face ablutions? It is true that exfoliation comes in a variety of forms so in some cases you may have too much exfoliation without realizing it.

For example, masks that target greasiness, clogged pores, or acne usually contain an exfoliating agent (including, but not limited to, clay, charcoal, AHAs, BHAs, and physical scrubbers). Think of this as an exfoliant, even if it's not directly marketed as such.

And don't forget that glycolic and lactic acid serums are chemical peels and should therefore be used in moderation – especially if they contain large doses. (Some serums have low enough concentrations of gentle acids that it's fine for everyday use, but ultimately it's up to the individual.)

Many face washes contain chemical and physical peels, be it salicylic acid or microparticles. While some can tolerate these daily (or even twice a day), for most we recommend using a gentler detergent just a few times a week and the rest of the time.