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Let’s Get Scrubbing!

Exfoliating the skin is an important step in every skin care regimen. The main purpose of exfoliation is remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells in order to achieve a healthier look and feel. Exfoliation also works to smooth and soften the skin, reduce visible signs of aging, restore radiance, and heal and prevent acne blemishes. Using chemical or physical exfoliating acne products will help unclog pores and remove impurities, leading to a clearer complexion.

Choosing the right exfoliation product is as easy as identifying your skin type. You may also want to choose a product based on active ingredients, depending on personal preferences and sensitivity levels. Some exfoliants are specially formulated to act as acne treatment products, making them a great choice for those who experience regular breakouts. Chemical exfoliants use gentle, safe acids (usually plant-derived acids) to exfoliate the skin without scrubbing. Physical exfoliants use beads, generally made from silicone or organic ingredients, to scrub away dead skin cells and debris. Both methods are safe and effective.

Exfoliating ingredients are found in many product types, including cleansers, lotions and masks. It is possible to over-exfoliate the skin, so you don’t want to build your regimen using only exfoliating products. Gentler exfoliants may be used every day; however harsher formulations, such as aggressive physical scrubs, should only be used once or twice per week as needed.

Oily Skin with Acne
When exfoliating oily skin, it is important to choose a formulation that will absorb excess oils and impurities. Chemical exfoliants that use glycolic acid work well on oily skin, as do exfoliants containing kaolin or bentonite clay. The latter ingredients are found mostly in acne treatment masks, such as the Clarifying Clay Masque by SkinCeuticals.

Dry Skin with Acne
Dry skin often needs the most exfoliation as it is more likely to develop a rough, flaky appearance. Using a creamy exfoliating cleanser will help restore moisture to dry and dehydrated skin while removing the dead skin cells that cause a dry appearance. Those with dry skin should not use formulations containing purifying clays, unless the formulation is specifically developed for dry skin.

Sensitive Skin with Acne
Those with sensitive skin need to take special care when exfoliating. Sensitive skin generally does best when exfoliated with a chemical formulation, although there are some physical exfoliant products that are safe for sensitive skin. It is best to avoid overly stripping formulations, such as those often used for oily skin, as they can aggravate sensitive skin. If your skin is too oily for a heavy, creamy exfoliant, look for a good “middle ground” product that will soothe the complexion without causing it to feel greasy or uncomfortable.

Mature Skin with Acne
Acne-prone mature skin is often difficult to treat, as many treatments for acne do not target visible signs of aging. However, there are products out there, such as MD Skincare’s Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel, that will help clear acne while restoring a youthful appearance to the complexion.

Normal or Combination Skin with Acne
Normal and combination skin types are able to pick and choose whatever exfoliating adult acne treatment they prefer. Most normal skin types prefer creamier or more hydrating products, such as those used by dry skin types, while most combination skin types choose absorbent products to create a “squeaky clean” feeling.