Exfoliate Your Way To A More Radiant Complexion: Tips, Tricks & Techniques

Exfoliation is a good way to help reveal visibly brighter, smoother-looking skin. But how you exfoliate matters just as much as how often. With the right approach, exfoliation can help improve the appearance of rough texture, reduce the look of dullness and support a more even tone. It's also an essential step to help your serums and moisturisers absorb more effectively.

If you're unsure where to begin or have questions like "Do you exfoliate on wet or dry skin?" or "Can oily skin be exfoliated every day?" you're in the right place. This guide shares expert-informed tips and techniques to help you exfoliate confidently, using the right formulas for your skin and lifestyle.

What is exfoliation?

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Your skin naturally sheds cells on its own, but that natural process can slow down due to a number of factors, including age, stress, pollution and lifestyle. Regular exfoliation helps support the skin's renewal cycle by lifting away build-up and leaving your skin looking more refined and refreshed.

There are two main types of exfoliation:

• Physical exfoliation — Using a scrub or textured tool to manually remove surface debris
• Chemical exfoliation — Using ingredients like AHAs or BHAs to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, helping them shed more easily

Both can be beneficial to your skincare routine when used correctly and consistently. The key is choosing the right method based on your skin's appearance and tolerance.

How to exfoliate skin

Start with clean skin, then choose your exfoliant based on what your skin looks or feels like. For example, if you're noticing dryness or visible dullness, a mild chemical exfoliant may help visibly brighten and smooth. If you have oily skin and are seeing visible congestion, a BHA-based exfoliant can help purify and minimise the appearance of pores.

Gently apply your exfoliant, avoiding the eye area. Rinse thoroughly and pat your skin dry, then follow with a hydrating serum or moisturiser. You should always wear SPF during the day when using exfoliants, as they can increase visible sun sensitivity.

Can oily skin be exfoliated every day?

Those with oily skin often feel like daily exfoliation is necessary, but exfoliating too frequently can disrupt the skin barrier and lead to visible dryness or sensitivity. Oily skin can be exfoliated regularly, but not necessarily every day.

Aim for two to four times per week, depending on how your skin appears to respond. Look for gentle formulas designed to visibly balance oil without stripping or irritating the skin.

Are physical exfoliants bad for skin?

Physical exfoliants aren’t inherently bad for the skin, but they do need to be used with care. Physical exfoliants with smooth, rounded particles can help slough off dead skin and refine the look of texture. However, harsh scrubs with jagged grains or aggressive rubbing can cause micro-damage to the skin's surface.

The best approach is to use physical exfoliants occasionally and gently. Don't press too hard, and avoid using them on visibly sensitive or compromised skin. If you prefer a non-abrasive option, try a chemical exfoliant with ingredients like glycolic acid or salicylic acid. These can help improve the look of skin tone and texture over time with consistent use.

Can you exfoliate on dry skin?

Some exfoliants are specifically designed for dry application. For example, dry brushing is a method used on dry skin to help you achieve visibly smoother, clearer skin. Similarly, certain enzyme-based exfoliants or powders may be applied dry before being activated with water.

However, most exfoliants, especially physical ones, should be used on damp skin to avoid dragging or irritating the surface. Always check the product instructions and use them as directed.

How to exfoliate your body

Exfoliating your body can help smooth the look of rough patches and improve the way your skin feels to the touch. Use a gentle scrub, exfoliating glove or body brush on damp skin up to three times a week. Focus on areas like elbows, knees and shoulders where skin often feels more textured.

For enhanced results, follow with a hydrating body lotion or moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture. This helps maintain a soft, brighter-looking finish.

Final tips for exfoliating success

With the right technique and consistent use, exfoliation can help your skin appear smoother, more radiant and better able to absorb your favourite serums and creams. Just remember to choose products that align with your skin's needs and always apply them gently.

• Always patch-test new products before full use.
• Avoid mixing multiple exfoliants in the same routine.
• Hydrate and moisturise after exfoliating to support your skin barrier.
• Use SPF daily to protect your skin, especially after exfoliating.
• Start slowly if you're new to exfoliation and build up as needed.

Shop our range of exfoliating products at Medik8

If you're ready to take the next step, explore Medik8’s collection of science-backed, vegan exfoliators and skincare essentials formulated with visible results and long-term skin health in mind. Radiant-looking skin is only a few steps away at Medik8. Explore options across cleansers and toners to build a complete, skin-supporting routine that’s tailored to your skin.

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