Exfoliation is the process of removing the layer of mostly dead skin cells on the
outer surface of the skin to expose fresher mostly living cells. Benefits of
exfoliation include having fresher, brighter looking skin, better penetration of skin
care products and for people with extremely oily skin, a potential reduction in oil
secretion. Although the benefits are good for many people – such as people over
30 years old with dull, lifeless skin or for people with oily skin – exfoliation isn’t for
everyone.

If you have made the decision to add exfoliation to your skin care routine, you will
need to determine how often you should do it. Remember the goal is to remove
the dead cells from the skin surface and it takes at least a few days for a sizeable
amount of dead cells to accumulate. If you exfoliate more often than that, you
may be removing too many living cells, increasing the chance of irritation and skin
damage. For most people, once or twice a week is sufficient. If you develop
irritation, that probably means you are exfoliating too often.

Skin type, strength of products and how you apply the products will all have an
impact on how often you exfoliate. Here are some additional tips for getting the
most of your skin exfoliation routine:

• There are different types of exfoliants for different skin types. Be sure to pick one that is right for you.
• For normal skin try Boots No. 7 Exfoliator
• For oily or acne prone skin try Neutrogena Oil-Free Grapefruit Scrub
• For sensitive skin check out St. Ives Exfoliating Scrub for Sensitive Skin
• You should always apply exfoliation products to dry skin

So for the best outcome, be sure to educate yourself about the products you will
be using and always listen to your skin.