
There are a lot of different opinions out there about whether or not exfoliating helps with acne. Some people swear by it, while others say it doesn’t make a difference. So, what is the truth? Does exfoliating help with acne?
The answer is that it depends. Exfoliating can help unclog pores and remove dead skin cells, which can help reduce acne’s severity. However, exfoliating can make your acne worse if you have sensitive skin.
You must talk to your dermatologist if you’re considering trying exfoliating to help with your acne. They can help you figure out whether it’s a good idea for you and how to exfoliate your skin to avoid making your acne worse correctly.
1. Benefits of exfoliating the skin
Exfoliating the skin can help with acne in a few different ways:
Getting rid of dead skin cells can help to unclog pores and prevent them from becoming blocked in the first place.
Exfoliating can help to reduce inflammation and redness, two common symptoms of acne.
Exfoliating can help to stimulate new cell growth, which can promote healing and help to fade acne scars.
2. Different types of exfoliating products
There are two main types of exfoliating products: physical exfoliators and chemical exfoliators.
Physical exfoliators are usually scrubs or brushes that physically remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. On the other hand, chemical exfoliators use acids or other ingredients to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells so they can be sloughed off.
Both types of exfoliation can help manage acne, and physical exfoliation can help to remove excess oil and dead skin cells that can clog pores. In contrast, chemical exfoliation can help to unplug existing pimples and prevent new ones from forming.
3. How often to exfoliate
Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, and this can help to improve the appearance of the skin and can also help to prevent acne. There are two main types of exfoliation: mechanical and chemical.
Mechanical exfoliation involves using a physical exfoliating agent, such as a scrub, to remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface manually. This exfoliation can be harsh on the skin and is not recommended for people with sensitive skin.
Chemical exfoliation involves using a chemical agent, such as an acid, to break down the bonds that hold dead skin cells to the skin’s surface. This exfoliation is gentler on the skin and is a good option for people with sensitive skin.
Most dermatologists recommend exfoliating two to three times per week.
4. Proper exfoliating techniques
Acne is caused by a build-up of dead skin cells, sebum, and bacteria on the skin’s surface. Exfoliating helps to remove this build-up, unclog pores, and prevent acne breakouts.
There are two main types of exfoliants: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliants include scrubs, sponges, and brushes, which work by physically removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. On the other hand, chemical exfoliants use acids or enzymes to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be washed away.
To get the most out of exfoliating, it’s essential to use the right products and to exfoliate properly. When using a physical exfoliant, be sure to use gentle, circular motions and avoid scrubbing too hard, which can irritate the skin. Chemical exfoliants should be applied to wet skin and left on for the recommended time before being rinsed off.
Exfoliating 2-3 times per week is generally sufficient for most people. However, those with very oily skin or prone to breakouts may benefit from exfoliating more frequently.
5. Side effects of exfoliating
Exfoliating can help acne by removing dead skin cells, oil, and dirt from the skin’s surface. This can help to prevent clogged pores and new breakouts. However, exfoliating can also cause side effects, such as dryness, redness, and irritation. Therefore, it is vital to use a gentle exfoliating product and to avoid exfoliating too often.
While exfoliating may not cure acne, it can be a valuable part of your skincare routine. Exfoliating can help to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and oil from your skin, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. If you have acne-prone skin, look for exfoliating products that contain gentle ingredients like glycolic acid or lactic acid. Be sure to use a light touch when exfoliating, as over-exfoliating can irritate your skin and make acne worse.