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and Health
Having acne-prone skin can be a real struggle. Shaving and other skin treatments can often leave your skin feeling dry and irritated. In order to combat this, many people choose to exfoliate their skin regularly. But what is the best way to exfoliate acne-prone skin? To answer this question, it’s helpful to consider the nuances of both chemical and physical exfoliation, and to assess their relative health benefits and risks.
Chemical Exfoliation
Chemical exfoliants work by breaking down the substances that hold skin cells together, allowing them to be gently removed from the surface. These substances are typically acids like alpha and beta hydroxy acids or natural enzymes found in fruit and vegetable extracts. Chemical exfoliation is usually gentler on the skin than physical exfoliation, and it can be beneficial for acne-prone skin, as it can help reduce the appearance of acne. It can also help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, making chemical exfoliation a great choice for those with aging or wrinkled skin.
Physical Exfoliation
Physical exfoliants typically use ingredients like salt, sugar, ground nut shells, or other granular substances. These substances physically slough away dead skin cells. Physical exfoliation is often recommended for acne-prone skin because it can physically remove clogged pores, helping to reduce the appearance of acne. Another benefit of physical exfoliation is that it can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, particularly when used in combination with chemical exfoliants.
Health Tips for Exfoliating Acne-Prone Skin
Regardless of which type of exfoliant you choose, it’s important to take some basic steps to ensure your skin remains healthy. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right formula: When choosing an exfoliant, look for products designed specifically for acne-prone skin, as these will be formulated to be gentler on the skin.
- Don’t over-exfoliate: Exfoliating too often can irritate skin and make acne worse, so stick to your regular exfoliation schedule. Experts recommend exfoliating no more than 1–3 times per week.
- Be gentle: When exfoliating, avoid scrubbing too hard or using a harsh scrubbing tool. Gentle exfoliation can help reduce the risk of irritation and inflammation.
- Moisturize: Applying a moisturizer after exfoliating can help keep skin hydrated and reduce the risk of irritation.
By considering the nuances of chemical and physical exfoliators and following some basic tips, you can help keep your skin healthy and acne-free.
