Exfoliation speeds up your skin’s own desquamation process, which is removal of dead skin cells from the surface so they can be replaced with fresh, new cells underneath. While regular exfoliation can make your skin smoother, brighter and clearer, there is a right and a wrong way to exfoliate. Follow these tips to help you get the glowing, blemish-free skin you want without causing dryness or damage.
1. Know Your Skin Type
Those with very dry or sensitive skin types, including those with inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea, eczema or acne are not typically good candidates for harsh physical exfoliants like facial scrubs. Instead, chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) can be used infrequently to more gently exfoliate the skin.Â
While oily or combination skin can generally tolerate more frequent exfoliation, it is important that you do not over-exfoliate. Work with your skincare provider to develop a customized at-home exfoliation regimen.
2. Follow with a Moisturizer and Sunscreen
Exfoliation can cause dryness, so apply a moisturizer directly afterwards. Our MariottiMD SkinScience Ultra Light AOX Moisturizer is specially formulated with vitamins A, C and E along with ceramides for effective, all-day hydration. Exfoliated skin is also very susceptible to sun damage, so be sure to apply sunscreen after exfoliating during the day or the next day if you exfoliated at night. We offer both brightening and tinted SPF50 sunscreens in the MariottiMD SkinScience product line.
3. Use Caution with At-Home Microdermabrasion Devices
While at-home microdermabrasion devices can be effective, they can also damage your skin if not used properly. They can also be particularly problematic for very sensitive skin types or those with rosacea, active acne or open wounds. Consult your skincare provider before trying at-home microdermabrasion.
4. Maintain Regular In-Office Exfoliation Treatments
In-office skin resurfacing treatments like HydraFacial®, the Perkâ„¢ Skin System, laser skin resurfacing and chemical peels can provide excellent skin-smoothing results that can last for several months. The best way to maintain those same great results is to maintain regular in-office treatments to complement your at-home exfoliation regimen.Â
For gentle, effective exfoliation and hydration, we recommend our own MariottiMD SkinScience Illuminate + Resurface Serum. The exfoliator contains 10% lactic acid to smooth skin texture and humectants to improve hydration. It also supports collagen production and visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Our Illuminate + Resurface Serum is lightweight and perfect for everyday use regardless of skin type.
Ready to give your skin a glow-up? Call our Concord office today at 925-685-4533 or contact us online to schedule a consultation to discuss your skin’s specific resurfacing needs.
