Video:How to Exfoliate Skin

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Transcript:How to Exfoliate Skin

Hi, I’m Kaytie Sproul, here for About.com, and today I’m going to show you how to exfoliate your skin. Whether you’re dealing with dry, flaky skin or you just want to pamper yourself and make your face as smooth as possible, exfoliating is a process that requires care. Here are a few things for you to consider, as you begin your next exfoliation adventure.

Exfoliating Removes Dead Skin Cells

When we exfoliate, we remove a layer of dead skins cells from our face, which helps to reveal a smooth and healthy layer of skin. Regardless of skin type, exfoliating at least once or twice a week is the best way to keep our skin looking fresh. For this weekly regimen, you'll want to look for an exfoliator with the word "scrub" on the label, as well as one that contains the ingredients for your skin type.

Use the Right Exfoliator for Your Skin Type

Those with sensitive skin should use enzyme-based facial exfoliators, while beta-hydroxy exfoliators are best for those with acne-prone skin. Oily skin types should look for an exfoliating product with alpha-hydroxy acid or lactic acid. Avoid using any exfoliator that contains pumice, which is fairly abrasive and can be damaging to your face.

Apply Exfoliator to Face with Hands or Scrubbing Tools

While you should follow the directions on whatever scrub you choose, most of them can be applied using the following steps: Start by washing your face with a cleanser and lukewarm water to remove any makeup or debris. Next, place a small dab of the exfoliating scrub in the palm of your hand and apply it to your face using small circular motions. Be sure to avoid the under-eye area, as this skin is particularly sensitive.

You can also apply exfoliating scrub to your face using a loofah or exfoliating gloves if you want to maximize the amount of dead skin cells you’re removing. After you've finished scrubbing the exfoliator on your face, remove it with lukewarm water and a wash cloth and pat your face dry. Finish your exfoliation with a light moisturizer.

Exfoliated Skin is Sensitve to Sunlight

Just a tip: If you plan on heading outdoors after using an exfoliating scrub on your face, be sure to apply either sunscreen or a moisturizer with SPF. Freshly exfoliated skin is prone to sun damage and burns, so it's extremely important to use the right protection in order to avoid long-term damage.

Medical Treatments Offer a More Intense Exfoliation

While using a scrub regularly is the most common and basic way to exfoliate, you can also use microdermabrasion kits, chemical peels, and retinoids to remove dead skin cells from your face. Microdermabrasion products can be purchased for in-home use, but chemical peels and retinoids will require a trip to the doctor and can be a bit costly. These are methods that you’ll want to take advantage of if exfoliating scrubs aren’t satisfying your needs.

Exfoliating your face on a weekly basis is the best way to keep your skin glowing and healthy. Whether you decide on a scrub, a microdermabrasion product, or a chemical peel, be sure that your selection is based on what’s best for your skin type. Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the web at about.com.