How Often Should You Exfoliate Your Skin?

Most skin types benefit from exfoliating one to three times per week. The ideal frequency depends on your skin type, the exfoliation method you use, and how your skin responds. Over-exfoliating is just as harmful as not exfoliating at all, so finding the right balance is key.

In Depth

Here is a general guide based on skin type:

• Oily or acne-prone skin: Two to three times per week. Oily skin produces excess sebum that mixes with dead cells to clog pores. Regular exfoliation keeps pores clear and reduces breakouts.
• Normal or combination skin: Two times per week. Focus chemical exfoliants on the oilier T-zone and use gentler methods on drier cheeks.
• Dry skin: Once per week with a gentle chemical exfoliant like lactic acid. Avoid gritty scrubs that can create micro-tears in already-compromised skin.
• Sensitive skin or rosacea: Once every 7 to 14 days with an enzyme-based exfoliant. Avoid acids stronger than PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) and skip physical scrubs entirely.
• Mature skin: Once to twice per week with an AHA like glycolic acid, which also stimulates collagen production.

Signs you are exfoliating too much: redness, tightness, stinging when applying other products, increased breakouts (your barrier is damaged, not dirty), and flaking or peeling that was not there before.

Signs you need to exfoliate more: dull complexion, rough texture, visible flaking, products sitting on top of skin instead of absorbing, and more frequent blackheads.

During a facial at Pia Esthetics Day Spa in South Tampa, our estheticians evaluate your skin's current condition and recommend a personalized exfoliation routine for home care between professional treatments.

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