You’re probably familiar with exfoliation: it’s often touted as a skincare solution that can treat anything from fine lines to acne and sun damage. But like all good things, it’s important to know how to do it right to avoid any mishaps.

Let’s dive into what exfoliation is, and how to exfoliate your skin at home safely. From there, you’ll be equipped to create a routine that makes perfect sense for your skin.

Exfoliating benefits

But first, what does exfoliating do? Whether you go for chemical or physical methods, exfoliating always removes dead skin cells and grime from the outer layer of your skin. 

The overall goal of exfoliation is to clear out your pores and reveal your fresh, new skin. It also can help you absorb skincare products better, and take part in your post-workout routine removing sweat and dirt from your skin’s surface. 

While just about anyone can benefit from exfoliation if done properly, some skin types, like acne-prone skin, may need it more often to remove excess sebum. Overall, it’s important to consider your skin type before choosing a method.

How to Safely Exfoliate at Home?

Exfoliation is one of the best ways to improve your skin’s texture and tone, but it’s easy to overdo it or use the wrong method for your skin type. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Consider the skin care products you already use. Take a moment to think about the skin care products you currently use. If you’re using medications or products with active ingredients, they might make your skin more sensitive to exfoliation.
2. Select an exfoliation method that suits your skin type. Not all skin types are the same. If you have dry or sensitive skin, a gentle chemical exfoliator might be best. Oily skin? You can usually handle stronger products. The key is to find what works for you.
3. Be gentle to your skin. No matter what method you’re using, it’s essential to be gentle. Never exfoliate over open cuts, wounds, or sunburned skin.
4. Follow with moisturizer. Exfoliating can dry out your skin, so always follow up with a good moisturizer to help restore moisture and protect your skin barrier.
5. Find the right schedule for you. Start slow! Try exfoliating once or twice a week and see how your skin responds. How often should you exfoliate your body and face? It depends on your skin type and exfoliation method. Generally, the more aggressive the exfoliation, the less often it needs to be done.  

What to Use to Exfoliate

There are two main methods for at-home exfoliation — mechanical and chemical— and your choice should depend on what your unique skin type needs. 

Mechanical Exfoliation

Mechanical –also known as physical– exfoliation, involves using a tool or scrub to remove dead skin cells. It’s effective, but it’s important to be gentle to avoid irritation. This type can be a bit more taxing on the skin compared to its chemical counterpart, but it's a great option when you need some extra help.

Common mechanical exfoliant tools include:

• Exfoliating Brushes

• Exfoliating Sponges

• Exfoliating Gloves

• Exfoliating Scrub

Chemical Exfoliation

Chemical exfoliation relies on active ingredients like acids or enzymes to break down and remove dead skin cells. These ingredients come in various concentrations. Milder formulas are available over the counter, while more potent options, often applied in a clinical setting, are typically used in professional chemical peels. 

The two most widely used types are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs):

• Alpha-hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

AHAs, like glycolic acid and lactic acid, are water-soluble acids that work on the skin’s surface to gently exfoliate dead skin cells. They’re ideal for dry or sun-damaged skin, as they not only smooth out rough textures but also boost moisture levels by promoting hydration. If your skin feels dull, flaky, or uneven, AHAs can help reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion.

• Beta-hydroxy Acids (BHAs)

BHAs are oil-soluble and work deeper in the pores, making them perfect for oily or acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid, the most popular BHA, clears out excess oil and debris, reducing clogged pores and breakouts. For those with sensitive skin, beta-lipohydroxy acid offers a gentler alternative while still targeting similar concerns. Additionally, citric acid, when used as a BHA, provides mild exfoliation that can help improve skin tone and clarity.

Exfoliation by Body Part

Exfoliating isn’t just for your face. Different areas of the body have different needs, and it’s important to adjust your routine accordingly:

Face

If your face is looking a bit dull or congested, it’s probably time for a good exfoliation. This is how to exfoliate your face:

• Cleanse: Start by washing your face with your usual cleanser. Use lukewarm water to rinse off; hot water can be too harsh.

• Apply: Apply your exfoliant evenly across your face, neck, and décolleté using gentle, circular motions. Allow the product a few minutes to soak in and work its magic before moving on to the next step in your skincare routine.

• Rinse: Rinse off with warm water and gently pat your face dry with a clean towel.

• Moisturize: Don’t forget this step! Exfoliating can dry out your skin, so follow up with a good face moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and protected. You can use a treatment serum, cream, or both.

Arms and legs

Because the skin on the body tends to be less delicate than facial skin, it can usually withstand some heavier-duty exfoliators. 

However, the process is very similar to exfoliating your face:

• Cleanse: You can use your regular cleanser or actually start with an exfoliating cleanser for a 2-in-1 step. OffCourt’s Exfoliating Body Soap is the perfect choice for exfoliating, hydrating, and nourishing skin as you cleanse. Its medium-grit formula banishes dead skin, bacteria, and sweat, while shea butter and olive oil replenish vital nutrients.

Exfoliating Body Soap - Fig Leaves + White Musk

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• Apply: If you haven’t already exfoliated during cleansing, apply your favorite mechanical or chemical exfoliator. Use a washcloth to gently remove any remaining product.

• Rinse: Rinse off with warm water and gently pat your body dry with a clean towel.

• Moisturize: Follow your shower with a moisturizer to seal in hydration and soothe your skin.

Feet and hands

Because the skin on the feet can get very rough, dry, and thick, it’s best to opt for physical exfoliants rather than chemical products. A foot brush or callus-removing brush that can physically remove built-up dead skin should do the trick. You can also use an exfoliating soap to scrub especially tough areas and keep your new skin soft and healthy over time.

Pubic Area

You can exfoliate your bikini area with a gentle product like OffCourt’s Deep Cleansing Body Wash. This formula blends lactic acid and glycolic acid, chemical exfoliants that dissolve dead skin cells while enhancing hydration. Enriched with glycerin and other calming ingredients, it helps soothe and maintain moisture, making it ideal for delicate skin. Always remember, less is more in sensitive areas—keep it gentle to prevent irritation and maintain your skin's natural balance

Deep Cleansing Body Wash - Fresh Citron + Driftwood

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How to Exfoliate Your Skin by Skin Type

Understanding your skin type is essential for choosing the right method and determining how often you should exfoliate your face and body. Tailoring your approach ensures effective results without compromising your skin’s health:

Dry Skin

Stick to gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or glycolic acid, which help remove dead skin cells while hydrating your dry skin. Avoid harsh scrubs that can strip moisture and cause irritation. For best results, exfoliate once a week and follow up with a rich moisturizer, such as OffCourt’s Lightweight Hydrator, which locks in hydration and supports your skin’s barrier.

Sensitive Skin

How to exfoliate sensitive skin? Opt for mild chemical exfoliants like fruit enzymes or low-concentration AHAs. Avoid gritty scrubs that can trigger irritation, and always patch-test new products. Exfoliate every 10 days and pair it with soothing skincare to calm and nourish your skin.

Oily Skin

Oily skin benefits from stronger exfoliants, such as salicylic acid, which penetrates pores to remove excess oil and prevent breakouts. Exfoliate two to three times weekly, balancing chemical exfoliants with gentle physical scrubs.

Combination Skin

For combination skin, tailor your routine to target specific areas: use salicylic acid for oily zones and gentler scrubs for drier spots. Alternating exfoliants help maintain balance and prevent over-drying.

Normal Skin

Lucky and balanced skin types can enjoy both physical and chemical exfoliants. Adjust your routine based on your skincare goals, exfoliating one to three times weekly to maintain a smooth, radiant complexion.

Final Thoughts

Exfoliating is a simple process that can make a massive difference, but it’s important to be careful and mindful as you use it. Start slow, always be gentle, and listen to your skin to find a routine that works for you. 

No matter what yours looks like, you can count on OffCourt to deliver products to help you toward your goals. Check out our full range of products to find out what other skin care solutions fit your needs.

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