The right way to exfoliate: Do's and don’ts for healthy skin in all seasons

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells from the surface, unclogging pores and allowing the skin to breathe.(Image: Oriflame India)

In a country like India, where skin constantly battles environmental aggressors like pollution, dust, humidity, and shifting weather, a good skincare routine has to be more than just surface deep. Among the essential steps, exfoliation often gets overlooked or misunderstood. Done right, it reveals brighter, smoother skin and helps other skincare products absorb better. But overdo it, and you might end up doing more harm than good.

Exfoliation, in simple terms, helps remove dead skin cells from the surface, unclogging pores and allowing the skin to breathe. However, Edyta Kurek, Senior Vice President, Oriflame India and Indonesia, explains the approach must be tailored to different skin types. “Oily skin typically benefits from exfoliation two to three times a week, especially with chemical exfoliants containing BHAs like salicylic acid, which penetrate deep into the pores to remove excess oil and buildup. Dry skin, on the other hand, should be exfoliated just once a week using mild AHAs such as lactic acid, which help to remove dead cells while providing hydration. It’s important to follow up with a nourishing moisturiser to restore moisture levels. Sensitive skin requires the most delicate approach. Enzyme-based or very mild chemical exfoliants are ideal here, and usage should be limited to once a week to avoid irritation.”

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Experts suggest combination skin calls for a more nuanced routine and more frequent exfoliation of the oilier T-zone with milder products. Abrasive scrubs, especially those with rough particles, can lead to microtears and should be avoided altogether. Instead, opt for a gentle exfoliator enriched with moisturising ingredients.

Get right ingredients:

Exfoliation should never be harsh or leave the skin feeling stripped. It is meant to support the skin’s natural renewal process, not overwhelm it. Choosing the right product starts with understanding the ingredients. Physical exfoliators use natural particles like sugar, salt, or finely ground shells to gently buff away dead skin cells. For optimal results and to avoid irritation or microtears, it’s best to choose products with smooth, rounded beads. “Scrubs enriched with nourishing ingredients and botanical extracts offer an effective yet gentle tactile experience. Importantly, it’s wise to avoid exfoliants containing plastic beads (microbeads); natural alternatives are environmentally friendly and kinder to skin,” Kurek advises.

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Chemical exfoliants dig deeper, working below the skin’s surface. AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid are great for dry and uneven skin, boosting brightness and hydration. BHAs such as salicylic acid go further into the pores, targeting excess sebum and are ideal for acne-prone skin. Enzyme exfoliators, made from fruits like papaya or pineapple, are a mild and effective option for sensitive skin, providing resurfacing benefits without physical friction.

Dos and don’ts:

However, even the best exfoliant can backfire if overused. Over-exfoliation weakens the skin’s natural barrier, causing dryness, tightness, sensitivity, and even breakouts. It’s a myth that scrubbing more often yields faster results. If your skin starts showing signs of irritation, it's time to hit pause.

At this point, a recovery routine becomes essential. Calming moisturisers with clinically tested ingredients help soothe and rebuild the skin barrier. Hydrating serums packed with antioxidants and moisture-binding agents can reduce inflammation and replenish what’s lost. A non-negotiable post-exfoliation step is using sunscreen to protect the skin from UV damage and prevent further sensitivity.

Disclaimer: This article only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific diagnosis.