Once more, salicylic acid is a superb selection—it’s anti-inflammatory and works by decreasing the manufacturing of sebum (oil) that contributes to clogged pores, Dr. Lebowitz provides.^{9 10} They each additionally suggest glycolic acid, which has been proven to enhance zits.^{5 11}

Eczema or rosacea-prone pores and skin

If you happen to’re coping with both of those power inflammatory circumstances, it’s essential to see a board-certified dermatologist about how usually—if in any respect—it is best to exfoliate. “I wouldn’t suggest doing it at dwelling except you focus on it along with your physician first,” Dr. Castilla says She particularly cautions in opposition to bodily scrubs (which, once more, might be notably abrasive).

Individuals who have eczema are already coping with a broken pores and skin barrier, which explains signs like cracking or peeling, so over-exfoliating can set off flare-ups, per the Nationwide Eczema Affiliation. Equally, rosacea-prone of us have extremely delicate and simply irritated pores and skin, which is why overdoing it will possibly enhance redness, burning, and/or stinging.

That doesn’t imply exfoliants are solely off-limits, although. Simply be certain to speak to a dermatologist or your major care supplier, you probably have one. These consultants can present extra personalised (and protected) steering, Dr. Castilla says.

What’s the perfect methodology for exfoliating your face?

Let’s begin with bodily exfoliation merchandise. Most of them are cleansers, so it is best to use them on damp pores and skin, per Dr. Lebowitz. She additionally recommends making use of them gently and in round motions (, as you usually would when washing your face), and rinsing completely whenever you’re achieved. Oh, and keep away from dry brushing altogether—Dr. Castilla and Dr. Lebowitz agree that it’s too harsh for the delicate cheeks, brow, and eye space.

Chemical exfoliants, alternatively, are meant for dry pores and skin (after cleaning) and must be used at evening, based on each dermatologists. The pores and skin naturally repairs itself whilst you sleep, Dr. Castilla explains, so exfoliating earlier than mattress can help this course of by eradicating the outer layer of lifeless cells, permitting new ones to come back to the floor extra simply.¹² (Plus, no matter which acid you utilize, exfoliating in the course of the day could make your freshly buffed face extra weak to solar injury.)¹³

Whether or not you bodily or chemically exfoliate, it is best to keep away from utilizing sturdy actives, like extra exfoliating acids, zits remedies, retinol, different retinoids, or vitamin C, on the similar time—all of which might be harsh and will enhance sensitivity.¹⁴ It’s additionally a good suggestion to keep away from added fragrances, which may equally trigger irritation, based on the American Academy of Dermatology.