Exfoliation of the face - how to do it right

Exfoliation is a cornerstone of a good skin care routine, but it is also one of the steps that many people either skip – or do incorrectly. If you dream of smoother, fresher and more uniform skin, regular exfoliation can make a significant difference. But how do you exfoliate your face the right way? How often should it be done – and which products should you choose?
In this guide you will get answers to everything you need to know to exfoliate your skin effectively, gently and with visible results.

Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive or mature skin, there is a form of exfoliation that suits you. It's not about scrubbing the skin clean, but about supporting its natural renewal - without overloading it. With the right products and a little patience, you can achieve a healthy, radiant glow all year round.

What is exfoliation?

Exfoliation (or peeling) is about removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. It helps the skin to renew itself, and the result is typically a more glowing and even skin. At the same time, it gives your other products – such as serums and creams – the opportunity to penetrate the skin better.

There are two types of exfoliation:

• Mechanical exfoliation: Physical scrubs with small grains that are massaged onto the skin.

• Chemical exfoliation: Acids (such as AHA, BHA or PHA) that dissolve the dead skin cells without having to be rubbed off.

At Hairsouk.dk you will find a large selection of both types, so you can choose the one that best suits your skin type and your needs.

Why is it important to exfoliate?

Many people experience that the skin becomes gray, dull and uneven - often because dead skin cells pile up and block the skin's natural glow. When you exfoliate:

• Removes dead skin cells

• The pores are cleaned and visibly reduced

• Products penetrate better

• The skin's surface becomes softer and more uniform

• Sebum and excess fat are reduced

The result is often evident after just a few treatments – especially if you choose products with active ingredients adapted to your skin.

AHA, BHA or PHA – which should you choose?

When it comes to chemical exfoliation, it's important to choose the right type of acid:

• AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) - eg glycolic acid and lactic acid - is ideal for dry and normal skin. It improves the skin's structure and gives it a glow.

• BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acids) - typical salicylic acid - is suitable for oily and impure skin, as it penetrates the pores and removes excess sebum.

• PHA (Polyhydroxy Acids) – is milder than both AHA and BHA, and suitable for sensitive skin.

Whichever you choose, you should start slowly and follow the product's directions closely.

How often should you exfoliate?

It depends on skin type and product. As a rule of thumb:

• Dry or sensitive skin: 1 time per week

• Normal or combination skin: 2 times a week

• Oily or impure skin: 2–3 times a week

Overexfoliation can cause redness, dryness and a weakened skin barrier. If you experience irritation, take a break and focus on moisturizing and soothing products instead.

Step-by-step: How to exfoliate your face

1. Clean the skin thoroughly with a mild cleanser

Start by removing dirt, makeup and excess oil so your skin is ready to receive the exfoliation. A good cleanser ensures that the exfoliating product can penetrate properly and work effectively.

2. Apply your exfoliation – either as a mask, scrub or liquid

Choose a product that suits your skin type:
– Scrubs with fine-grained particles suitable for more robust skin
– Chemical exfoliation such as AHA or BHA are good for sensitive, impure or mature skin
– Exfoliating masks may be ideal as a weekly regimen

3. Leave to work as directed

Follow the instructions on the product carefully – some exfoliants only work for a few minutes, while others can last longer. Chemical variants often do not require rinsing immediately, but must have time to work in depth.

4. Rinse and dry gently

Use lukewarm water and a soft cloth or your hands. Avoid rubbing – the skin may be more sensitive after exfoliation. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel.

5. Finish with moisturizing cream or lotion

Your skin now needs care and protection. Use a moisturizing and soothing cream or lotion to help restore the skin's barrier and retain moisture.

At Hairsouk.dk you will find creams that restore the moisture balance and soothe the skin after exfoliation – an important last step so that the skin feels nourished, soft and resilient.

Good advice for you who want to exfoliate your face:

• Avoid combining exfoliation with other active ingredients such as retinol and strong vitamin C in the same routine.

• Always use sun protection the next day (and preferably daily), as the skin becomes more susceptible to sun damage.

• Try to exfoliate in the evening when the skin is ready for recovery.

• Give your skin peace of mind – you don't need to scrub hard or use many products at once.

Exfoliation in summer and winter months

Your skin has different needs depending on the season:

In winter: The skin is typically more dry and sensitive. Cold, wind and indoor heat can dry out the skin, so it is important to choose a mild exfoliation – preferably with moisturizing ingredients. Afterwards, you should use a nourishing cream or lotion, which protects the skin barrier and counteracts dryness.

In summer: Here, the skin often has more sebum production, and you sweat more. Light acids such as PHA or AHA can keep the skin fresh and free of clogged pores. However, always remember to use sunscreen, as exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to the sun's rays. Avoid exfoliating the day before a trip to the beach or longer stays in the sun, as the skin may be more exposed.

Do you want to combine exfoliation with sun protection? So take a look Hairsouk's selection of sun care and find an SPF that suits your skin. A good sunscreen is not only protection – it also helps to prevent pigment changes and ageing.

Which exfoliation is right for my skin type?

Dry skin:

• Use AHA and enzymes

• Avoid harsh scrubs

• Apply moisture afterwards
  
  

Oily/impure skin:

• Use BHA (salicylic acid)

• Clean the pores in depth

• Avoid oily creams
  
  

Sensitive skin:

• Start with PHA

• Exfoliate max. once a week

• Avoid perfume and alcohol
  
  

Mature skin:

• Use AHA to reduce fine lines

• Combine with anti-aging moisturiser

• Always use sunscreen afterwards

Should you always exfoliate?

No. There are situations where you should take a break:

• If the skin is sunburned, injured or irritated

• During certain medical treatments

• If you use a prescription retinoid

• In case of active rosacea or eczema

Always listen to your skin. If it feels warm, red or tight - give it rest and plenty of moisture.

Exfoliation is therefore important – but not everything

Although exfoliation is effective, it is not the solution to all skin problems. Think of it as one step in an overall skincare routine that also includes:

• Gentle clean

• Moisture care

• Protection

• Nutrition

By combining exfoliation with good habits and products that suit your skin, you will achieve the best results over time.

Exfoliate with care

Exfoliating the face is all about balance. If you do it too little, the skin finds it difficult to renew itself - but if you do it too often or with too harsh means, you risk irritation and imbalance.

With the right products and a gentle approach, exfoliation can become one of your most effective skincare habits. Use the products that suit you - and adjust along the way if the skin changes.