Your skin is constantly working, it naturally renews itself every few weeks. But over time, this process slows down—and when it does, the dull skin can linger, leaving your complexion looking a little weak.
The good news? You can give your skin a hand. A regular exfoliation ritual helps it gently rise to the surface – revealing that healthy, natural glow underneath.
If you’ve ever wondered how to exfoliate properly or what’s the best way to exfoliate your face, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s explore the benefits, the different types, and where it can fit into your current routine.
The benefits of exfoliation
Exfoliation is the art of clearing away what your skin no longer needs—dead skin, excess oil, and buildup—so it can renew itself freely. But it’s more than just a cosmetic step. Regular exfoliation also:
- Reveals radiance: By clearing dull surface cells, it reveals a smoother, brighter complexion.
- Supports renewal: It encourages your skin’s natural turnover cycle to work overtime.
- Enhances elasticity: Supports natural collagen, promoting firmer, firmer skin.
- Improves tone and texture: Softens the appearance of dark spots, post-blemish marks, fine lines and unevenness.
- Strengthens your barrier: When the buildup is gone, your skincare can work more effectively, helping to keep your skin barrier balanced and supple.
Think of exfoliation as a simple reset for your skin—one that helps it feel soft, smooth, and healthy from the inside out.
Types of exfoliation
There’s no one right way to exfoliate – it’s all about finding the rhythm and texture your skin loves best. But in general, there are two main methods: natural and chemical.
1. Physical exfoliation
This type of exfoliation uses small particles or tools to gently remove surface buildup. It’s the classic, tactile way to exfoliate—one that’s instantly smooth and satisfying clean skin feeling.
Gentle scrub for daily use they are ideal for most skin types. Look for naturally derived particles that help improve skin without overdoing it.
Try this: Essential Scrub, our daily exfoliating cleanser that cleanses and polishes while respecting your skin’s natural balance. With soft olive particles and a refreshing gel texture, it leaves skin soft, refreshed and glowing in just one step.
2. Chemical exfoliation
Chemical peeling works more quietly but goes deeper. Instead of scrubbing, it uses ingredients that loosen the bonds keeping the dead skin around, revealing a smoother surface underneath.
These exfoliants are powered by acids like glycolic and salicylic, which resurface skin in a more gradual and even manner—ideal for improving tone, texture and overall clarity.
You can combine physical and chemical exfoliation for optimal results. Just be sure to choose gentle products, start slow and listen to your skin.
AHA vs BHA: the ideal exfoliating acids
When we talk about chemical exfoliation, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are the main players. Although both share the same goal, each works in different ways with its own targeted benefits.
Glycolic acid (AHA): The ultimate rejuvenator
Derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid is one of skincare’s most trusted ingredients for renewal. Because it is water solubleworks primarily on the surface to gently improve texture and tone. Research shows that Glycolic acid also supports collagenhelping to keep skin firm and smooth over time.
Try this: Glicoisdin®️, your personalized glycolic acid peel. Whether you choose a cream or gel texture, each formula helps promote renewal, improve texture and reveal visibly brighter, more even skin.
Salicylic Acid (BHA): The pore specialist
Salicylic acid takes a different approach. Because it’s fat-soluble, it speaks the same language as your pores—reducing oil, decongesting skin, and improving overall texture. It is especially useful for combination or blemish-prone skin, promoting a smoother and clearer appearance.
Other exfoliants you should know about
While glycolic and salicylic are two of the most popular, they’re not the only acids you’ll find in your favorite skincare products:
- Lactic acid (AHA): Gently exfoliates while boosting hydration—perfect for dry or sensitive skin.
- Mandelic acid (AHA): A slower-acting option derived from almonds, ideal for targeting pigmentation without overly sensitive skin.
- Gluconolactone (PHA or polyhydroxy acid): It offers ultra-gentle exfoliation and antioxidant protection, making it ideal for sensitive or mature skin.
Some advanced formulas are combined AHAs, BHAs and PHAs to deliver multi-level results—whitening, smoothing and perfecting all at once.
How to exfoliate your face, step by step
1. Start with a smooth canvas
Leave it to a gentle cleansing scrub to start things off strong. Designed for those looking to smooth texture, this type of cleanser can help remove dead skin and minimize the appearance of pores. Use gentle circular motions and rinse thoroughly for a refreshed, polished feel.
2. Choose the right chemical exfoliator for your skin
There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to exfoliation. So make sure you choose a product that suits your specific skin type. You’ll also want to pay attention to the concentration of exfoliating acids, especially if it’s your first time.
For dry or sensitive skin: Glicoisdin®️ 8 Soft simultaneously moisturizes and renews. With 3.2% free glycolic acid, ceramides and borage oil, it gently exfoliates while enhancing elasticity and hydration.
For oily or combination skin: Glicoisdin®️ 15 Moderate combines soothing ingredients and 6.1% free glycolic acid to boost cell turnover, even out skin tone and improve texture, especially in acne-prone skin.
For uneven or mature skin: Reach for Glicoisdin®️ 25 Intense. With 9.5% free glycolic acid and soothing aloe vera, it helps blur dark spots, smooth fine lines and restore radiance.
Start slow, using your chosen formula two or three nights a week. As your skin adjusts, you can gradually increase the frequency.
Your questions about exfoliation, answered
Should I exfoliate in the morning or at night?
The evening is ideal. Exfoliating before bed helps support your skin’s overnight renewal process—and gives your products time to work while you rest. Here’s the perfect order for your complete routine:
- Facial cleanser
- Eye contour
- Exfoliator or serum
- Moisturizing cream
- The next day: Sunscreen
How often should I exfoliate my skin?
The answer depends on your skin type, your exfoliant, and how your skin responds.
- Natural exfoliation: Gentle scrubs such as Essential Scrub can often be used daily.
- Chemical peeling: Start with two to three times a week and then gradually increase. (Always check your product label for instructions.)
If your skin feels tight, dry or irritated, take a short break. A balanced approach is always the best way to exfoliate — one that keeps your skin soft, smooth, and comfortable.
Can I use the same exfoliator for my face and body?
It is better to use separate products. Keep in mind that the skin on the body is usually thicker and more durable than the skin on the face. Choose products designed specifically for each area.
Love your skin
Exfoliating is one of those quiet rituals that can completely transform the way your skin looks and feels. Whether you prefer the instant softness of a gentle scrub, the refined glow of chemical exfoliants, or both, the secret is consistency and care.
Treat your skin with kindness, follow each exfoliation with hydration and protection and take some time to enjoy the feel of it. Because when you take care of your skin, shows
Rreferences:
Clinical and cosmeceutical uses of hydroxyacids Barbara A Green 1, Ruey J Yu, Eugene J Van Scott Cosmetic and dermatologic use of alpha hydroxyacids Philipp Babilas, Ulrich Knie, Christoph Abels Glycolic acid peel therapy - a current review Jaishree Sharad Chemical peels in active acne and acne scars Georgios Kontochristopoulos, Eftychia Platsidaki Topical urea in skincare: A review Leonardo Celleno
Editorial team
Our namesake embodies the spirit of embracing life and all its wonder. As wellness journalists, we explore topics that stimulate the senses and keep curiosity alive. We believe that glowing skin is the result of a healthy body and mind. By connecting beauty with science, we aim to inspire you to live young at every age.
