How to Exfoliate Sensitive Skin (Without Drying It Out)

We all know to cleanse and moisturize our faces morning and night if we want beautiful, youthful looking skin.

But do you also know about the importance of exfoliation?

Exfoliation is key because it removes dead skin cells that can clog pores, trap oil, and create a dull, acne-prone complexion.

The tricky question is, how do you exfoliate sensitive skin? The last thing you want is to leave your face dry, red and raw.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Use this go-to guide to learn how to exfoliate your sensitive skin.

How to Exfoliate Sensitive Skin

Our skin is a complex organ composed of regenerating cells that are layered by the millions. As they rise to the surface and dry out, new cells are produced.

Exfoliation is the process of sloughing off these dry cells.

The trick is to do it right and not irritate your skin. This can be intimidating for those of us with sensitive skin. Here’s how to do it right.

Ditch the Harsh Ingredients

So many commercial skin care products contain harsh dyes, fragrances, and other chemicals that can harm our skin.

Read the labels of the products you are using. Even better, make a scrub yourself so you know exactly what is going into it. Try one of our budget-friendly DIY face scrub recipes!

To exfoliate sensitive skin, avoid ingredients like glycolic acid, harsh scrubbing beads, or scrubbing crystals.

While these products may work for some skin types, sensitive skin will end up red, blotchy, and irritated.

Instead, choose gentler exfoliants such as an oatmeal honey scrub.

Don’t Overdo It

Unlike cleansing and moisturizing, you should not exfoliate sensitive skin every day.

Start out by exfoliating once a week and see how your skin reacts.

Also, there is no need to apply excessive pressure when exfoliating. Remember that you want to gently scrub, not scratch. Treat your skin with the gentle care you would a baby’s.

Try a Chemical Exfoliator

The word “chemical” may sound like we want your face to look like Samantha’s did after her chemical peel. But we promise, that’s not the case.

A chemical exfoliator is simply the alternative to a physical exfoliator (one that uses a scrubbing agent such as beads, crystals, or salt).

Chemical exfoliators contain enzymes or acids that dissolve the dead cells rather than scrubbing them off.

Choosing a gentle chemical exfoliator can help to reduce inflammation and irritation. As with a physical exfoliator, be sure not to over-do it. Once a week tops!