How Often Should You Exfoliate? A Complete Guide
Exfoliation is one of the most important steps in a healthy skincare routine — but it’s also one of the most misunderstood.
Exfoliate too little, and your skin looks dull and congested.
Exfoliate too much, and your barrier becomes irritated, red, and sensitive.
So how often should you exfoliate?
Here’s a complete guide to help you exfoliate safely and effectively.
What Does Exfoliation Actually Do?
Exfoliation removes the buildup of:
dead skin cells
excess oil
trapped debris
surface dryness
dull texture
This helps your skin:
✔ look brighter
✔ feel smoother
✔ absorb skincare products better
✔ reduce clogged pores
✔ improve makeup application
But exfoliation is powerful — and must be done correctly.
The Two Types of Exfoliation
1. Physical Exfoliation
Manual exfoliation that physically removes dead skin.
Includes:
dermaplaning
gentle facial scrubs (very fine, not harsh)
washcloths or textured pads
Best for:
– dull texture
– peach fuzz
– instant smoothness
Professional dermaplaning is the safest and most effective physical exfoliation.
2. Chemical Exfoliation
Uses acids or enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells.
Includes:
AHAs (glycolic, lactic)
BHAs (salicylic acid)
PHA (gentler acids)
enzyme exfoliants
Best for:
– breakouts
– congested pores
– uneven tone
– smoothing fine lines
Chemical exfoliants penetrate deeper — so frequency matters a LOT.
So… How Often Should You Exfoliate?
Here’s the general rule:
1–3 times per week depending on your skin type.
But let’s break it down more precisely:
Exfoliation Frequency by Skin Type
Oily / Acne-Prone Skin
2–3 times per week
Best exfoliant: BHA (salicylic acid)
Helps unclog pores and prevent breakouts.
Dry Skin
1–2 times per week
Best exfoliant: lactic acid or enzyme exfoliant
Gentle but hydrating.
Sensitive Skin
1 time per week
Best exfoliant: PHA or enzyme exfoliant
Avoid harsh scrubs or strong acids.
Normal/Combination Skin
1–3 times per week
Best exfoliant: AHA/BHA rotation or gentle dermaplaning
If You Get Facials Regularly
Your esthetician will exfoliate professionally during treatments, so at home you may only need:
✔ 1–2 times per week
✔ OR very gentle exfoliation only
Professional exfoliation is more controlled and safer.
Signs You’re Over-Exfoliating
If your skin feels:
tight
shiny
red
stinging
flaky
irritated
easily reactive
You’re exfoliating too often or using exfoliants that are too strong.
Take a break and focus on:
✔ hydration
✔ rich moisturizer
✔ barrier repair
✔ sunscreen
Your barrier needs to recover.
Signs You’re NOT Exfoliating Enough
If your skin looks:
dull
congested
patchy
textured
unable to absorb skincare
makeup sits unevenly
You may need more consistent exfoliation — or a stronger type recommended by your esthetician.
When to Avoid Exfoliating
Avoid exfoliation if you have:
active acne flare-ups
open wounds
eczema or psoriasis flare-ups
sunburn
after microneedling (wait 4–7 days)
after dermaplaning (wait 48–72 hours)
very sensitized skin
When in doubt, ask your esthetician.
Final Thoughts
Exfoliation is essential — but the right frequency depends entirely on your skin type, routine, and sensitivity levels.
When done correctly, it can transform dull, congested skin into a bright, smooth, glowing complexion.
Not sure how often you should exfoliate?
We’ll help you customize a routine at La Reina Aesthetics.