Exfoliating is important for maintaining healthy, glowing skin. However, just like anything else in skincare, too much of a good thing can be detrimental. So how do you know if you have over-exfoliated skin? Here are some signs, symptoms and solutions to determine if you need to decrease the intensity of your exfoliation routine.

PHYSICAL VS. CHEMICAL EXFOLIATION

First things first: there are two main types of exfoliation. Physical exfoliation involves manually scrubbing the skin with a tool or product or using products containing granules to remove dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, uses ingredients like enzymes, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to dissolve dead skin cells.

Regular exfoliation is a necessary step in a professional skincare regimen to remove dead skin cells that lead to clogged pores, renew your skin and clarify your complexion. However, over-exfoliating strips your skin of natural oils and weakens your skin barrier.

THE BIGGEST SIGNS YOU MIGHT BE OVER-EXFOLIATING

If you have been experiencing any of these signs, you may have over-exfoliated skin:

Tightness or Dryness: If your skin feels tight and dry after exfoliating, it's a sign that you've stripped away too much of its natural oils.

Changes in Skin Texture: Over-exfoliating can also cause your skin to become rough and flaky.

Redness or Irritation: Over-exfoliating can cause irritation, redness and even small bumps—especially if you have sensitive skin.

Increased Oil Production: Over-exfoliating can also lead to increased oil production as your skin tries to compensate for the loss of natural oils.

Breakouts or Acne: Excessive exfoliation can disrupt your skin's natural pH balance, and exfoliating over inflamed acne lesions can spread bacteria, leading to breakouts or acne flare-ups.

Sensitivity: If your skin has become more sensitive to sun damage and environmental stressors, it could be a result of over-exfoliation.

WHAT CONTRIBUTES TO OVER-EXFOLIATION?

The most common way to over-exfoliate is by exfoliating too frequently. Because all exfoliating products have different percentages of active ingredients, some can be used more frequently than others. Using a deep-penetrating exfoliator more than twice a week is the easiest way to over-exfoliate. Always check the product instructions and follow the instructions given by your licensed aesthetician for the best frequency of use.

Other factors that can contribute to over-exfoliated skin include:

• Using harsh physical exfoliants or tools
• Using too-strong chemical exfoliants
• Using multiple exfoliating products in one routine
• Using products that are too active and aggressive for your skin
• Not following up with proper hydration and moisturization

Your skin type typically determines how you should exfoliate. If you have oily skin, you may need to exfoliate more frequently and with physical or strong chemical exfoliants; those with dry or sensitive skin should be more cautious and look for products with gentle enzymes.

SOLUTIONS: HOW TO HEAL OVER-EXFOLIATED SKIN

If you suspect you may have over-exfoliated your skin, here are some steps you can take to heal your skin and avoid over-exfoliating in the future:

TAKE A BREAK

Give your over-exfoliated skin a break from exfoliating for at least a week or longer if needed. This will allow your skin to repair and balance itself.

SWITCH TO A GENTLE EXFOLIATOR

If you're using a physical or harsh exfoliant, consider switching to a gentler exfoliant such as our Bio Renewal Serum. Look for ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to calm and nourish the skin, and enzymes for a less abrasive exfoliant that won’t upset sensitive skin.

BOOK A SOOTHING TREATMENT

Consider booking a professional facial or skincare treatment focused on repairing and nourishing your over-exfoliated skin. This can help speed up the healing process and give your skin the TLC it needs.

HYDRATE AND MOISTURIZE

During your break from exfoliating, focus on hydrating and balancing your skin. Pair a gentle, soothing cleanser with a moisturizer packed with healing ingredients to nourish and strengthen your skin's natural barrier. Our Recovery Cream with Arnica combines natural botanicals with active arnica extract to calm and repair damaged skin. Or, to focus on rebuilding your skin barrier, take advantage of the ceramides and lipids in our Barrier Repair Cream with Amino Acids.

GRADUALLY RE-INTRODUCE EXFOLIATION

When you're ready to start exfoliating again, do so gradually. Start with once a week and pay attention to how your skin reacts. Adjust the frequency and strength of your routine based on your skin response.

PROPER EXFOLIATION 101

Prevention is always better than cure! To avoid over-exfoliated skin in the future, use this trusted guide to exfoliate properly:

Choose the Right Exfoliator for Your Skin Type: As mentioned, different skin types have different exfoliation needs. Oily, acne-prone skin will benefit from an exfoliator with the perfect combination of AHAs and herbal remedies, like in our Serious Action Masque. Dry or sensitive skin will do better with an exfoliating cleanser like our Radiant Serum with 1% Mandelic Acid, which gently removes dead skin cells without stripping the skin.

Don't Overdo It: As tempting as it may be, avoid exfoliating too frequently. Stick to once or twice a week and adjust as needed.

Be Gentle: Whether you're using a physical or chemical exfoliant, avoid harsh rubbing or scrubbing to prevent irritation.

Always Follow Up with Hydration: After exfoliating, always follow up with proper hydration and moisturization. This will help nourish and protect your skin while it repairs itself.

Listen to Your Skin: Lastly, pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and routines. If something feels off or your skin shows signs of over-exfoliation, adjust accordingly.

Remember, balance is key. Choose the right products and follow a proper routine to ensure beautiful, radiant skin. If you're unsure about the best exfoliation routine for your specific needs, consult with a GlyMed Pro for professional recommendations from an expert.