How to Exfoliate Without Damaging Your Skin: A Dermatologist-Backed Guide
Exfoliation is essential for smooth, glowing skin — but when done incorrectly, it can cause sensitivity, breakouts, and barrier damage. Here’s how to do it right.
Why Exfoliation Matters
Your skin naturally sheds dead surface cells, but this process slows down over time. When buildup accumulates, it leads to:
- Dull, uneven skin tone
- Clogged pores and breakouts
- Texture irregularities
- Dry, flaky patches
Exfoliating acids help remove this buildup safely — if used correctly.
The 3 Types of Exfoliating Acids
1. AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
Water-soluble acids that exfoliate the surface layer of the skin. Ideal for dryness, dullness, and uneven tone.
- Glycolic Acid: the strongest AHA; improves texture and brightness.
- Lactic Acid: a gentler option that exfoliates while keeping skin hydrated.
Best for: Dull, uneven skin, fine lines, rough texture
2. BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids)
Oil-soluble acids that dive into pores and dissolve excess sebum.
- Salicylic Acid: the hero acid for acne, blemishes, and congestion.
Best for: Acne, blackheads, oily skin, clogged pores
3. PHAs (Polyhydroxy Acids)
Gentle, hydrating acids with larger molecules that exfoliate slowly without irritation.
Best for: Sensitive skin, compromised barriers, gentle daily use
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
More is not better — over-exfoliation is one of the most common causes of sensitivity and breakouts.
- Daily Toners (like Glyco 8): 1x daily or 3–5x/week
- Peeling Serums (like Formula Reset): 1–2x per week only
- Sensitive skin: Start slow — 2–3x/week
Always watch for signs of over-exfoliation: stinging, redness, tightness, or sudden breakouts.
How to Exfoliate Safely
- Always start slow — increase frequency gradually.
- Never combine multiple strong acids on the same day.
- Follow with hydrating, barrier-supporting products.
- Use SPF daily — exfoliation increases sun sensitivity.
- Stop immediately if your skin feels tender or overly dry.
Which Exfoliant Should You Use?
For Dull, Uneven Tone
Glyco 8 Exfoliating Toner uses 8% Glycolic + Lactic Acid to reveal brightness with daily gentle resurfacing.
For Acne, Oil, or Congestion
Acne Control Cleanser (2% Salicylic Acid) clears pores and smooths texture.
For Stubborn Texture & Dark Marks
Formula Reset Peeling Treatment combines AHA + BHA + PHA for powerful weekly renewal.
Who Should Avoid Acids?
- Anyone with a compromised or irritated barrier
- Skin currently peeling, inflamed, or sunburned
- Those using prescription-strength retinoids (unless guided by a dermatologist)
If you’re unsure where to begin, start slow with a gentle AHA or PHA toner.
In Summary
Exfoliation is transformative when done correctly — brighter tone, smoother texture, fewer breakouts. The key is choosing the right acid, using it consistently, and avoiding irritation by supporting your skin barrier.
Shop exfoliants from Skyn Med:
Glyco 8 Exfoliating Toner
Formula Reset Peeling Treatment
Written by Skyn Med Lab — where clinical science meets everyday skin.