How to exfoliate your skin and body properly
Written byNatalie Beastall
Reviewed byMolly Arnold, MSc Nutritionist
Dull skin? Flaky patches? Not sure if you need a face exfoliator or exfoliating scrub? Explore exfoliators, how to exfoliate properly and common mistakes to avoid
Summary
1What is exfoliation?
Exfoliation is the process of removing those dead skin cells from the surface of your skin to help reveal smoother, brighter-looking skin.
2Chemical vs physical exfoliation
Chemical exfoliation uses active ingredients, such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, while physical exfoliation uses a textured product or tool.
3How to exfoliate
The best way depends on whether you're using a physical scrub or a chemical exfoliant, but whichever you choose, gentle is always best.
You've probably heard that exfoliation is the secret to glowing skin. But with so many products promising smoother, brighter-looking results, it's easy to wonder where to start. Do you need an exfoliating scrub, a face scrub or a chemical exfoliator? And what does exfoliating actually involve?
The truth is, the best exfoliator isn't the same for everyone. Whether you're wondering how to exfoliate your face or body properly or choosing the right product for your skin type, here's what you need to know before adding this skincare step to your routine.
What is exfoliation?
If glowing, smoother-looking skin is the goal, exfoliation could be the skincare step you're missing. Exfoliation is the process of removing those dead skin cells from the surface of your skin to help reveal smoother, brighter-looking skin. If your complexion is looking lacklustre or feeling a little flaky, an exfoliating scrub or other exfoliating product could help refresh your routine.
Despite the name, exfoliation doesn't mean scrubbing your skin until it squeaks. There are different ways to exfoliate, from exfoliating scrubs that physically buff away dead skin cells to chemical exfoliants that gently dissolve them. The key is finding the right method for your skin type.
Chemical vs physical exfoliation
When it comes to exfoliating, there are two main approaches: physical and chemical. Both help remove dead skin cells, but they work in very different ways.
Physical exfoliation
This is exactly what it sounds like. It uses a textured product or tool – such as a face scrub, body scrub, muslin cloth, exfoliating mitt or cleansing brush – to manually buff away dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. While this can leave skin feeling instantly smoother, scrubs that are too harsh or used too often can irritate the skin.
ila Wellness
£40.00
£8.00/10 g
Chemical exfoliation
On the other hand, this doesn't involve any scrubbing at all. Instead, it uses active ingredients, such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, to help loosen dead skin cells, so they can shed more easily.1 Both chemical and physical can irritate the skin though if they’re too strong or used too often.2
Chemical exfoliants can also be used on the body, particularly on rough areas such as the arms, legs or back while also providing a more even exfoliation across the skin.3 Body products are often formulated differently to facial exfoliants, however. That said, the best choice depends on your skin type and concerns, and whichever method you choose, it's important not to overdo it.
NeoStrata
£69.00
£55.20
£92.00/100 ml
How to exfoliate
The best way to exfoliate depends on whether you're using a physical scrub or a chemical exfoliant, but whichever you choose, gentle is always best. Over-exfoliating can disrupt your skin barrier and leave skin feeling sore, tight or delicate.4 If you're using a physical exfoliant, such as an exfoliating scrub, body scrub or face scrub, massage it onto damp skin using light, circular motions.
For the face, use gentle pressure and avoid the delicate eye area. On the body, pay a little extra attention to rougher areas such as elbows, knees and heels, but avoid scrubbing aggressively – let the product or tool do the work. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a moisturiser to help lock in hydration.
Hydréa London
£7.49
£7.49/1 Item
If you're using a chemical exfoliant, apply it according to the product instructions. These products are usually used after cleansing and before moisturising, although the exact order can vary depending on the formula. Start slowly, especially if you're new to acids, and gradually increase how often you use them if your skin tolerates it well. Whichever method you choose, avoid exfoliating skin that's broken, sunburnt or irritated, and remember to wear SPF during the day. Exfoliation can leave freshly revealed skin more sensitive to UV rays, making daily sun protection even more important.
Q+A
£9.00
£6.75
£2.70/100 ml
The benefits of exfoliating
Used correctly, exfoliation can leave your skin looking and feeling its best. While it won't transform your complexion overnight, removing the build-up of dead skin cells can help reveal fresher-looking skin and may help your skincare products apply more smoothly. Some of the potential benefits of exfoliating are...
Brighter-looking skin
One of the first things people notice after exfoliating is that their skin looks more radiant. As dead skin cells naturally build up on the surface of the skin, your complexion can start to look a little dull. Removing this build-up can leave skin looking smoother, brighter and more refreshed.2
Smoother skin texture
Regular exfoliation may also help improve the look and feel of uneven skin texture on both the face and body. By buffing away rough, flaky patches or encouraging dead skin to shed more evenly, skin can feel softer and appear smoother over time.5
May help your skincare work more effectively
While exfoliation doesn't hydrate the skin itself, it may help moisturisers and other leave-on skincare products apply more evenly by removing excess dead skin from the skin's surface.5 Following up with a moisturiser after exfoliating can also help keep your skin feeling comfortable.
Exfoliating by skin type
The best exfoliator for you depends on your skin type and concerns. What works well for one person may be too harsh for another, so it's worth choosing a product that suits your skin rather than following the latest trend. If you have delicate or sensitive skin look for exfoliants that are formulated specifically for your skin type.
If your skin is on the oilier side or you're prone to clogged pores, a chemical exfoliant containing ingredients like salicylic acid may be a suitable option. Salicylic acid can help remove dead skin cells and may help with clogged pores, making it a popular option for oily or blemish-prone skin.1 Start with a lower strength and introduce it gradually.
Dry skin can benefit from gentle exfoliation to help lift flaky skin and leave the complexion looking smoother. Lactic acid may be a suitable option for dry skin as it exfoliates while also helping to attract moisture to the skin.2,6 Avoid harsh scrubs that can leave already-dry skin feeling even more uncomfortable.
If your skin is easily irritated, less is often more. Some exfoliating tips for sensitive skin include looking for gentle chemical exfoliants and products designed specifically for sensitive skin.7 Make sure to patch test new products first and avoid exfoliating if your skin is already feeling sore or inflamed.
Combination skin often needs a balanced approach. You may find a gentle chemical exfoliant works well across the whole face or you might prefer to focus exfoliation on oilier areas, such as the T-zone, where dead skin cells and excess oil tend to build up more quickly.
Common exfoliating mistakes
When it comes to exfoliation, more isn't always better. In fact, overdoing it is one of the most common reasons your skin can end up feeling irritated rather than refreshed. Here are a few mistakes worth avoiding.
Exfoliating too often
Using an exfoliator every day isn't necessary for most people. Exfoliating too frequently may disrupt your skin barrier, leaving skin feeling tight, dry or more sensitive.4 How often you exfoliate will depend on your skin type and the product you're using, so always follow the instructions on the label.
Being too rough
Whether you're using an exfoliating scrub, mitt or cleansing brush, scrubbing harder won't give you better results. Gentle pressure is all that's needed as vigorous rubbing can irritate the skin.
Using too many active ingredients together
It's easy to get carried away with skincare, but layering multiple exfoliating acids or combining them with other potent active ingredients, such as retinoids, can increase the risk of irritation.8 If you're introducing a new exfoliant, keep the rest of your routine simple until you know how your skin responds.
Forgetting moisturiser and SPF
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, so following up with a moisturiser can help replenish hydration and support the skin barrier. It's also important to wear a broad-spectrum SPF during the day, as freshly exfoliated skin can be more sensitive to UV rays.
Exfoliating FAQs
As a general rule, it's best to start slowly and follow the instructions on your product, as some chemical exfoliants are designed for more frequent use than others. If your skin starts to feel tight, sore or irritated, it may be a sign you're exfoliating too often.
Yes. The skin on your face and body have different needs, so body exfoliators are often formulated to be a little more robust. However, gentle exfoliation is still important. Avoid using harsh body scrubs on your face and always choose products designed for the area you're treating.
Potentially. Exfoliating too often or using products that are too harsh may disrupt your skin barrier.4 This can leave your skin feeling dry, tight or more prone to redness. If you notice these signs, it's a good idea to take a break from exfoliating and focus on a simple routine with a gentle cleanser, moisturiser and daily SPF until your skin feels comfortable again.
If you have sensitive skin, the key is to keep things gentle. Choose mild exfoliating products, such as those formulated with polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) or enzyme exfoliants, which are formulated specifically for delicate and sensitive skin types.7 Introduce new products gradually, patch test before using them more widely and avoid exfoliating skin that's already irritated or broken.
The final say
Exfoliation isn't about chasing perfectly smooth skin or using the strongest products you can find. In fact, knowing when not to exfoliate is just as important as knowing how to exfoliate skin. Choosing the right exfoliator for face or body, using it consistently rather than excessively and listening to your skin will usually get you further than following the latest skincare trend. After all, healthy-looking skin is about doing what works for you.
Keen to get more beauty tips? Learn about dermaplaning and whether you should do it at home or our best sunscreen and aftersun picks.
Disclaimer – This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Working with experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.
1. Șoimița Emiliana Măgerușan, Hancu G, Rusu A. A Comprehensive Bibliographic Review Concerning the Efficacy of Organic Acids for Chemical Peels Treating Acne Vulgaris. Molecules. 2023 Oct 22;28(20):7219–9.
2. Almeman AA. Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids in Dermatological Practice: A Comprehensive Clinical and Legal Review. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology [Internet]. 2024 July 16 [cited 2026 Aug 12];17:1661–85. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11268769/
3. Samargandy S, Raggio BS. Skin Resurfacing Chemical Peels [Internet]. PubMed. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020 [cited 2026 Aug 3]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547752/
4. Andriessen A, Wiegand C, Eberlein T, Erfurt-Berge C, Roes C. Clinical Experience Using a Monofilament Fiber Cleansing and Debriding Technology for Various Skin Conditions. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2022 Oct 1;21(11):1173–80.
5. Grajqevci-Kotori M, Kocinaj A. Exfoliative Skin-peeling, Benefits from This Procedure and Our Experience. Medical Archives [Internet]. 2015 Dec 1 [cited 2026 July 30];69(6):414–6. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4720453/
6. Feng X, Shang J, Gu Z, Luo X, Chen Y, Liu Y. Lactic Acid Chemical Peeling in Skin Disorders. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology. 2024 Apr 1;Volume 17:901–9.
7. Kornhauser A. Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. 2010 Nov;3:135.
8. Angga Cipta Narsa, Cecep Suhandi, Janifa Afidika, Salsabil Ghaliya, Elamin KM, Nasrul Wathoni. A Comprehensive Review of the Strategies to Reduce Retinoid‐Induced Skin Irritation in Topical Formulation. Dermatology Research and Practice. 2024 Jan 1;2024(1).
Related to this article
