Adults are not immune to the struggles of acne, and many are frustrated by the lack of options available to calm their skin. Acne is a common issue that affects millions of people around the world and it can be difficult to treat effectively.

Fortunately, there is an innovative solution that is popular in the skincare arena: exfoliants. Exfoliants provide a powerful way to heal adult acne skin by giving your skin the tools it needs to effectively fight the bacteria that causes breakouts. They help to unclog pores and deeply clean the skin, remove dead skin cells, and reduce inflammation. The result is a smoother, healthier, and more radiant complexion.

In this blog post, we will discuss the power of exfoliants to heal adult acne skin and the various options that are available to incorporate them into your skincare routine for optimal results.

We will also discuss what types of exfoliants are available on the market, as well as the most effective ingredients to look for to manage acne. Finally, we will discuss some tips that you should keep in mind when using an exfoliant.

(This article is designed to be educational and informative. Please note that this article is not intended to replace professional medical advice.)

Exfoliating your skin is an important part of maintaining healthy skin, especially for those with adult acne. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and dirt from the surface of your skin, which can help prevent and treat acne.

That’s because trapped dirt and oils can clog your pores and lead to acne breakouts. Removing these waste substances can help reduce breakouts. Exfoliants come in a variety of forms, including chemical exfoliants, physical exfoliants, or a combination of the two. You might be wondering what the difference is between chemical exfoliation and physical exfoliation.

Both involve removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, but they work differently.

Physical exfoliation

Physical exfoliation of the face is the manual process to remove dead skin cells and impurities, revealing a smoother complexion."

Physical exfoliation involves using some sort of tool or scrub to manually remove dead skin cells.

This type of exfoliation can be either manual (using a cloth, brush, or scrubbing device) or mechanical (using an abrasive material like a sugar scrub, pumice stone, or loofah). This type of exfoliation can be used on the face and body.

It's important to note that physical exfoliation can cause micro-tears in the skin, so caution should be taken to ensure that the tool or product used isn't too abrasive.

The best approach is to use gentle pressure and motions when exfoliating the skin, to avoid any potential damage. Also, the key is to make sure that you’re not over-exfoliating, as this can lead to inflammation and sensitivity of your skin.

Chemical exfoliation

Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, is an amazing way to give your skin a deep cleanse without abrasive scrubbing. Chemical exfoliation can be done at home or through professional treatments.

It involves using acids and enzymes to break down the bonds between dead skin cells, which are then easily rinsed away.

This type of exfoliation is often used to treat a variety of skin concerns, such as clogged pores, acne, and premature aging. The acids and enzymes used in chemical exfoliation help to reveal brighter and smoother skin while also stimulating collagen production.

Consistent use of chemical exfoliants will lead to a visible decrease in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Chemical exfoliation is a great way to treat a variety of skin conditions, from acne to wrinkles. It can help in reducing the appearance of dark spots, lightening discoloration, and evening out skin tone.

It also helps to unclog pores, remove excess oils and dirt, and balance the skin's natural pH.

When it comes to exfoliation, it's usually recommended to do it 1 to 2 times per week. But remember, everyone's skin is different, so it's important to pay attention to what yours is telling you. If you notice any discomfort or irritation, it's totally okay to take a break from exfoliating for a few days.

There are great benefits when exfoliating your skin on a regular basis:

1. It can help to slough off any dead skin cells generally caused by acne, dirt, and oil that can clog pores and cause breakouts.
2. This helps to unclog and reduce pore size, making it easier for your skin to absorb acne treatments like topical creams and lotions.
3. In addition, exfoliating with an acne-fighting product can help to speed up the healing process of acne, reducing the amount of time it takes for skin to clear up.
4. It also helps to reduce inflammation, irritation, and redness associated with acne and can help to prevent future breakouts.

Research¹ on skin hygiene for people who have acne mentions the following tips:

• You should use mild skin cleansers instead of harsh scrubs and soaps, especially those that dry out the skin.
• It's also a good idea to choose skin care and cosmetic products that won't clog pores. Instead of rubbing your face dry after washing, gently pat it dry.
• Avoid scrubbing your skin too hard or picking at acne, as this can lead to scarring.
• Opt for face washes that are soap-free and moisturizers and sunscreens that are oil-free.

There are so many different types of exfoliants to choose from! You've got scrubs, toners, and even chemical peels. It's all about finding what works best for you and your skin. And use those type of products with added benefits, such as minimizing pores. Each type of exfoliant has a different function:

• A chemical peel (usually administered by trained practitioner) is a stronger form of exfoliant that can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and acne scars, as well as brighten skin.
• Toners are a liquid form of exfoliant that contain acids or enzymes to gently remove the top layer of skin, revealing a brighter and clearer complexion. They offer a great way to refresh the skin and balance your skin’s pH levels.
• Scrubs are great for removing surface impurities and creating a smooth texture. Its a physical exfoliant that uses tiny particles to slough off dead skin cells and make your skin smoother.

12 Gels, Scrubs, And Liquids To Use At Home As Exfoliators

Product Review

Simple, non-irritating skin care products are an absolute must for anyone dealing with acne. Not only are these products gentle on the skin, but they can also help prevent further irritation and inflammation.

When choosing skin care products for acne, be sure to look for natural, non-comedogenic ingredients that won't clog your pores. If you're not sure what ingredients to look for for untreated acne vulgaris, consult with a dermatologist for the best advice.

Avoiding harsh and abrasive products, such as those with high levels of alcohol and fragrances, is also essential to prevent further breakouts and irritation.

We've put together a great selection of exfoliant products that are easy to get your hands on!

#1. Best Facial Scrub For Dull, Dry, Sensitive Skin

Era Organics Microdermabrasion

Introducing a spa-quality exfoliating mask that is just what you need to pamper your skin. Packed with nourishing ingredients like Manuka Honey and Walnut, it's perfect for dry skin and can help combat blackheads and wrinkles too.

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Transform your complexion with the best microdermabrasion facial scrub for dull, dry skin. Get beautiful, more youthful-looking skin with regular use. This scrub helps remove stubborn blackheads, cleanses and minimizes pores, exfoliates and moisturizes down to the base of your skin with each wash - all without a machine.

#2. Best Charcoal Exfoliating Face & Body Scrub

M3 Naturals Collagen + Stem Cell Scrub

Charcoal Scrub Face Foot & Body Exfoliator Infused with Collagen and Stem Cell Natural Exfoliating Salt Body Scrub for Toning Skin Cellulite Skin Care Body by M3 Naturals

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We're excited to offer our natural charcoal as an excellent solution for your skincare needs! Its unique ingredients can help give you the glowing skin you deserve by reducing the appearance of blemishes and acne scars, cellulite, wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, stretch marks, varicose veins, and spider veins.

With natural charcoal granules and coconut oil, this amazing scrub will wash away any toxins and dead skin to restore your skin's natural radiance.

#3. Best Liquid Facial Exfoliant

Neutrogena Skin Perfecting Daily Liquid

Facial Exfoliant with 9% AHA/PHA Blend for Normal & Combination Skin, Smoothing & Brightening Leave-On Exfoliator

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Discover the glow of baby-soft skin with Neutrogena's Skin Perfecting 9% AHA/PHA Liquid Facial Exfoliant! This gentle exfoliant is ideal for all skin tones, and is specially formulated to complement your skin's natural renewal process, helping to lift away dead surface skin to reveal brighter, healthier-looking skin.

#4. Best AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

A Mild Formulation, this advanced exfoliation offers a deeper solution to combat pore congestion, enhancing skin radiance. The formula additionally refines skin texture and diminishes the appearance of fine lines.

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This powerful chemical exfoliant (AHA 30% plus BHA 2%) comes with a convenient dropper for accurate application. It's perfect for those areas that need some special attention, like your nose and upper lip, and will leave your skin feeling smooth and looking radiant. Expect some visible peeling in those areas, too!

#5. Best Glycolic Acid Pads Facial & Body Exfoliant

NUVADERMIS Exfoliating Facial Peel Pads 

Convenient Peel Pads with 35% Glycolic Acid for Natural Skin Resurfacing, Blackheads, Dark Spots, and Acne. Safe for sensitive skin!

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Treat yourself with a potent 35% Glycolic Acid pad to gently exfoliate, radiance your skin, refine skin tone, and unclog pores. Green Tea comes next to deeply moisturize, nourish, calm, cleanse, and soothe your skin. Finally, our Vitamins C and E complex will help to smooth the skin and provide antioxidant protection.

Gently eliminate impurities and enhance skin texture all over your body with our glycolic acid pads! These pads work to delicately peel away the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of facial acne and also that of fine lines and wrinkles. Your skin will be profoundly nourished and hydrated, while also feeling cleansed and softened.

#6. Best Firming and Hydration Glycolic Acid Pads for Face & Body

Tamoskiny 35% Glycolic Acid Pads for Face & Body

AHA Resurfacing Pads with Vitamins B5, C & E, Green Tea, Glycolic Acid Peel

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35% Glycolic Acid Peel Pads from Tamoskiny are perfect for gently exfoliating dead skin surface and boosting cell rejuvenation! These AHA acid peel pads can help reduce dark spots, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, leaving your skin feeling smoother and firmer. These products are enriched with vitamin B5, E, and calendula extract to provide additional firming and hydration benefits.

Exfoliating your skin with these pads can help with reducing scars and to stimulate collagen production, leaving you with a youthful and firm complexion!

#7. Best Hypoallergenic, Non-comedogenic Face Wash

Cetaphil Face Wash

Daily Facial Cleanser: Ideal for Sensitive and Combination to Oily Skin, this gentle, soap-free, and foaming formula ensures a refreshing cleanse.

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Are you looking for a daily cleanser that balances sensitive, combination, or oily skin? Look no further! Cetaphil cleanser is clinically proven to deep clean and remove dirt, excess oils, impurities and pollution microparticles.

Its a great addition to your daily skincare routine to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce the visibility of pores.

#8. Best Built-in Facial Cleansing Brush with soft hypoallergenic silicone bristles

WOW Skin Science Vitamin C Face Wash

Cleansing Foaming Facial Cleanser with the Face Brush for that added strength exfoliation.

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Are you looking to remove dead skin, get a deeper clean, and even boost your blood circulation for an added glow? Our exfoliating face wash find is for both men and women to help you reach your ultimate skincare regime! It has a built-in facial cleansing brush with soft hypoallergenic silicone bristles – perfect for exfoliating the skin.

This product contains Vitamin C extract to help fight signs of aging.

#9. Best Glycolic Acid Serum Peel Exfoliant for Wrinkles, Dark Spots & Acne

Yeouth Glycolic Acid Gel Peel with Retinol Serum

Incorporate this gentle peeling gel with 30% Professional Gel, Retinol, and Green Tea into your skincare routine

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Glycolic acid is the alpha-hydroxy acid most used in the treatment of acne and hyperpigmentation. Yeouth's Glycolic Acid 30% Gel Peel with Retinol Serums treat acne and is a powerful yet gentle exfoliant that can help rid your skin of excess oils and dirt, making your pores look firm and toned!

This extraordinary chemical skin toning solution is the perfect way to say goodbye to dark spots, blemishes, acne, and hyperpigmentation in no time!

#10. Best Gel or Liquid Exfoliant to Minimize Discolorations and Age spots

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant & 2% BHA

This convenient set. Includes both BHA (salicylic acid) and AHA (glycolic acid) products to gently remove dead skin cells & hydrate.

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Upgrade your exfoliation routine with this helpful set! It comes with both BHA and AHA products that are gentle enough to treat acne and remove dead skin cells whilst at the same time, hydrate your skin.

Chamomile and Green Tea can help reduce the appearance of discoloration and age spots, and with consistent use, your skin can look more radiant.

#11. Best Vegan Face Scrub

St. Ives Gentle Smoothing Face Scrub

Includes Rose Water and Aloe Vera for the mildest exfoliating solution to date! Made with 100% natural crushed rose petals and finely milled, polished walnut shell powder.

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Treat yourself with our luxurious two-in-one Gentle Smoothing Rose Water and Aloe Vera Face Scrub! This scrub doubles as a mask, leaving you with a feeling of luxuriousness!

Uses only 100% natural crushed rose petals and walnut shell powder that is finely milled and polished to ensure smooth surfaces for a gentle, yet powerful exfoliant.

#12 Best Fruit Enzymes for Gentle, Non-abrasive Exfoliation

Ongaro Beauty Exfoliating Face Scrub

Organic facial cleanser features a blend of Pumpkin, Grapefruit, Pineapple, and Papaya Enzymes for gentle, non-abrasive exfoliation.

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This face exfoliator is like an instant refresh for your complexion! It sloughs away dull, dead cells that can clog pores, lead to blotchiness, dark spots, and wrinkles.

It's a better option than a chemical peel, as the fruit enzymes in the exfoliator only remove the dead surface skin, revealing your beautiful, glowing complexion.

When it comes to skincare, exfoliating is a great way to remove dead cells from your skin's surface and give your skin a dewy glow. However, it's important to be mindful about how often you exfoliate your skin, especially when you treat acne.

Over-exfoliating can causes damage to your skin's surface, leading to redness, irritation, and even breakouts. To avoid this:

• Stick to exfoliating no more than twice a week.
• Be sure to keep an eye on your skin's surface to see if you experience any tingling, irritation, redness, or flaking. If so, stop using the product or switch to using it once per week.
• Use gentle exfoliants that will work to remove dirt and buildup without being too abrasive.
• Avoid using harsh scrubs or brushes as this will irritate the skin's surface, especially where you have existing acne breakouts.
• Look for products that are very mild exfoliant if you have a sensitive skin.
• Use a chemical peel as this exfoliate without stripping your skin's surface.
• When exfoliating, why not use gentle circular motions? This way, you can prevent any particles from scratching and breaking the skin's surface.
• It's important to always rinse off the products used for exfoliating your face with lukewarm water. Hot water can be too harsh and can irritate your skin's surface. On the other hand, cold water can close your pores and prevent the product from being properly removed.
• After exfoliating, don't forget to treat yourself with a nourishing oil-free moisturizer to keep it feeling soft and hydrated for all skin types, especially when you have dry skin.
• Reminder: Make sure to wear sunscreen with SPF 30+ every day, no matter the weather! |Unfortunately acne can lead to scars. To help reduce the darkening of those scars (hyperpigmentation), it's important to wear sunscreen. This can help improve the look of the scars over time - so it's worth it!

Exfoliating can sometimes leave skin feeling a bit sensitive and looking a bit red, especially when you treat acne. To soothe your skin and restore it to its natural balance, don't forget to follow up with a good moisturizer!

Natural methods of exfoliation are a great way to treat acne and give your face some extra love and attention. Some of the best natural exfoliators include gentle, non-abrasive ingredients from your kitchen cupboard, like oatmeal, yogurt, honey, and sugar.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a great exfoliator because it is a gentle and natural way to remove dead debris in your pores and clear the skin's surface from acne.

Yogurt

Yogurt is another great natural exfoliator because it is full of lactic acid that helps to break down the bond between dead skin cells, making them easier to remove.

Baking soda

Baking soda is also a natural exfoliant that helps to remove dirt, oil from your pores.

Sugar

By using sugar to physically remove the dead skin cells from your face, helps to improve circulation, reduce blemishes, and even out skin tone.

Honey

Honey is known for its natural anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a perfect ingredient for a gentle exfoliant. Honey also contains antioxidants and amino acids, making it beneficial in helping to reduce redness and irritation.

Acne vulgaris and acne prone skin may be genetic and therefore, if it occurs in your family, its likely to that you may develop adolescent acne or adult acne breakouts.

However, there are also other factors that can cause adult acne onset, such as hormones in pregnancy and the menstrual cycle in women, excess oil in your sebaceous glands that clog pores, your diet and stress.

Hormones

According to a top dermatologist, adult acne is more common in women, and tends to show up along the jawline rather than the "t-zone" of the forehead, nose, and chin. Hormones can have a major impact on the level of oil production which cause adult female acne, which can in turn affect the effectiveness of hair products, skin care products, and makeup.

Do you have jawline breakouts and other symptoms like irregular periods, ovarian cysts, weight gain, facial hair, or thinning hair on your head? If so, you may have an underlying condition caused by an oversupply of male hormones (androgens) and may need for you to consult your doctor for the right treatment, apart from getting advice for a good skin care regimen to treat acne breakouts.

Excess oil in your sebaceous glands

Clogged pores can also be a result of excess oil produced by the sebaceous glands and also from using products that are too heavy or are not suited to your skin type. All of these can have an effect on the production of oil in the skin and develop acne, such as hair products, skin care products, and makeup. If these products are overly harsh or don't suit your skin type, they can actually clog your pores and contribute to inflammation.

Your diet and certain types of food

Additionally, your diet plays a role in skin inflammation or excess oil and can trigger acne. The foods you consume can also influence inflammation and your skin's overall health. Avoid to much sugary snacks like eating chocolate which is also known to trigger acne. Instead, eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and essential fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation and promote acne healing.

Stress

Finally, don't forget to take regular breaks and practice stress management techniques to ensure that you're taking care of yourself and to avoid acne. Maybe try taking a few deep breaths, stretching, walking or listening to some calming music. Taking the time to focus on relaxing and reducing stress can make all the difference in how productive you are throughout the day and is good to prevent acne breakouts.

If you're looking for an acne treatment, you have plenty of great options available for a severe form of acne! Depending on how severe your acne is, there's a range of treatments to choose from.

There are two types of treatments: topical and systemic.

Topical acne treatments

Topical acne treatments, like creams, ointments, lotions, and gels, can be applied directly to your skin to help reduce inflammation, kill bacteria, clear clogged pores and even remove hyperpigmentation. These are often the first line of defense against mild to moderate acne breakouts, as they are relatively easy to use and often don't cause side effects.

Topical agents are the first-line treatment for mild-to-moderate acne and can be used as combination therapy for more severe acne. 

If you're looking for a treatment for acne breakouts, start with medicated creams that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or other alpha-hydroxy or beta-hydroxy acids.

It is well accepted that, to help prevent and treat acne, benzoyl peroxide, can be a great choice! This helpful ingredient will cleanse your pores of bacteria, while also clearing away any dead skin and excess oil that can lead to acne.

You can easily find all these ingredients in over the counter acne skincare or by prescription. For more effective results to treat acne prone skin, try retinoids (creams that contain vitamin A) to unclog the hair follicles and absorb excess oils from the sebaceous glands.

If your acne breakouts is evident for longer than two months, if it's causing scarring, and if topical therapies haven't been helpful, it may be time to think about trying a more in-depth systemic treatment regimen.

Systemic acne treatment

Systemic acne treatment regimen, means that acne treatment is usually taken orally and work to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria from within. Your dermatologist can help you determine which treatment option is best for you based on your type of skin and the type, size and location of your acne breakouts.

For milder cases of acne breakouts, over-the-counter solutions may be enough to help clear up your skin. For more severe cases, a combination of both over-the-counter and prescription medications may be needed to get the best results.

If you're a woman dealing with acne caused by hormonal fluctuations, don't worry! Spironolactone can help keep testosterone levels in check. Additionally, birth control pills are a great option for regulating hormones that can contribute to acne.

The in-office treatments available from your dermatologist include photodynamic therapy, which is a light-based treatment that can help clear up your acne breakouts. If you're looking for a way to treat or reduce the appearance of post-inflammatory pigment changes, chemical peels with very strong concentrations of AHAs and BHAs are a great option!

No matter what acne treatment regiment you choose for acne prone skin, sticking to it and being persistent is the key to managing your breakouts and enjoying a healthy life.

We all want to find more effective ways to keep our skin looking healthy and clear. Here are 6 simple habits that can help you achieve just that!

1. Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser.

2. Exfoliate once or twice a week to help remove dead skin cells. 3. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.

4. Avoid touching your face too much or picking at blemishes.

5. Incorporate a weekly face mask into your routine.

6. Wear sunscreen every day to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Last Words

In conclusion, exfoliants are a great way to manage acne and improve skin texture. There are a variety of exfoliants available on the market, each with their own unique benefits.

When selecting an exfoliant, it is important to look for ingredients such as glycolic or lactic acid, as well as natural ingredients like green tea extract or vitamin C. Ensure that you use exfoliants in moderation and to follow the instructions on the product labels.

It is also necessary to use moisturizers that helps to heal your skin and build an effective skin barrier, like ceramides.

With these tips in mind, you can use exfoliants to help improve the look and feel of your skin.

This article is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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Dialedin ReviewsJune Stafford

Do chemical peels get your skin all red, flaky, and peeling?

Chemical peels are a type of skin resurfacing treatment that removes damaged outer layers of skin to help reveal healthier skin. By removing damaged layers of skin, chemical peels help fade scars and blemishes, improve uneven skin tone, smooth wrinkles and fine lines, and rejuvenate the skin. After effects can be sensitivity, redness and flaking until complete healing occurs. The beneficial effects of a chemical peel usually last up to six months.

Which is more effective - Glycolic Acid or Salicylic Acid?

Both products have the same side effects and purposes. Glycolic Acid is a chemical peel that exfoliates skin, and Salicylic Acid is a topical medicine that clears acne by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. Glycolic Acid is more effective, but it requires more skin contact than Salicylic Acid.

Which exfoliation method is better? Microdermabrasion or Baking Soda?

Microdermabrasion involves the use of a handheld device (best administered by a professional) that spins at high speeds to remove dead skin cells. Baking soda exfoliation process, on the other hand, is a lot more simple and you can do it at home. You just need to add baking soda to water, and rub the mixture on your skin. Then wash it off with lukewarm water.