Should You Exfoliate Every Day? Here’s What Your Skin Really Needs
If you’ve ever been told to “scrub your skin every day to keep it glowing,” you’re not alone. Exfoliation is often marketed as a quick fix for dullness, breakouts, and texture — but can too much of a good thing do harm?
Let’s break it down.
What Exfoliation Actually Does
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells from the surface, which:
Brightens dull or uneven skin
Reduces the chance of clogged pores
Helps active ingredients penetrate better
Smooths texture over time
There are two main types:
Physical exfoliation: scrubs, brushes, and cleansing devices
Chemical exfoliation: acids like AHAs (lactic, glycolic) and BHAs (salicylic)
Both can be helpful — but when used too often, they can compromise the skin’s natural barrier.
Why Daily Exfoliation Can Cause Problems
Exfoliating every day, especially with active acids or gritty scrubs, can lead to:
Redness and irritation
Increased sensitivity or reactivity
Dehydrated, tight-feeling skin
Breakouts caused by barrier disruption
In many cases, over-exfoliation is the reason behind recurring skin issues.
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
It depends on your skin type, concerns, and the products you’re using. As a general guide:
Oily or congested skin: 2–3 times per week (with gentle acids)
Dry or sensitive skin: 1–2 times per week (mild, hydrating exfoliants)
Normal or combination skin: 1–3 times per week, depending on your routine
At Platinum Cosmetics, we assess your skin’s condition before recommending any exfoliating skin care products or in-clinic treatments.
Better Ways to Achieve Smooth, Radiant Skin
Rather than relying on daily scrubs, we focus on long-term skin health. Consider:
Facials designed to clear and hydrate without irritation
Skin rejuvenation to improve cellular turnover in a controlled, clinical setting
Fotona laser treatments that support skin renewal without stripping the surface
These treatments target the cause of rough texture — not just the symptoms.
Book a Consultation to Rebalance Your Routine
If your skin feels tight, shiny, or inflamed — but you’re still exfoliating — it might be time to reassess. Book a consultation and let’s create a plan that supports healthy turnover without compromising your barrier.