If you’re a skincare enthusiast like us, you already know the many benefits of exfoliation for the skin. Apart from sloughing away dead skin cells, it also unclogs pores, brightens skin and prevents breakouts, making it an important step in every skincare routine.
But to reap all the amazing benefits of exfoliation without damaging your skin in the process, it’s important to do it right. Don’t know what the right way to exfoliate is? We’ve got you covered. Scroll down for six important tips to keep in mind when exfoliating your skin at home.
- 01. Pick the right product
- 02. Read and follow the instructions
- 03. Exfoliate in the shower
- 04. Exfoliate in the morning
- 05. Use the right amount of pressure
- 06. Moisturise without fail
01. Pick the right product

When using a face scrub, make sure to pick one that’s suitable for your skin type and concerns. We urge you to check out the St. Ives face scrubs for this. Available in four different variants, it would be no exaggeration to say that this range has something for everyone. But we particularly love the St. Ives Energizing Coconut & Coffee Scrub every time our skin in need of a good exfoliation. The coffee beans in this scrub provide a deep cleanse, while coconut extracts moisturise the skin, leaving it super soft and supple.
02. Read and follow the instructions

How often do you get a new product and take some time out to read the labels? Maybe sometimes. But how many times do you end up following the instructions mentioned on the label? Probably, never. Well, spending a couple of minutes reading the label can benefit your skin to an extent. All products are made differently and should be used as per the instructions provided on the label/packaging. And not following the instructions usually does more harm than good — so better follow them.
03. Exfoliate in the shower

Have you ever tried exfoliating in the shower? If your answer is ‘no’, we urge you to do so asap. The warm water and steam from the shower help in opening up your pores, softening the skin and releasing the natural oils. This is what helps the scrub penetrate better and gently slough off dead skin cells. Make sure to allow the warm water to run down your face for 1-2 minutes before starting.
04. Exfoliate in the morning

#UnpopularOpinion, but experts suggest that it would be better to exfoliate in the morning instead of in the night. Although the benefits of using a face scrub are pretty much the same no matter what time of the day you use it, exfoliating in the morning just makes it a teeny-weeny bit more effective. How? Since the skin heals and repairs itself in the night, there is a layer of dead skin cell that’s just sitting on your face. Gross, but true! So when you exfoliate in the morning, it reduces the chances of dead skin cells getting trapped in your pores and breakouts.
05. Use the right amount of pressure

While it is extremely important to be gentle when using an exfoliator, it’s important to put the right pressure to see visible results. Make sure to massage the scrub in a gentle circular motion while slightly pushing the product against your skin. This will help in removing the dead skin cells effectively without damaging or irritating your skin.
06. Moisturise without fail

No matter how moisturising your scrub says it is or how oily your skin is, the mere act of exfoliation is always a little bit drying for your skin. That’s why it’s important to use a moisturiser quickly after exfoliating. After rinsing your face, make sure to pat it dry using a clean face towel. Next, spritz on a hydrating toner to balance your skin’s pH level and follow it up with a nourishing, non-greasy moisturiser like the Lakme Absolute Argan Oil Radiance Oil-in-Creme SPF 30 PA ++. It’s enriched with Moroccan argan oil, known for its antioxidant properties, which help nourish and revitalise the skin. Plus, the built-in SPF protects the skin from sun damage.
Written by Urvi Dalal on 22nd Jun 2021
Writer, avid reader and hardcore beauty enthusiast is the best way to describe Urvi Dalal. With over 5 years of writing experience in the beauty industry, you can trust her to have the latest skin, hair and makeup tidbits on her fingertips. In her time working as a beauty writer, she has had the opportunity to interact and work closely with a string of dermatologists, makeup artists and hairstylists. All that knowledge exchange, coupled with her flair and love for writing make it possible for her to bring you some authentic yet fun beauty content. When Urvi isn’t working, you’d usually catch her curled up with a big, fat book, drinking a cup of tea or practising her makeup skills; there is no in-between!