How to Exfoliate Your Skin Effectively

Exfoliating your skin effectively removes surface buildup to reveal healthier-looking skin. This targeted step improves texture and tone for a refined complexion. If you’re addressing dullness or unevenness, consistent exfoliation makes a real difference. Choose the method that fits your skin, from physical to chemical approaches, and learn how to exfoliate your skin effectively.

For optimal results, incorporate it into a regimen with products that support skin health. Effective exfoliation focuses on precision and consistency, not intensity. Over-exfoliation can lead to sensitivity, so pay attention to your skin’s response. Done right, it supports better absorption and long-term improvements.

Discover dermatologist-inspired skincare at Rodan + Fields to support your exfoliation routine.

What Is Skin Exfoliation?

Skin exfoliation clears away accumulated cells from your skin’s surface layer. Your skin naturally renews itself, but factors like age or environment can slow this down. That’s when targeted exfoliation helps. Physical methods use textures or tools to gently buff the surface. Chemical exfoliation uses acids to break down cell bonds for removal. Select based on your skin’s needs: a physical approach for noticeable buildup, or a chemical one for sensitive skin. Always follow with hydration to maintain balance. Dermatologists recommend starting gradually to protect your skin barrier.

Benefits of Exfoliating Your Skin

Exfoliation improves texture and evens tone for visible clarity. It helps unclog pores, which can help reduce breakouts. Your other skincare absorbs more effectively, enhancing results. Expect improved smoothness and reduced dullness. It supports cell turnover for healthier-looking skin. On the body, it addresses rough areas like elbows. Consistent use can reduce uneven skin tones over time. Keep it moderate to maintain these beauty benefits without disruption.

Types of Exfoliation Methods

Exfoliation options include physical, chemical, and enzymatic. Physical involves particles like microbeads or tools for direct buffing, delivering immediate smoothness but requiring a light touch. Chemical uses AHAs or BHAs in serums or toners to dissolve buildup without abrasion, ideal for deeper concerns. Enzymes, often from natural sources like fruit enzymes, gently break down dead skin cells. Some products blend methods for comprehensive care. For sensitive skin, enzymatic is often the gentlest.

How to Choose the Right Exfoliator for Your Skin Type

Select an exfoliator that aligns with your skin. Dry skin needs hydrating formulas with mild acids like lactic to avoid stripping. Steer clear of coarse particles. Oily skin responds to salicylic acid for pore-clearing. Combination skin may need targeted application: milder on dry areas, stronger on oily zones. Sensitive skin requires fragrance-free, low-concentration options; always patch test. Normal skin tolerates most, but begins simply. Our SOOTHE Regimen provides gentle exfoliation for reactive skin. Review ingredients to avoid potential irritants.

Here’s a quick table to guide frequency by skin type:

Skin Type	Recommended Frequency	Best Method Example
Dry	1-2 times weekly	Hydrating chemicals like lactic acid
Oily	2-3 times weekly	BHA-based toner
Combination	2 times weekly	Mixed physical and chemical
Sensitive	1 time weekly or less	Enzymatic peel
Normal	2-3 times weekly	Gentle scrub

Step-by-Step Guide to Exfoliating at Home

Start with a clean face using a mild cleanser to clear surface debris.
Pat dry, then apply the exfoliator. For physical, massage in small circles with minimal pressure for about 30 seconds, then rinse. For chemical, apply as instructed and allow it to work without scrubbing.
Immediately follow with a serum or moisturizer.

Evening application allows recovery overnight.

For body exfoliation, wet skin in the shower.
Then work from feet upward, focusing on textured areas but avoiding any breaks in the skin.
Finish with a moisturizer to lock in hydration.

Our skincare finder can customize this process further.

How Often Should You Exfoliate?

Tailor frequency to your skin type. Oily skin may handle a few sessions weekly. Dry or sensitive skin benefits from once weekly. Monitor for dryness or irritation; reduce if needed. If you’re new, introduce gradually. Adjust for seasons, easing up in drier months. Our UNBLEMISH Regimen offers controlled exfoliation for acne concerns without overexposure.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Exfoliating

Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can compromise the skin barrier.
Don’t exfoliate daily unless specified.
Always hydrate afterward to prevent dehydration.
Combining multiple activities can heighten sensitivity.
Skipping sunscreen after chemical exfoliation increases vulnerability.
Using outdated products diminishes efficacy.
If in doubt, our resources provide guidance.
Choosing mismatched methods, like abrasive scrubs for sensitive skin, invites issues.
Prioritize gentleness from the start.

Natural vs. Store-Bought Exfoliators

DIY options like sugar mixed with oil provide accessible exfoliation. They’re cost-effective and adjustable. However, professionally formulated products offer consistent potency and safety. Natural mixtures can vary in texture, risking inconsistency. Oatmeal-based ones soothe effectively. Still, dermatologist-inspired formulas can provide more reliability. For tone improvement, opt for our REVERSE Regimen over homemade. Experts emphasize tested products for dependable results. Use both approaches if desired, but rely on the former for precision.

Exfoliating for Specific Skin Concerns

For breakouts, BHAs penetrate pores to remove buildup. Dull skin improves with AHAs for better clarity. Mature skin benefits from retinoids to support renewal. Uneven tones respond to consistent acids. Those with sensitivity should use minimal or avoid. Focus on your primary concern for targeted results.

Aftercare Tips for Exfoliated Skin

Replenish moisture right away to support the barrier. Apply calming elements if needed. Use broad-spectrum SPF every day, as renewed skin is more susceptible. Steer clear of heat sources immediately after. Gently pat dry. Add antioxidants for added environmental defense. Allow recovery time between exfoliations.

Integrating Exfoliation into Your Daily Routine

Position exfoliation after cleansing and before beauty treatments.
Evenings suit recovery best.
Alternate with other steps to avoid overload.
Monitor skin response and adjust.
For body care, schedule weekly.
This approach keeps exfoliation straightforward and results-driven.
Use our skincare finder for a tailored plan.

Myths About Skin Exfoliation Debunked

Exfoliating more doesn’t equal better results; it can weaken the skin’s moisture barrier . Not all skin requires daily sessions. Proper exfoliation doesn’t thin the skin. It benefits oily types by clearing excess. Rely on evidence for consistent skin health.

Rodan + Fields Exfoliating Solutions

REVERSE Deep Exfoliating Cleanser

Reveal your skin’s natural radiance. This brightening salicylic acid cleanser combines powerful exfoliants to visibly refine uneven skin tone and texture, washing away impurities for a refreshed, glowing complexion.

Recommended Use: Twice daily, morning and evening.

Size: 125 mL / 4.2 Fl. Oz.

What It Is

A daily exfoliating cleanser that gently polishes away dull surface cells to reveal brighter, smoother, and more luminous skin.

Why You’ll Love It

Powered by our Proprietary Exfoliant Complex, this formula blends chemical (AHA + BHA) and physical exfoliants for multi-dimensional results.

Glycolic & Lactic Acids (AHAs): Encourage natural cell turnover, helping reduce visible hyperpigmentation and dullness.
Salicylic Acid (BHA): Deeply refines skin texture and promotes a softer, more even appearance.
Physical Exfoliators: Gently lift impurities and smooth with reduced risk of irritation.

Together, these ingredients enhance skin clarity, prepping it for the next steps in the REVERSE Regimen.

Science-Driven Results

Founded by female dermatologists in 2001, our mission has always been results. After 2 years of reformulation, the New REVERSE Regimen features more key ingredients, better performance, and demontrated brightening power.

Consumer Use & Clinical Results (After 8 Weeks)*

Result	Percentage of Users Saw
Less visible dark patches & discoloration	100%
Smoother-feeling skin	100%
More even-looking skin tone	97%
More radiant-looking complexion	94%

*Based on an independent 8-week consumer use and clinical study of the full REVERSE Regimen. Individual Results Will Vary.

Skin Concerns Addressed

Dullness
Uneven tone & texture
Sun damage

Skin Type: All skin types

Key Benefits

Accelerates surface cell turnover
Fades the appearance of discoloration and dark spots
Reveals visibly brighter, more even-toned skin

How to Use

Use morning and night.
For the first week, apply once every other day, then increase to twice daily as tolerated.
Apply to wet skin, gently massage over the face (avoiding the eye area).
Rinse well and pat dry.

⚠ Warning: This product contains Pulegone, a substance known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information, visit p65warnings.ca.gov.

R+F Multi-Acid Enzyme Peel™

This dermatologist-developed peel accelerates exfoliation to remove dead skin cells 5X faster*. It targets texture, tone, and brightness for smoother, more even skin with visible results.

Recommended Usage: 3X a week, in the PM

Size: 30 mL / 1 Fl. Oz

What It Is: A resurfacing serum that addresses uneven tone, boosts brightness, and reduces the appearance of dark spots. It works to exfoliate dead skin cells and visibly fade discoloration for smoother-looking skin. Dermatologist-developed for all skin types, including melanin-rich skin. 100% found it comfortable after use and saw a more even tone after 8 weeks. Individual results will vary.

Why You Need It: Skin cell turnover naturally slows with age and daily factors, impacting the skin’s overall appearance. Issues like uneven skin tones, rough texture, and enlarged pores can emerge early, especially on melanin-rich skin. This gentle peel supports faster exfoliation and reduces dullness for consistent, visible improvements.

Eco-Friendly Packaging: Bottle made with 50% post-consumer recycled material and fully recyclable.***

*Based on ex-vivo study compared to an untreated control after 30 min.

**Based on an 8-week U.S. clinical and consumer study using the R+F Multi-Acid Enzyme Peel 3 nights a week as a leave-on. Results will vary depending on multiple factors: age, gender, skin type and condition, concomitant products used, health history, location, lifestyle and diet.

***Check with your local facilities. This package may not be recyclable in your area.

Item Number: ENPF030

Key Concerns

Uneven Skin Tone + Texture, Dark Spots, Dullness, Large Pores

Skin Type

Normal, dry, oily and combination skin. Not for sensitive skin.

Key Benefits

Exfoliates, resurfaces + visibly fades the look of dark spots for even, smoother skin

Proprietary Technology + Key Ingredients

ProAcid Enzyme Complex™ A blend of multi-acids (glycolic, lactic, salicylic, PHA) + papaya enzyme to support exfoliation
Bakuchiol Visibly brightens tone and supports firmness
Niacinamide Visibly brightens skin, supports moisture barrier, soothes
Licorice Root Essence Soothes for comfortable use

Consumer Use and Clinical Study Results*

removes dead skin cells 5X faster*
100% noticed more even-looking skin tone**
93% noticed more radiant skin**
86% noticed less visible dark spots**
86% agreed skin’s texture feels more polished**
82% noticed smaller-looking pores**

*Based on an 8-week Consumer use and Clinical Study using the R+F Multi-Acid Enzyme Peel 3 nights a week as a leave-on. Individual results will vary depending on multiple factors: age, gender, skin type and condition, concomitant products used, health history, location, lifestyle and diet

How To Apply R+F Peel:

Use 3X a week in the PM. After cleansing and toning, apply as a leave-on treatment, then follow with serum and moisturizer. Use 2-3 pumps on the full face (avoid eye area) + an additional 2-3 pumps on neck and décolletage.

Apply SPF daily in the AM when using this product.

Not recommended for sensitive skin.

As with any product, we recommend patch testing R+F Multi-Acid Enzyme Peel on a small area before full-face use. Patch test prior to combining with other products.

Rodan + Fields Enhancements Micro-Dermabrasion Paste

Meet our top-selling exfoliator. This derm-developed face + body scrub gently removes dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin with visible improvements from the first use.

Recommended Usage: 1-3 times weekly

Size: 125 mL / 4.2 Fl. Oz. U.S.

What It Is: A dual-action sugar and salt scrub for face and body that buffs away dullness and dryness with reduced risk of irritation.

Why You Need It: Regular exfoliation supports cell turnover, bringing healthier-looking skin to the surface for noticeable smoothness and brightness right away.

Item Number: ENPS125

Key Concerns

Dullness, Uneven Skin Tone, Oiliness, Dry and Flaky Skin

Skin Type

Suitable for dry, oily, and combination skin. Not for sensitive skin.

Key Benefits

Exfoliates and hydrates skin

Proprietary Technology + Key Ingredients

Vitamin C

Targets brightness to support healthier-looking skin

Vitamin E & Bisabolol

Soothes skin to improve smoothness and tone

How to Use

Apply 1–3 times per week, avoiding the eye area.

Massage onto dry face or body for 30–60 seconds.
Rinse well and pat dry.
For face: Use instead of your cleanser.
For body: Apply before moisturizer.

For milder exfoliation, start on damp skin and add water gradually to adjust intensity. Not for sensitive skin.

REDEFINE Daily Clay Cleanser

Dermatologist-Developed Cleanser that doubles as a mask, featuring Kaolin Clay to gently exfoliate, purify, and smooth while targeting the look of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, and texture.

Recommended Usage: Apply twice daily, AM and PM, as a cleanser or mask

Size: 125 mL / 4.2 Fl. Oz. U.S.

What It Is: A mild exfoliating cleanser and mask that clears away daily buildup, including makeup, to unclog pores and address visible signs of aging.

If foaming is your preference, explore our alternative cleanser to tailor your Regimen.

Why You Need It: Clear pores look smaller, so an effective cleanser is key to any age-defying routine. It cleans skin to support a fresher, more youthful appearance.

For optimal results, incorporate the complete REDEFINE Regimen.

Item Number: AAWA125

Key Concerns

Fine lines, deep wrinkles, loss of firmness, pore minimization, lifting, sculpting, defining

Skin Type

Suitable for all skin types, ideal for combination-oily

Key Benefits

Gently exfoliates and clears away dirt, oil, and makeup to reveal smoother, more youthful-looking skin

Ingredients

Proprietary Technology + Key Ingredients

Kaolin

Gently exfoliates and cleans to support softer, more even texture

Natural Amino Acid + Sugar Derivatives

Help diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles while enhancing visible firmness

Consumer Use and Clinical Study Results*

94%

had softer, more supple skin*

94%

had smoother-feeling skin*

91%

noticed firmer skin*

85%

had plumper, fuller-looking skin*

*Percent of study participants who noticed an improvement with the Redefine Regiment after 8 weeks of use. Individual results will vary.

How To Use

Apply twice daily, AM and PM, avoiding the eye area.

As A Cleanser:

Wet skin and massage gently across the face.
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.

As A Mask:

Apply to dry skin.
Let dry for 2 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.

REDEFINE AMP MD System

Boost results of the Redefine Regimen up to 3X with our clinically tested AMP MD System*. This dermatologist-developed tool pairs a micro-exfoliating Derma-Roller with our Intensive Renewing Serum to support skin’s natural renewal process at night, helping to visibly firm and smooth texture.

Recommended Usage: Apply 3 times weekly in the evening, or nightly if your skin adjusts well.

What It Is: A compact derma-roller featuring micro-exfoliating tips that gently conditions the skin’s surface to enhance product absorption and efficacy. Comes with the derma-roller, renewing serum, and purification tablets for maintenance.

Why You Need It: Encouraging skin’s renewal can lead to noticeable improvements. This system works together to target firmness and refine texture for healthier-looking skin.

Note: If the Redefine AMP MD System is included in a PC Perks enrollment or added to a PC Perks/CRP shipment, future orders will default to the Redefine AMP MD System Refill. Preferred Customers and Brand Consultants may adjust their shipment anytime prior to processing.

Awards: CEW Award Winner 2019. View Article Here.

Item Number: AAAPS01

Key Concerns

Lines + Wrinkles, Loss of Firmness, Uneven Texture

Key Benefits

Visibly firms + refines uneven texture for smoother, healthier-looking skin

Award Winner

Beauty Award Winner

Ingredients

Proprietary Technology + Key Ingredients

Peptides

Help reduce the look of fine lines + wrinkles

Retinal-Md Technology

Supports reduction in the appearance of fine lines + wrinkles for skin that looks healthier

Calcium Buffering System

US Consumer Use and Clinical Study Results*

Boosts Regimen efficacy by up to 3X

*Based on an 8-week consumer and clinical study. Participants experienced three times better visible wrinkles when using Redefine Regimen with AMP MD System versus those using Refine Regimen alone. Individual results will vary depending on multiple factors: age, gender, skin type and condition, concomitant products used, health history, location, lifestyle and diet.

How To Use

Apply to face and/or neck 3 times weekly, steering clear of the eye area. Build up to nightly use as skin allows.

Step 1: Derma-Roller

AMP MD Derma-Roller

Follow Step 1 of Recharge Regimen or Step 2 of Redefine or Reverse Regimen. Not advised for Unblemish or Soothe Regimens.

Roll gently 4–10 times per section, varying directions (up/down, side-to-side, diagonal). Divide face into zones (forehead, left cheek, right cheek, chin, neck) and limit total time to one minute.
Rinse under warm water post-use. Clean deeply twice weekly with AMP MD Purification Tablets, one per session.

Step 2: Serum

Redefine Intensive Renewing Serum