Exfoliants remove dead cells from the skin's surface either chemically (e.g., AHAs, BHAs, enzymes) or physically (scrubs), promoting cell turnover and improving texture and tone. They are commonly used to address dullness, uneven texture, clogged pores, and signs of photoaging.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Skin irritation, redness, or stinging | Common | Often dose- and frequency-dependent; more pronounced with higher acid concentrations or overuse. |
Dryness and flaking | Common | Result of accelerated cell turnover; usually transient. |
Increased photosensitivity | Common | Particularly with AHAs; daily sunscreen use is advised. |
Burning or contact dermatitis | Uncommon | More likely with sensitive skin or compromised skin barrier. |
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation | Uncommon | Higher risk in darker skin tones, especially with aggressive exfoliation. |
Chemical burns or blistering | Rare | Associated with high-concentration peels or prolonged contact times. |
Scarring | Very rare | Typically linked to improper use of strong peels or picking at treated skin. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.