11 September 2025
Exfoliation Guide
Can’t talk about skincare without talking about exfoliation! Face scrubs and peels are suitable for every skin type and offer some amazing beauty benefits that boost the effectiveness of your entire skincare routine. Read on to learn all about them!
This is what we will be exploring in this article:
Why Should You Exfoliate Your Face?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin, which accelerates the natural process of skin renewal and reveals healthy-looking, more radiant skin. It’s beneficial not just for acne-prone and dry skin. Exfoliating can also help to improve the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots. Even sensitive skin types should exfoliate regularly to get rid of any dry and dead skin build-up.
EXFOLIATION BENEFITS
- Gentle removal of dead skin cells
- Unclogs pores
- Smoother skin
- Even-toned complexion
- Pore-refining effect
- Helps reduce hyperpigmentation and scars
- Stimulates blood flow
- Enhances absorption of your skincare products
Different Types of Exfoliants
There are so many different ways to exfoliate, it can sometimes be difficult to find the right type of exfoliator for your skin. From DIY coffee scrubs to anti-aging facial peels, the choices seem endless. Let’s shed some light on the darkness, shall we?
1. Enzyme exfoliants
Other than traditional face scrubs, enzyme exfoliators do not contain any microbeads or grains to manually remove dead cells. They exfoliate the skin by using enzymes (mostly derived from papaya) to break down the proteins and lipids attached to dead skin, so it can be removed easily. These kinds of exfoliants are suitable for all skin types, even for sensitive skin and skin prone to couperose.
2. Physical exfoliants
Physical exfoliators contain tiny, rounded abrasives to exfoliate the skin. Gently massaging the scrub on your face or body in circular motions will also stimulate blood flow and leaves dry skin silky and soft. They also help to unclog pores, making them especially useful for blemish-prone skin.
3. Chemical peels
You’ve probably heard of chemical exfoliation before. Facial peels with AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic and lactic acids) are among the most popular and most commonly used chemical exfoliators, along with BHA peels (beta hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid) and PHA exfoliators (polyhydroxy acids). Chemical peels have a much deeper effect than other kinds of peels and they can help with a wide variety of skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, pimple marks, blackheads, acne-prone skin and wrinkles. You can use them both on the face and on other problem areas on the rest of your body.
1. Enzyme exfoliants
Other than traditional face scrubs, enzyme exfoliators do not contain any microbeads or grains to manually remove dead cells. They exfoliate the skin by using enzymes (mostly derived from papaya) to break down the proteins and lipids attached to dead skin, so it can be removed easily. These kinds of exfoliants are suitable for all skin types, even for sensitive skin and skin prone to couperose.
2. Physical exfoliants
Physical exfoliators contain tiny, rounded abrasives to exfoliate the skin. Gently massaging the scrub on your face or body in circular motions will also stimulate blood flow and leaves dry skin silky and soft. They also help to unclog pores, making them especially useful for blemish-prone skin.
3. Chemical peels
You’ve probably heard of chemical exfoliation before. Facial peels with AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic and lactic acids) are among the most popular and most commonly used chemical exfoliators, along with BHA peels (beta hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid) and PHA exfoliators (polyhydroxy acids). Chemical peels have a much deeper effect than other kinds of peels and they can help with a wide variety of skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, pimple marks, blackheads, acne-prone skin and wrinkles. You can use them both on the face and on other problem areas on the rest of your body.
How to Use Exfoliants the Right Way
Naturally, the best way to apply an exfoliant depends on the type of peel and the specific product. Still, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
Exfoliation doesn’t replace cleansing: Always apply the product to clean skin.
Regular exfoliation: Use your exfoliant once or twice a week, following the instructions, and leave it on for the recommended time. Chemical exfoliants are best used in the evening.
For rinse-off products – exfoliants that you wash off after use: Always remove any residue with lukewarm water and follow up with a toner suited for your skin type. This gives your skin an extra cleanse and helps replenish essential minerals.
Sun protection after chemical peels: Chemical peels are powerful treatments that deliver fast and lasting results. Since they make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, always apply a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 the next day. Pro tip: Chemical exfoliants are especially suited for the fall and winter months, when the sun is less intense — the perfect time for a visible glow-up.
DALTON Exfoliators for All Skin Types
Not sure which product is best for your skin? Here is all the info you need to make that choice.
Face Scrubs & Peels
COMFORT CLEAN Exfoliating Scrub
Gentle cream exfoliator
✓ Fine, rounded silica beads
✓ Nourishing, creamy texture
✓ Stimulates blood flow
Who is this for? Alll skin types, especially dry skin.
COMFORT CLEAN Enzyme Peel
Gentle exfoliating powder
✓ With papaya enzymes
✓ Without physical exfoliating particles
✓ No rubbing or scrubbing
Who is this for? Ideal for sensitive skin.
4% AHA EXFOLIATING PADS
Gentle AHA pads for daily use
✓ Helps to clean skin down to the pores
✓ Improves skin texture
✓ Natural glow
Who is this for? Suitable for all skin types
20% AHA EXFOLIANT
Lightweight serum with glycolic acid and lactic acid
✓ Improves skin texture
✓ Reduces dark spots, pimple marks and fine wrinkles
✓ Stimulates collagen and hyaluronic acid production
Who is this for? Mature, dry skin
2% BHA EXFOLIANT
Anti-inflammatory exfoliant with salicylic acid
✓ Clears clogged pores
✓ Prevents blemishes
✓ Helps treat keratinization disorders
Who is this for? Oily, blemish-prone and acne-prone skin
12% PHA EXFOLIANT
Exfoliating gel to strengthen the skin barrier
✓ Promotes skin regeneration
✓ Boosts ceramide production
✓ Soothes sensitive skin
Who is this for? Sensitive skin prone to redness and couperose
Body Scrub
Don’t stop at your face — your body enjoys the benefits of regular exfoliation too.
BODY CARE Ginger – Sea Salt Body Scrub
Refreshing Body Scrub
✓ With nourishing oils
✓ Boosts blood flow
✓ Refines skin texture
Who is this for? Suitable for all skin types. Quick remedy for rough elbows.
Exfoliation FAQ - Your top questions answered
How often should I exfoliate?
Should you exfoliate before or after shaving?
Can I use a body scrub on my face?
How to care for my skin after exfoliating?
What is the most powerful method of exfoliation?
For the most intense results, we recommend booking a treatment at your local beauty salon or aesthetician’s office. A consultation with your aesthetician can help you choose which treatment method is best for you. Microdermabrasion, Aqua Facial or a professional chemical peel are all great options for improving your skin.
Beauty editor
SIMILAR POSTS
You Might Also Like
