exfoliate before or after washing face

exfoliate before or after washing face

The Case for Exfoliating Before Washing Your Face

There are some compelling reasons to exfoliate before washing your face. Exfoliating first allows the exfoliant to come into direct contact with the skin, without any barriers like dirt, oil, or makeup interfering with the process. This can help the exfoliant penetrate more deeply and effectively remove dead skin cells.

Additionally, exfoliating before washing your face can help to prep the skin for the rest of your skincare routine. By removing dead skin cells and other impurities first, your cleanser and other products can work more effectively, leading to better overall results.

The Case for Exfoliating After Washing Your Face

On the other hand, there are also arguments for exfoliating after washing your face. By washing your face first, you can remove any surface dirt, oil, and makeup, making it easier for the exfoliant to do its job. This can prevent the exfoliant from getting bogged down by debris on the surface of the skin.

Exfoliating after washing your face can also help to prevent overexfoliation. If you exfoliate first, then cleanse, and then potentially use other active ingredients like serums or treatments, you could be layering too many potent products on your skin, leading to irritation or sensitivity. By exfoliating after washing your face, you can ensure that your skin is prepped and ready for the exfoliant, without overwhelming it with too many products at once.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Order of Exfoliation

In the end, the best order of exfoliation will depend on your individual skin type, concerns, and preferences. Some people may find that exfoliating before washing their face works best for them, while others may prefer to exfoliate after washing. The key is to pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust your routine accordingly.

If you’re unsure which order is best for you, try experimenting with both methods and see which one gives you the best results. Remember to listen to your skin and make adjustments as needed. Ultimately, the most important thing is to exfoliate regularly and effectively, no matter the order in which you choose to do it.

By finding the perfect order of exfoliation for your skin, you can ensure that you’re getting the most out of this important step in your skincare routine. So whether you exfoliate before or after washing your face, just remember to keep up with it consistently for glowing, healthy skin.