If you are suffering from dry and bump skin, it might be time to shake up your skincare routine. Over the years, I periodically inject resurfacing products into my routine to allow my skin to turnover, ultimately leaving me with more healthy, glowy skin. Essentially, resurfacing products have specific formulas that work to remove the topmost layers of your skin. These upper layers of your face could be damaged from external factors such as extreme weather conditions or environmental pollutants. If this sounds like something that resonates with your current condition, it may behoove you to try out some of these resurfacing products to promote that healthy skin turnover. The below products will work diligently to reduce pore size, improve skin texture, and so forth. So if you are ready for a refresh, let’s jump into these resurfacing skin care products I cannot live without.
I Swear By These Resurfacing Skin Care Products
Mechanical vs. Chemical Exfoliants
To kick off our journey of resurfacing skin care products, it is important to set a foundation of basic knowledge starting with the difference between mechanical and chemical exfoliants. The first is any product that utilizes a hard substance to exfoliate the dead skin from your face (think scrubs infused with microbeads). The second type is chemical and this uses an acid or enzyme to help resurface the skin. So which should you use? Here’s a breakdown of the various skin types along with the recommended type of exfoliant (source: forhers).
- Acne-Prone Skin — Chemical (BHA and exfoliate no more than once a week)
- Dry Skin — Mechanical or chemical (AHAs and BHA along with tiny granules like jojoba beads)
- Oily Skin — Chemical (AHA or BHA and moisturize after exfoliating to avoid drying out your skin)
- Combination Skin — Mechanical and chemical (glycolic and salicylic acids that also contains exfoliating beads)
- Sensitive Skin — Chemical (natural enzymes like a fruit enzyme peel or one that contains lactic acid)
- Aging Skin — Chemical (glycolic acid)
- Healthy Skin — Chemical or mechanical (feel free to experiment)
It is important to note that either of the exfoliants will put your skin in a more vulnerable state so always be sure to wear sunscreen on a daily basis!
Resurfacing Skin Care Masks
Depending on how sensitive your skin is, incorporating a few nights to do a mask will do wonders for your tired, dull skin. After cleansing, just throw on one of the below masks for 10-15 minutes, sit, back, relax and let the product do its’ thing. After consistent use, you will definitely notice a difference in your skin. Personally, I want to recommend this Versed mask which is a resurfacing tripe threat. It contains AHA, BHA, and enzymes so you can achieve brighter, smoother skin.
Serums & Toners to Resurface the Skin
For those who want to resurface the skin on a daily basis, try out a serum or a toner. A little bit can go a long way with these products. As always, be sure to double check the ingredients of the below products and refer to the list above to see if it will be an ideal match for your specific skin type. If you find you are more prone to breakouts and acne scarring, Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment is a miracle product that works to fill and blur any damage on the surface of your skin.
Nighttime Resurfacing Skin Care Products
As I mentioned above, the process of resurfacing your skin can cause your face to be more sensitive and vulnerable – especially to the harsh sun rays. So for those who want to avoid damage at all costs, it may be smart to incorporate these resurfacing skin care products into your nighttime routine. From nightly creams to powerful serums, there is something out there for everyone.
Best Mechanical Exfoliators
For those who are looking for a mechanical exfoliator, I did not forget you. I rounded up some of the best resurfacing scrubs here for you to shop and test. For those with oily, acne-prone skin, I recommend trying out this Dermalogica rice-based powder that helps to soothe and clear out pores. Other honorable mentions include the Ola Hendrickson Lemonade Scrub which combines the power of both mechanical and chemical exfoliants and the Fresh Sugar Face Polish.
