Winter Skin: To Exfoliate or Not

Many of my clients come to me with this question, “Should I be exfoliating during the dry, cold, winter months and if so, how much is too much?” If your on the fence about this question, my advice to you is YES. But, too much exfoliation can do more harm than good. Everything in moderation, right? If you exfoliate too often, as in everyday or a few times a week, your skin will become irritated, more dry (Or oily) and cause you breakouts, imbalanced skin, acne, uneven texture, etc.

“So why do I need to exfoliate?” Exfoliation rejuvenates the skin. During the winter, it’s cold and dry, your skin will most likely become dull. You want to exfoliate the dead skin cells off your face, but you must use a good facial moisturizer suitable for your skin type. If your not sure of your skin type, I recommend seeking a professional esthetician or dermatologist.

“How much do you exfoliate?” Personally, I have combination skin that tends to be a bit sensitive. Sundays are my self care days, I typically use an exfoliator 1x every other Sunday depending on how my skin is feeling. Typically, 2-3x a month. For me, less is more.

I’m grateful that in my field of work, I get to work with excellent brands and companies, and get to test and try products all the time. More recently, I have been working on shoots with Philosophy. I’m sure you’ve seen their products in Sephora or Ulta, on QVC, or may even use their products yourself. (They have some great products coming to stores March 2017, so be on the look out. I approve!) I recently did a shoot using their Microdelivery Peel. When working with our models, I noticed their skin looked fresh and glow-y afterwards. But does it really work? I was lucky enough to be able to take one home for myself to try.

Philosophy's Microdelivery Peel is an at-home version of medical microdermabrasion. It is made to smooth and resurface rough texture, minimize fine lines, and brighten/even out skin tones. It is a 2 step system containing Vitamin C/Peptide & a lactic/salicylic acid activating gel. The product has a consistency of a microdermabrasion scrub. The activating gel is a thick consistency that is fragrance-free (Which is a MUST in my skin care items).

This is a very gentle scrub/peel. It’s a great product to use for an “At home rejuvenating facial in under 5 minutes.” I was pleasantly surprised after using this product. I did notice a great afterglow and improvement in my skin after using this. I will continue to use this product 2-3x a month avoiding around my eyes. A+.

Philosophy’s Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash is another great product for battling winter skin. It is an exfoliating cleanser that is gentle on the skin. Since I suffer from sensitive skin, I choose to use it at night only 2-3x a week, although it is said it’s gentle enough to use everyday. I LOVE that it is fragrance free and not heavily-scented. It also did not dry out my skin. Remember, a little bit of product goes a long way, so this will last you.

Overall, I am loving these goodies. Thank you Philosophy, and I can’t wait to share with my clients the work we have been creating! Skin IS IN!

Alexandria’s Expert Tips:

-If you have super sensitive skin or rosacea, I would ask your dermatologist or skin care professional before purchasing any peels/deep exfoliators.

-Make sure to have a great moisturizer to apply right after cleansing/exfoliating (Get a fragrance free product, most moisturizers are loaded with irritants and fragrances)

-Avoid direct sunlight after using any peel/exfoliant

-Always drink a lot of water and stay hydrated