We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Why trust us?

Dermatologists and skincare experts explain the best way to exfoliate sensitive skin, oily skin and beyond.

You can get smoother and brighter skin in one step. How? Exfoliating! The key to a vibrant complexion at any age, exfoliation is crucial for speeding up skin cell turnover, which slows over time.

The process removes skin’s outer layer of dead cells so its surface is smoother and clearer and reflects light, which makes it appear luminous. Any skin type, from oily and acne-prone to dry and sensitive can (and should) exfoliate, yet a GH survey revealed that nearly half of women skip it in their skincare routine.

Exfoliation is any technique that removes dead skin cells. The method can be either mechanical or chemical: It can be as simple as using a washcloth to cleanse your face (mechanical), or using face scrubs, microdermabrasion, face peels and anti-aging products that include ingredients like acids or enzymes (chemical).

You can exfoliate your skin at home using pre-made skincare products or tools or visit a skincare professional like a dermatologist or aesthetician for more intensive exfoliating treatments. "Professional exfoliating treatments like peels and microdermabrasion are generally stronger,” says Roberta Del Campo, M.D., a dermatologist in Miami, so they can produce more noticeable results faster.

There are three key types of exfoliation, each with different functions that work best for different skin types, concerns and needs. The quick breakdown:

You can exfoliate your skin using three types of methods, which involve different mechanisms, frequency of use and application and work best for specific skin types. Here's how to choose the right method for you:

There is such a thing as too much exfoliation! Here are usage tips for each type of exfoliation:

When using any exfoliator (at any time of year), sun protection is a must, since removing the top layer of dead skin cells makes the skin underneath more prone to sun damage, Wizemann says. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher face sunscreen every morning.

Yes, you can. Some may be interested in exfoliating their skin naturally using homemade DIY treatments made with ingredients many have on hand in their homes, such as sugar and baking soda. These are generally safe to use on skin, but when trying home remedies, GH Beauty Lab experts recommend first doing a patch test of the formula on a small, hidden area of the face (such as along your jawline) to check for any adverse reaction before using it on the rest of the face and applying it using a light touch and for a short period of time to start.

Here's what to know before you glow to avoid angry (and damaged) skin when exfoliating:

Skip exfoliating at home after professional treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion, when skin is sunburned and during eczema or rosacea flareups. On days you exfoliate, skip skincare products made with ingredients that can sensitize skin, such as retinol, vitamin C and other products containing acids (like cleansers, toners, masks, serums and moisturizers), Dr. Del Campo advises.

It’s also generally best to incorporate one type of exfoliator at a time into your routine to avoid skin irritation and damage, the GH Beauty Lab recommends, so if you’re trying a face peel one week, don’t also use a face scrub or a cleansing brush. Stop exfoliating when you notice any kind of irritation, including redness or a rash.