When Should You Exfoliate: Before or After Skincare?

When I first began to explore the world of skincare, I remember feeling utterly confused about when to use exfoliants. Should I apply them before moisturizer? After? It felt like a mystery wrapped in a tube of glycolic acid. But over time, with knowledge and experience, I came to understand the importance of sequence — and how it can completely transform your skincare results. Let’s unravel this together.

The Basics of Exfoliation

Exfoliating isn’t just a trend — it’s a vital step that helps your skin renew itself, shed dead cells, and better absorb the products you apply. I get asked about exfoliation a lot, and here’s what I always say:

• Physical exfoliation uses scrubs or textured tools to manually remove dead skin cells.
• Chemical exfoliation relies on acids or enzymes to gently dissolve those cells, leaving behind a smoother, fresher complexion.

Depending on your skin type, one method may be better than the other. Oily skin often responds well to salicylic acid, while sensitive skin benefits from gentle enzyme-based exfoliants.

Do I Exfoliate Before or After Skincare?

The answer may seem simple, but it often causes confusion. Here’s the rule I follow — and recommend to my clients:

Always exfoliate after cleansing, but before applying serums and moisturizers.

Here’s why:

• Start with a clean canvas. Cleansing removes dirt, makeup, and excess oil — allowing your exfoliant to work more effectively.
• Maximize absorption. Once dead cells are cleared away, your skin can better absorb serums, oils, and creams.
• Support the skin barrier. After exfoliation, moisturizers help restore hydration and strengthen the skin’s natural defenses.

How Often Should You Exfoliate?

It all depends on your skin type. Here’s what I typically suggest:

• Oily or combination skin: 2–3 times a week using salicylic acid or a mild scrub.
• Dry or sensitive skin: 1–2 times a week with gentler options like lactic acid or enzyme exfoliants.
• Normal skin: 2–3 times a week, alternating between physical and chemical exfoliants.

Morning or Evening: When’s the Best Time to Exfoliate?

Time of day does matter — here’s what I’ve learned through personal experience:

• Morning exfoliation gives you a fresh start and a natural glow. But remember: always apply sunscreen afterward, since your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays.
• Evening exfoliation allows your skin to recover overnight. Chemical exfoliants, in particular, work beautifully during your body’s natural repair cycle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-exfoliating can lead to redness, sensitivity, and damage to your skin barrier. Be gentle and consistent — not aggressive.
• Skipping sunscreen after exfoliating, especially in the morning, leaves your skin vulnerable. Always protect it.
• Using harsh scrubs with large, jagged particles can scratch or tear the skin. Choose products with smooth, fine textures.

Why Timing and Technique Matter

Getting exfoliation right can gift your skin with:

• A radiant, healthy glow
• Better absorption of active ingredients
• Fewer breakouts and visibly smaller pores

Final Thoughts

So — when should you exfoliate? My advice: always after cleansing, and before applying your serums and creams. Choose the right product for your skin type, listen to your skin’s signals, and never forget your SPF. When done right, exfoliation is your secret weapon for glowing, smooth, and beautifully refreshed skin. And once it becomes a part of your ritual, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.