AskDerm: How can I tell if I’m over exfoliating my oily skin?
my skin can get so oily during the summer, more than it ever does in any other season and I’ve been trying to control it for the past 2-3 years (when it started happening).
I was scrolling through Tik Tok and lemon8 and a few people in the comments of other videos mentioned it could be from over exfoliating, so it got me thinking to ask if this is true - how can I tell? and what can I do to prevent it?
#askderm #oilyskin #skincareinsider #skincareforbeginners #lemon8beauty
As someone who's struggled with oily skin, especially during the summer months, I've found that over-exfoliating can actually worsen oiliness rather than improve it. When you exfoliate too often or use harsh products, your skin's natural barrier gets compromised. This causes your skin to produce even more oil to protect itself, leading to that shiny, greasy feeling. From personal experience, a good way to tell if you're over-exfoliating is if your skin feels tight, looks red, or starts flaking. You may also notice sensitivity or breakouts where your skin is irritated. Instead of exfoliating daily, try to limit it to 2-3 times per week, using gentle exfoliants like those containing salicylic acid or mild enzymes. Avoid physical scrubs with rough particles that can cause micro-tears. Another helpful tip is to adjust your skincare routine seasonally. Since summer triggers more oil production, focus on lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens. Also, always moisturize even if your skin feels oily—this helps regulate sebum production. For prevention, be mindful of your skin's reaction after exfoliation and listen to what it needs. If you notice signs mentioned earlier, cut back on exfoliation and incorporate soothing ingredients like niacinamide and aloe vera to help repair your skin barrier. It's a learning process, but with a balanced approach, you can control oily skin better and avoid the cycle of over-exfoliating. Sharing what I've learned has really helped me maintain clearer, healthier skin through the summers and beyond.