You’ve probably heard that exfoliation is essential for smoother, brighter skin. But with so many products—scrubs, acids, gels, peels—sometimes it can feel more confusing than clarifying. Whether you’re already a fan of ISDIN’s science-backed skin care or looking to upgrade your routine, today the experts from the Barcelona-born brand are sharing how to exfoliate your skin the right way.

Let’s get started.

• Why exfoliation matters
• The difference between physical and chemical exfoliants
• Top ISDIN exfoliants to try
• How to build an exfoliation routine
• Tips to exfoliate gently

Why exfoliation matters

Our skin naturally renews itself every few weeks, but that process slows down with age. When dead skin lingers, it can make your complexion look dull, rough or uneven. Exfoliating helps speed up this turnover, promoting a brighter, smoother appearance while also helping your other skin care products work more effectively.

Benefits of exfoliation include:

● Refining uneven texture

● Minimizing the look of pores

● Smoothing fine lines and post-blemish marks

● Supporting a healthy skin barrier

The difference between physical and chemical exfoliants

Physical exfoliants manually slough away dead skin using small particles or tools, such as scrubs, microdermabrasion tools and cleansing brushes. They can offer an immediate smoothing effect, but may be too harsh if overused or if they aren’t the right fit for your skin.

Chemical exfoliants use ingredients like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) to dissolve dead skin cells on the surface. Glycolic and lactic acids are popular AHAs, while salicylic acid is the most well-known BHA. They all penetrate deeply enough to produce long-term results, such as brightening and fading texture or discoloration.

The good news is that you can combine both types of exfoliants to suit your specific needs. Each offers specific benefits when used in gentle formats.

Top ISDIN exfoliants to try

A daily cleanser with a polishing finish

ISDIN Isdinceutics Essential Scrub Exfoliating Cleanser is a water-based cleanser formulated for daily use. It exfoliates using natural Mediterranean olive seed particles while soothing skin with botanical extracts like lavender and clary sage. It’s a two-in-one pick that both cleanses and smooths—perfect for those who want a gentle polishing effect.

Best for:

● Everyday use

● Prepping skin for serums or makeup

● Minimizing the look of pores

● Supporting a double cleansing routine

Targeted chemical exfoliants for specific skin types

Glycolic acid is a gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that works by loosening and lifting away dead skin, revealing a smoother, brighter surface underneath. Its strength lies in its flexibility—whether you're looking for a mild, daily boost or more intensive resurfacing, there's a formula that fits.

Ideal for dry skin, ISDIN Isdinceutics Glicoisdin 8 Soft Hydrating Exfoliating Peeling Cream exfoliates gently while hydrating with ceramides and borage oil.

A great pick for oily or acne-prone skin, ISDIN Isdinceutics Glicoisdin 15 Moderate Spot Unifying Exfoliating Peeling Gel helps unify tone and refine texture.

Finally, ISDIN Isdinceutics Glicoisdin 25 Intense Dark Spot Exfoliating Peeling Gel is a potent option formulated to address dark spots and uneven tone that also contains aloe vera to help calm skin.

How to build an exfoliation routine

Step 1: Start with a gentle cleanse. If using a physical exfoliant like ISDIN Essential Scrub, gently massage onto wet skin, avoiding the eye area, and rinse thoroughly.

Step 2: Apply eye cream first. Protect this delicate area by applying your eye treatment before exfoliating the rest of your face.

Step 3: Use your chemical exfoliant. Apply a thin layer of your chosen Glicoisdin product at night. Let it absorb before layering additional products.

Step 4: Moisturize. Follow with a hydrating cream to lock in moisture and calm skin post-exfoliation.

Step 5: Remember sunscreen the next day. Exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity, so opt for a broad-spectrum SPF.

Tips to exfoliate gently

● Try starting with two to three times per week, and increase gradually as tolerated.

● It’s always a good idea to check with your dermatologist before combining multiple chemical exfoliants in one routine.

● It’s recommended to patch test new products, especially chemical exfoliants.

● Avoid exfoliating irritated or broken skin.

Your path to smoother skin starts here

Your journey to healthy, radiant skin starts with the right products. Discover the full range of ISDIN skin care and build an expert routine tailored to your needs. Explore science-backed skin care solutions today and experience the difference that regular exfoliation and consistent care can make.

Do you need to wear sunscreen in winter? Discover the five reasons you should with ISDIN on the LovelySkin Blog.