On the face, between 1 and 3 times a week, depending on the product: a gentle scrub for regular use, such as our Illuminating Facial Scrub, can be used 2 to 3 times, while a more intense one, like our AHA Illuminating Exfoliating Mask, should be used 1 to 2 times. Never daily and never on irritated skin. For the body, the rule is similar: a few times a week, gently, and followed immediately by hydration.
What an exfoliator does
The outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, is made of cells that have finished their cycle and shed on their own, little by little, while new ones form underneath. When this renewal is delayed, dead cells accumulate, and the skin looks dull and feels rough. An exfoliator removes them: scrubs do so through friction; AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) do so by loosening the bonds between these cells.
The risk lies in the frequency. The stratum corneum is also the barrier that retains water and keeps out external factors. If you wear it down faster than the skin can replenish it, the skin will respond with tightness, redness, or sensitivity.
For the face, the product dictates the routine
Each facial exfoliator is formulated for a different frequency, and it is best to respect it.
The Illuminating Facial Scrub by Bright Botanical is for regular use: creamy texture, for all skin types, 2 to 3 times a week, in the morning or evening. Apply to a damp face, massage gently, and rinse. In a satisfaction study with 50 people, after 1 week of use, skin was reported to be clean and soft without irritation.
The Illuminating Exfoliating Mask works more deeply. It combines nasturtium with an AHA complex known for its exfoliating properties; it is used 1 or 2 times a week, left on for 10 minutes, and removed with a damp cotton pad. While using it, we advise limiting sun exposure and using sunscreen.
A third case is the Pore-Cleansing Charcoal Mask, for combination to oily skin with blemishes, also 1 or 2 times a week. Count this as part of your weekly exfoliation and do not combine it with another exfoliator on the same day. All of these can be found in facial care.
How to adjust the frequency to your skin
Combination to oily skin produces more sebum and usually tolerates the higher number indicated by the product. Dry skin or skin that reddens easily has a more fragile barrier: stick to the minimum or space it out more, and if you wake up with tight or irritated skin, do not exfoliate that day. We explain this in how to build a gentle routine.
In cold weather, skin already loses water due to wind and dry air, so exfoliate in moderation and boost hydration. More in caring for skin in cold mountain climates.
Sunscreen, without exception
Freshly exfoliated skin has a thinner stratum corneum and is more exposed to radiation. With products containing AHAs, like the mask mentioned above, we recommend not going out without sunscreen. Use it every day regardless; we can help you choose one in sunscreen in Colombia.
For the body, with the same moderation
The skin on the body is thicker than on the face, but the principle remains the same. Our body scrubs do not set a specific number of times per week, so the criteria is set by your skin: if it remains soft and comfortable, you are doing well; if it is red or tight, space them out more. Daily, never.
The Nourishing Body Scrub is a melting cream with grains, made with organic shea butter and shea shells, for all skin types. It should not be applied to the face or on irritated skin, and it must be rinsed off well. In a satisfaction study on 24 subjects, 91% stated it refines skin texture.
The Coconut Body Scrub is sulfate-free, with 98% ingredients of natural origin and a vegan formula. In our usage test, 100% of people stated that it exfoliates without damaging the skin.
For feet, where skin thickens due to friction and weight, the Foot Exfoliating Gel, with organic mint and organic mallow, reduces roughness and leaves them ready for their nourishing cream.
After exfoliating, apply a body cream or milk while the skin is still slightly damp: the water remaining on the surface is better retained under the layer of cream. Find exfoliants and creams in body care, and foot care in hands and feet.
Signs you are over-exfoliating
- Tightness right after washing.
- Burning or redness with your usual products.
- Skin that looks shiny but feels rough or sensitive.
That shine is not luminosity: it is a thinned surface. Suspend exfoliation for one or two weeks, cleanse gently, and moisturize. If the irritation does not subside, consult a dermatologist.
How to do it right
- Exfoliate on damp skin, using gentle movements without pressing.
- Avoid the eye contour: we recommend this for all our facial exfoliators.
- Rinse well.
- Hydrate immediately after.
- Do not use two exfoliating products on the same day.
Frequently asked questions
Can I exfoliate my face every day?
No. Our facial exfoliators are used between 1 and 3 times a week, depending on the product. Exfoliating daily strips the skin of part of its natural protection.
Is it better to exfoliate in the morning or at night?
It depends on the product. The Illuminating Facial Scrub can be used in the morning or at night. What doesn't change is the need for sunscreen in the morning, especially if you use products with AHAs.
Can I use the body scrub on my face?
No. The Nourishing Body Scrub is not for the face. For the face, use a facial exfoliator.
What should I do if my skin gets irritated after exfoliating?
Suspend exfoliation, cleanse gently, and hydrate. Resume only when the skin is calm and with less frequency.
