FAQs

I've heard that exfoliating can spread acne, is this true?

It's true, over-exfoliating or exfoliating too aggressively can spread acne. Instead of using a manual scrub, you may want to use a chemical exfoliant that uses alpha hydroxy acid such as the Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel by MD Skincare or AHA 20 by Donell.

I have very dry and sensitive skin. Is there an exfoliant that I can use without causing damage?

Gentle Cream Exfoliant by Dermalogica combines lactic acid, salicylic acid and fruit enzymes which detach dead skin cells and promote cell renewal. Dr. Brandt's Exfoliating Facial Wash is enriched with vitamins and grapefruit peel extract and uses perfectly round beads to gently exfoliate the skin, making it gentle enough for daily use.

I use moisturizer every day, but my skin is still flaky, especially on my forehead. What can I do to eliminate the flakes?

Try using a moisturizing exfoliating scrub like Dr. Brandt Microdermabrasion or Micro Exfoliating Scrub by Biomedic. Follow with a moisturizer that contains alpha hydroxy acids, such as Ultra-Rich Restorative Crème Intense Moisturization by Exuviance, 15% AHA/BHA Face Cream by SkinMedica, or Advanced Hydrating Complex Cream by MD Forte.

My knees and elbows are extremely rough and dry. Are there any products that can help me?

There are several moisturizing body scrubs that can help restore smoothness to rough areas like knees and elbows. Conditioning Body Scrub by Biomedic can be used on wet or dry skin for rapid exfoliation benefits. Satin - Elbow, Knee & Heel Cream by Z. Bigatti smoothes, hydrates, and polishes problem areas, turning them into soft and supple skin. Ultra Heel and Elbow Cream by Glytone uses glycolic acid to remove and smooth dry, coarse, dead skin.

I like giving myself pedicures. What exfoliating products can help give me sandal-ready feet at home?

The poppy seeds, walnut powder and white clay in L'Occitane's Shea Butter Exfoliating Foot Scrub eliminates dead skin cells and prevents calluses. Body Line Thermal Hand & Feet Smoother by Babor is an anti-callus formula that improves dry-rough areas of skin.

My back has been breaking out a lot lately; how can I prevent future break-outs?

Back acne can be tough to treat, so you may need to resort to prescription remedies. The best course of action is to consult your doctor, but an exfoliating scrub such as Pumice Acne Scrub by DDF, a medicated foaming cleanser, can help.