3 Ways You Can Remove Dead Skin Cells From Your Face

When it comes to keeping your skin in the best shape, you likely enlist the help of a solid skin care routine. However, no matter how many skin care products you have in your arsenal, dead skin cells will eventually make an appearance. When dead skin accumulates, it can cause your complexion to look dull and feel rough. 

If you’re looking to keep dead skin at bay, as we suspect you are, it’s time you learn (or get a refresher in) the fundamentals of exfoliation. Follow along as we share three tips to help you master removing dead skin from your face.

What Causes Dead Skin Cell Buildup?

Before we dive into how to remove dead skin, it’s only right we explain what causes this pesky buildup. Like many skin care concerns, there are a myriad of reasons why dead skin on your face can become a concern. While dead skin cells are absolutely normal and part of how your skin refreshes itself, they can build up over time — which is when it can take a toll on your complexion.

The main culprit behind this buildup is none other than failing to regularly exfoliate your face. Exfoliating is the most effective way to remove dead skin cells in order to keep your skin soft and smooth.

Other reasons for dead skin cell buildup include aging (skin cell renewal slows down with age), dry skin and environmental factors.

How to Remove Dead Skin Cells From Your Face

Now we’re getting to the aspect of this topic you’re probably most interested in — learning how to remove dead skin from your face. Follow these four tips below to work your way to healthier-looking and more vibrant skin.

1. Pick Up A Face Scrub

When dead skin cells are getting you down, take matters into your own hands with a face scrub. Face scrubs are an example of mechanical exfoliation, which allows you to physically shed dead skin cells from your skin’s surface.

Try using a sugar scrub, like the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Sugar Resurface & Energize Kona Coffee Scrub. This scrub is formulated with a blend of three pure sugars and Kona coffee grounds to effectively remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin’s surface — gently polishing away the look of a dull complexion.

2. Use the Right Tools

Believe it or not, there are a few beauty tools you can use to remove dead skin. These tools are an excellent way to amp up your skin care routine while adding some exfoliation into the mix. Not to mention, they are another great method of mechanical exfoliation. Here are some of our favorites. 

Facial exfoliating brush: If you’re knowledgeable about skin care and what tools to use, then you’re likely familiar with facial exfoliating brushes. Designed to be used on damp skin with a cleanser, this tool comes in handy to give your skin a deep clean while removing dead skin at the same time. Available in electric and manual offerings, face brushes can have a big impact on your dead skin routine.

Washcloth: Washcloths are likely a staple in your shower routine, but they can totally be used to exfoliate your face, too. Simply rubbing a washcloth over your face in circular motions is all you need to remove dead skin cells.

Microdermabrasion: If you love the idea of at-home skin treatments, microdermabrasion should definitely be on your radar for tackling dead skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, microdermabrasion is a non-invasive treatment that gently exfoliates the top layer of your skin. Keep in mind, however, DIY microdermabrasion at home is not as effective as seeing a professional.

3. Try Liquid Exfoliators

Another method we love for removing dead skin cells is liquid exfoliators. A great way to enjoy the benefits of chemical exfoliation, these formulas use mild exfoliants to dissolve dead skin. If your skin can’t handle traditional exfoliants or if you’re working with dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin, liquid exfoliators are an excellent choice. 

In terms of ingredients to look for, glycolic acid is a great exfoliating acid that’s commonly found in liquid formulas. You can use the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Brightening Daily Peel Pads or the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum after cleansing at night for smoother and younger looking complexion. If you prefer to exfoliate while cleansing, try the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 3.5% Glycolic Acid Cleanser to prep your skin for the rest of your routine.

If you want to refresh and remove dead skin all at once, the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 5 Percent Glycolic Acid Peeling Toner will make it happen. This gentle formula contains 5 percent glycolic acid to smooth skin texture and brighten uneven skin tone. To use, saturate a cotton pad and smooth over face and neck for desired results.

When using exfoliating acids, make sure to follow up with a moisturizer that contains SPF — like the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Day Lotion SPF 30 — in the morning to protect skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

While it’s not a way to remove dead skin cells, moisturizing is equally as important when it comes to exfoliating. Since exfoliation can sometimes make skin feel dry, it’s essential to follow up with this skin care essential to keep your complexion healthy and balanced. Layer on a thick, nourishing moisturizer the L’Oréal Paris Collagen Moisture Filler Facial Day Cream Fragrance Free to replenish the skin’s moisture levels for a smooth and plump complexion. 

Next: How to Minimize the Appearance of Large Pores

Edited by: Shannon Stubbs, Photo Credit: Chaunte Vaughn