There are both physical and chemical exfoliators, which aid in your skin's cell turnover process. Encouraging cell turnover is key in maintaining a youthful, glowing complexion because you're able to target textured spots, hyperpigmentation, scarring, and more. It's important to find the exfoliators that work for you since each skin type needs different kinds of exfoliants based on sensitivity level and what issues you're trying to resolve.
Different actives may be irritating for sensitive skin, especially Retinol, which is a potent Vitamin A concentrate that acts as an anti-aging ingredient. While AHAs and BHAs serve the same function, they're much more gentle than Retinol.
It's also important to keep in mind that AHAs are water-soluble so they treat the top layers of your skin, which means they focus more on more topical issues like hyperpigmentation, texture, and overall dullness. BHAs are oil-soluble, meaning they cut through the oil in your pores to unclog them, which is particularly useful when you're dealing with breakouts.
Regardless of which exfoliant you're using, it's important that you start incorporating them into your routine in your 20s both as a preventative measure, as well as a habit-forming regimen.
Exfoliators will only become more prominent in your skincare routine as you age, so now is a great time for you to start getting your skin acclimated to them.