Winter exfoliation means fewer sessions and gentler products

You can exfoliate safely in winter by reducing frequency and using a milder exfoliant like lactic acid or PHA instead of strong glycolic or physical scrubs.

Winter air is dry. Your moisture barrier is already working overtime. Slapping on a harsh scrub or a high-concentration acid every other day is a recipe for redness, irritation, and that tight, crepey feeling. You don’t need to stop exfoliating entirely — just adjust.

Switch to something like lactic acid (5% or less) or a polyhydroxy acid (PHA), which exfoliates more gently and even adds a bit of hydration. Use it once a week, maybe twice if your skin handles it. Physical scrubs? Hard pass in winter — too much friction on compromised skin. And always, always follow with a solid moisturizer or balm while your skin is still damp.

Also pay attention to signs: if your skin stings when you apply moisturizer, you’ve gone too far. Back off for a week and focus on barrier repair (ceramides, ni