Exfoliation is one of the most misunderstood steps in skincare.
Done right, it can leave your skin smoother, brighter and clearer.
Done wrong? It can lead to redness, sensitivity, breakouts - or even long-term damage to your skin barrier.
At Folli Oil, we believe exfoliation should be gentle, effective and kind to your skin - never harsh or overcomplicated.
Let’s break down what exfoliation really means, how to do it safely and what your skin actually needs to thrive.
What Is Exfoliation (and Why Does It Matter)?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin.
Your skin naturally sheds these cells every 28–40 days, but sometimes that cycle slows down - leading to dullness, rough texture, clogged pores and ingrown hairs.
A gentle exfoliation routine helps to:
- Smooth rough or bumpy skin
- Clear clogged pores
- Reduce breakouts and ingrown hairs
- Improve absorption of other skincare products
- Reveal fresher, healthier-looking skin
Types of Exfoliation: Physical vs. Chemical
There are two main types of exfoliants - and they both have their place when done gently:
🧽 Physical Exfoliation
This includes body scrubs, brushes or cloths that manually slough away dead skin cells.
✅ Can feel satisfying
✅ Ideal for rough skin or keratosis pilaris
🚫 Must be gentle - harsh scrubbing can cause microtears or inflammation
We recommend: our Body Scrub, which combines ultra-fine powders with skin-nourishing oils.
🌿 Chemical Exfoliation
Uses natural acids or enzymes to dissolve dead skin and unclog pores - without scrubbing.
✅ Great for sensitive or acne-prone skin
✅ Helps with congestion, dullness, uneven texture
✅ Often more effective long-term than physical exfoliants
We recommend: our Exfoliating Tonic - powered by willow bark (a natural source of salicylic acid).
How to Exfoliate Without Damaging Your Skin
1. Less Is More
Over-exfoliation is one of the most common skincare mistakes. Start with 2–3 times a week, and don’t exfoliate broken, sunburned or inflamed skin.
2. Be Gentle
Exfoliation should never burn, sting, or leave your skin red and sore. If it does, it’s too much - or the product isn’t right for your skin type.
3. Always Moisturise After
Exfoliation leaves your skin more vulnerable - so follow up with a nourishing oil (like our Daily Treatment Oil) to lock in hydration and calm your skin barrier.
4. Use the Right Products for Your Skin Concern
- Ingrown hairs or shaving bumps? Try our Exfoliating Tonic 2–3 times a week.
- Keratosis pilaris? Use a natural scrub once or twice a week + daily hydration.
- Body acne? Use a gentle exfoliant with willow bark extract to clear clogged pores, and follow with lightweight hydration to calm and balance the skin.
Your Simple, Safe Exfoliation Routine
✅ Step 1: Cleanse
✅ Step 2: Exfoliate (physical or chemical)
✅ Step 3: Hydrate with a nourishing oil
That’s it. No 12-step routine. No stinging acids. Just real, balanced care.
Real Skin Deserves Real Care
At Folli Oil, we’ve seen how powerful gentle exfoliation can be - not just for skin clarity, but for confidence.
That’s why we formulate natural exfoliants that smooth, soothe and support your skin’s natural rhythm - never stripping it.
Discover our plant-powered exfoliants and give your skin the care it truly needs.
You might also like to read:
Keratosis Pilaris (“Chicken Skin”): What It Is and How to Smooth It Out
Tired of Post-Shave Redness? Here’s How to Calm Your Skin Naturally
Why Hydration Is the Secret to Calmer, Stronger, Healthier Skin