Can Exfoliating Acids Be Used In Summer?

We all love using acids in our skincare routine, don’t we? Glow-y, dewy skin in a couple of minutes, who wouldn’t want that! But with summer in full swing RN, the sun damage is more pronounced, and acids increase our skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. So, the big question arises: is it okay to use exfoliating acids in Summer? Keep scrolling to know! 

1. To exfoliate or not to exfoliate?

Exfoliating in summers is a risk, but if done right it’s a risk that pays off well! The catch is to know how frequently to exfoliate, when to exfoliate, and how to care post-exfoliating. So, if you’re a fan of AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHA (beta hydroxy acid) then don’t let the summer months get in the way.

2. Which exfoliating acid should you use? 

Exfoliating acids, well…exfoliate. So it is only natural to not know which one is for your skin. Let us break it down for you. 

• Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Salicylic acid is perfect to unclog pores, get rid of dead skin cells, and control sebum production
• Dry Skin: Dry skin is easily irritated, which makes lactic acid the best bet here! It is milder than other acids, and exfoliates without irritating dry skin
• Sensitive Skin: Don’t rule out exfoliation just because you have sensitive skin, because azelaic acid has got your back! It unclogs pores as well as calms inflammation
• Combination Skin: Sweep acne, acne spots, and excess oil off your face with the super-effective glycolic acid. A potent AHA, which works on the skin’s upper layer to gently exfoliate.

Anti-ageing: Retinol works wonders for anti-ageing, but it’s much gentler and natural derivative, bakuchiol, is a must-try. It is a plant-based retinol that delivers the same benefits, without irritating the skin. 

3. How frequently should you exfoliate?

Exfoliators, however good, turn bad if not used in regulation. During these warmer months when your skin is loaded with excess oil, sweat, and congested pores, you might be tempted to slather exfoliators every other day. So, keep the rope tight, fight the temptation, and use them for maximum once a week.

Alternatively, you can take the slow-progress route, with our Bravocado Skin Repair Sleeping Mask. It contains ascorbic acid, and is formulated with exfoliating cellulose beads and natural ingredients like avocado, rice water, and pomegranate are perfect for gently sloughing off dead skin cells. Use it as the last step in your PM routine, and wake up to dewy soft skin every morning! 

4. When should you apply exfoliators?

Face washes or toners with exfoliating acids can be used anytime during the day to keep the pores clean. But, as a thumb rule, always reserve your stronger acid exfoliation for the nighttime skincare ritual. Our Mon Cherry Brightening Foam Cleanser, containing citric acid, perfectly fits the bill! Start and end your day with this gentle face wash to get rid of all the gunk and reveal fresher-looking skin.  

5. Should you layer exfoliating acids? 

No. Nope. Never. All kinds of acids, be it AHAs, BHAs and retinol are quite potent on their own. Layering acids is like inviting trouble, because this experiment is fully capable of going south. If your skin concern is dull skin, then you can use AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid to sweep away dead skin cells and clear congestion. We love how the Mama Cica Instabright Peel Pads can just do the trick in seconds. These pre-soaked peel pads have glycolic acid that dissolves dirt, dead skin cells and sebum for spotless skin. 

If acne and blackheads have taken residence on your face, then you need a power-packed BHA like salicylic acid, that you’ll find in the Birch Please Intense Glow Gel Mask. It not only tackles acne but also delivers a noticeable glow. 

And, as you might already know, retinol or its natural derivative, bakuchiol is an anti-ageing wonder. Our Chialeader Zit Fix Serum is the perfect addition to your routine! It also has niacinamide and hyaluronic acid that clear out and plump the skin. 

It is also wise to check your existing skincare products to check for acids in them. You don’t want to layer a toner with salicylic acid, with a glycolic acid serum. If you want to know in depth about layering your acids, then this will help. 

6. How to care for skin post-exfoliating? 

Prepping as well as post-care literally makes up for 50% of the whole process. Not paying heed to these steps can cause your skin to flare up, and we really don’t want that for you. Here’s what to do. 

• Begin with a mild cleanser or a face wash
• Allow your skin to completely dry
• Use your exfoliating acid, and stick to the duration mentioned on the product
• Wash off with cold water
• Follow up with a nourishing moisturizer. Our Bravocado Ultra Light Nourishing Face & Body Cream has the goodness of avocado, apricot kernel oil, and rice water that soothe the skin
• Always, always, always use sunscreen the next day. Bravocado SPF 50+ PA++++ Sunscreen Gel protects your newly exfoliated skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays and keeps your skin soft and smooth

7. Fruit acids that show visible results 

A raving new trend in the skincare world, fruit acids are quite effective and gentle and can be used without a worry all year around. Since they’re directly sourced from fruits, you’ll get all the fruit-y goodness along with exfoliation! 

• If you’re in need of an instant glow, try our Yuzu-enriched range - Yuzu Fine. It has 3x more vitamin C than lemon! Packed with ascorbic acid, it fades dark spots and protects the skin from free radical damage. 

• Your skin’s future looks bright, with our brightening Mon Cherry range. It is brimming with the goodness of grapefruit - the storehouse of citric and malic acids that visibly brightens and revives dull skin. 
• Get rid of bumpy skin texture, and uneven skin tone with our pomegranate-laden Bravocado range. Pomes, being a natural source of AHA, can resurface new skin cells to give you spotless skin
• Give your sensitive skin a DIY facial by mixing milk, ground oats and honey. Milk being rich in lactic acid, will do away with dullness and dirt and make your skin baby soft. 
• Send your tanned, hyperpigmented, and dull skin on a long vacation with a quick papaya face pack. Mash half a cup of papaya with some honey, and rinse after 20 mins. Rich in glycolic acid, it knocks off dead skin cells and makes the skin glow! 

So, while exfoliating acids can be total game-changers, use this article as your guide book the next time you indulge in an exfoliating sesh!