As winter comes to an end, many of us notice our skin feeling a little lacklustre. Cold weather, indoor heating, and heavier skincare products can leave the complexion looking dull, dry, and in need of renewal. This is where exfoliation becomes your skin’s seasonal reset - a gentle way to sweep away what’s no longer serving you and reveal the glow beneath.
“Think of exfoliation as a spring clean for your skin,” explains Vita, owner and founder of Dolce Vita Skin. “It doesn’t just brighten your complexion - it allows every other step in your routine to perform better.”
Why exfoliation matters more than you think
Exfoliation does far more than improve texture. It sets the stage for healthy, youthful skin. Research has shown that skin cell turnover slows dramatically with age - from every 28 days in our twenties to every 40–60 days by our forties and beyond. This slowdown means dead cells linger on the surface longer, leading to dullness, congestion, and uneven tone.
Regular exfoliation helps:
- Boost Radiance – removing surface build-up restores luminosity.
- Maximise Absorption – serums and moisturisers can penetrate more effectively.
- Refine Texture – keeping pores clear minimises roughness and congestion.
- Support Youthfulness – encouraging cell renewal helps soften fine lines.
The 3 types of exfoliators - and who they’re for
Not all exfoliators are created equal. Choosing the right one for your skin makes all the difference.
Chemical Exfoliators (AHAs & BHAs): Acids like glycolic, lactic, or salicylic gently dissolve dead skin cells. Brilliant for dryness, dullness, or congestion. We love: Rationale #5 The Mask
Enzyme Exfoliators: Fruit-derived actives such as papaya or pineapple resurface without acids or scrubbing. Perfect for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin. We love: Cosmedix Pure Enzymes Cranberry Exfoliating Mask
Mechanical (Physical) Exfoliators: Think scrubs. These manually polish away buildup and can work well for oily or thicker skin types. Avoid if you have inflamed acne or highly sensitive skin. We love: iS Clinical Cleansing Complex Polish
Myth Busting: More Isn’t Always Better
A common misconception is that exfoliating daily speeds up results. In reality, over-exfoliation can weaken your skin barrier, leading to irritation, dehydration, and even breakouts. “Most skins thrive with gentle exfoliation once or twice a week - it’s about consistency, not intensity,” says Vita.
Insider tips for getting the glow
- Pair exfoliation with hydration: Follow immediately with a hydrating serum or mask. Exfoliated skin acts like a sponge, soaking up active ingredients more effectively.
- Nighttime is prime time: Exfoliating in the evening allows your skin to rest and repair overnight, amplifying results.
- Don’t forget the neck and décolletage: These areas are often overlooked yet show early signs of ageing. Treat them with the same care as your face.
- Sun protection is non-negotiable: Freshly exfoliated skin is more photosensitive. Daily SPF is a must - even on cloudy days.
Your Seasonal Reset
As we welcome spring, exfoliation is your invitation to start fresh - revealing smoother, brighter, more receptive skin that’s ready to embrace the season ahead.
At Dolce Vita Skin, we believe education is the most powerful tool you can have in your skincare journey. Because when you understand your skin, you can truly care for it.
