How To Remove Dead Skin From Face?

If you are looking for the best ways to improve your skin health and get that radiant glow, you cannot overlook the role of exfoliation. Removing dead skin cells is a vital step in a healthy skincare regimen It leaves your skin clear and fresh and lends you an unmistakable glow. Read on to find out what dead skin is, why we have it, and why removing it is important. Learn tips on how to remove dead skin from the face, the different methods of exfoliation, and some great home remedies for removing dead skin from the face. We will also discuss effective ways to prevent the excessive build-up of dead skin cells on the face to maintain healthy skin.

What Is Dead Skin?

Dead skin is the outermost layer of the skin after it has undergone shedding. Shedding dead skin or desquamation is a natural, regenerative, cyclic process of the body. The skin has a system of renewing itself, peeling off to be replaced by new cells from underneath.

Dead skin appears on the topmost epidermal layer, the stratum corneum. It is made up of a protein called keratin, which protects the skin against environmental damage, pathogens, and dehydration.

Our skin cells take 28 to 42 days to move from the dermis (middle layer) to the epidermis (outer layer) before shedding naturally.[1]

What Are The Symptoms Of Dead Skin?

When you don’t exfoliate your skin at regular intervals, dead skin cells accumulate and your dead skin face takes over. You may notice white or grey patches. People with darker skin tones will notice their skin appears ashy.
Here are the signs and symptoms of dead skin:

• Roughness:

When dead skin builds up, your skin is likely to feel rough and uneven to touch. It becomes dry with excessive flakiness.

• Dullness:

Your natural skin texture starts to look dull and lifeless with accumulated dead skin cells. You may notice reduced facial glow and a dehydrated look.

• Clogged Pores:

Clogged pores with excessive blackheads, whiteheads, or acne are a common outcome of dead skin accumulation. Dead skin traps sebum and pollution underneath, which may get infected, causing pimples and acne.

What Causes Dead Skin Cells?  

Dead skin cells on the face and the rest of the body are a common phenomenon and a part of the skin’s natural life cycle. Here are the reasons why dead skin cells accumulate on the skin:

Natural Causes:

• Skin Renewal Cycle: The skin naturally renews itself every 28 to 40 days. However, all cells do not shed at the same time. This is a continuous process in which lower epidermal layers gradually move up to the surface, where they die and eventually shed.
• Ageing: As we age, the natural cell turnover rate or the renewal process, slows down. This causes slower dead skin shedding, and the cells tend to build up on the surface.

Environmental Factors:

• Weather Conditions: The skin tends to dry out faster in cold, dry air or intense heat. This speeds up the shedding process. Your skin also becomes dry and flaky when there is low humidity.
• Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage skin cells. This is another reason for faster turnover and increased production of dead skin cells. Common areas include dead skin on the forehead, cheeks, nose, hands and arms.
• Pollution: Harsh environmental pollutants can sometimes damage the top layer of the skin. They promote oxidative stress, drying and dehydrating the skin quickly and there is a build-up of dead skin cells.

Lifestyle Factors:

• Dehydration: When we do not drink enough water, our skin cells get dehydrated and dry. As a result, there is increased flakiness and dead skin cell build-up.
• Diet: An imbalanced diet lacks essential skin-friendly nutrients like vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids. It can negatively impact skin health, leading to dryness and increased dead skin cell production.
• Lack Of Sleep: Very few people realise that sleep quality plays a role in maintaining skin health. Inadequate sleep can disrupt the skin’s natural repair processes[2], resulting in slower dead skin cell shedding, which in turn accumulates on the surface.

Poor Skincare Habits:

• Improper Cleansing: Not cleansing your skin properly or enough times can lead to the accumulation of dead skin cells, dirt, and oil on the surface.
• Infrequent Exfoliation: Without regular exfoliation, dead skin cells can accumulate, causing a dull and rough skin texture.
• Over-Exfoliation: Exfoliating too much with harsh exfoliants damages the skin barrier. It irritates the skin, which enters the repair mode, increasing the production of dead skin cells.

Medical Conditions:

• Skin Disorders: Conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and ichthyosis can cause abnormal skin cell turnover, leading to the build-up of dead skin cells.
• Fungal Infections: Infections such as athlete’s foot can result in the shedding of dead skin cells in affected areas.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or due to certain medical conditions can affect skin cell turnover rates.

Why Is It Important To Remove Dead Skin Cells?

Let us understand in detail why it is important to get dead skin off the face or any other part of your body.

• Maintains Healthy And Vibrant Skin:

New skin always looks even-toned and radiant. With proper exfoliation, you can say goodbye to dullness and dryness.

• Prevents Clogged Pores:

By removing dead skin, you help open up the pores. This unclogs them and prevents or reduces blackheads, whiteheads, and acne.

• Enhances Effectiveness Of Skincare Products:

When you remove dead skin cells, you notice better absorption of your moisturisers, serums, and other skincare treatments. This also enhances the overall benefits of your skincare routine.

• Promotes Smoother Skin Texture:

Exfoliation removes rough and flaky skin, leading to softer, smoother, and even-textured skin.

• Stimulates Cell Turnover and Collagen Production:

When dead cells are removed, new cell growth occurs, and collagen production is boosted. This helps maintain skin elasticity and reduces the signs of ageing.

• Improves Overall Skin Health:

Proper exfoliation removes dead skin cells, keeps the skin hydrated, and supports a youthful and glowing complexion.

How To Get Rid Of Dead Skin From Face?

If you want clear, smooth and radiant skin and are wondering how to get rid of dead skin on the face there are different methods you can try. It is good to remember that there is no one best way to remove dead skin from the face.

However, here are some of the most effective ways to get rid of dead skin on your face:

Microdermabrasion:

This is a non-invasive procedure that makes use of tiny crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to gently exfoliate the skin surface. Microdermabrasion is used to remove dead skin cells, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and improves skin texture.

Chemical Peels:

Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin that causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. This process removes dead skin cells and reveals newer, smoother skin underneath. Chemical peels are of different strengths and are prescribed based on your skin type, condition and need. They help address issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, and signs of ageing.

Retinoids:

These applications are rich in vitamin A and help speed up the cell turnover process.[3] As a result, dead skin cells shed faster, revealing radiant, smoother skin. Retinoids are available in both over-the-counter and prescription forms and are suitable for most skin types. However, first do a patch test to check for mild irritation or dryness. The use of retinoids helps improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and treat acne, giving you more youthful-looking skin.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs):

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are water-soluble acids that help dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, making them easier to remove.[4] Some examples of AHAs are glycolic and lactic acid. You can use face masks, serums, cleansers and lotions with AHAs to help treat sun-damaged, dry, and peeling skin. AHAs moisten the skin and make it easy to remove painlessly. They also improve skin texture and hydration when used consistently.

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs):

Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are oil-soluble acids that penetrate deeper into the pores of the skin to exfoliate from within.[5] Salicylic acid is the most commonly suggested BHA for skin health. BHAs exfoliate oily and acne-prone skin, helping unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and prevent breakouts. If you have oily skin, opt for BHA-rich products in your routine for best results.

How To Exfoliate Dead Skin From The Face?

If you want to learn how to get rid of dead skin on your face, you must first understand your skin type. Your skin could be sensitive, normal, dry, oily, or a combination of dry and oily. If you do not know your skin type, consult a dermatologist for an assessment.

Once you identify your skin type, you try the following methods to exfoliate your face.

Chemical Exfoliation:

Despite its name, this is the gentlest and the best way to remove dead skin from face. You can use either AHAs and BHAs, depending on your skin type.

While AHAs are the best for normal to dry skin types, BHAs are more suitable for exfoliating oily skin. Lactic acid, citric acid, malic acid and glycolic acid are common AHAs to look for in your chemical exfoliator. Salicylic acid is the best-known BHA to use. People with normal skin can use products containing both for the best results.

In addition to these, enzyme peels are great chemical exfoliators too. They are derived from fruits and are gentle on sensitive skin. They help remove dead skin cells without aggravating cell turnover, hence are ideal for use on inflamed or easily irritable skin.

Mechanical Exfoliation:

This is a not-so-gentle exfoliation method that involves physically exfoliating the skin with a scrubbing cream or powder, a brush, or a soft cloth.

This method is best suited for normal to dry skin and must be avoided on sensitive skin.

• Dry Brushing: You can use a dry soft-bristle brush to gently massage your skin and remove dead skin cells.
• Soft Cloth Exfoliation: Use a soft cloth on your freshly washed face to get rid of dead skin cells. Be gentle and do not apply too much pressure. A mulmul face towel is best for this purpose.
• Exfoliating Powders And Pastes: Use a powder like Multani Mitti or oatmeal scrub to form a thick exfoliating paste for the face. Apply it and gently scrub in a circular motion to remove dead cells.

Before & After Results

See the before and after results of removing dead skin from your face, revealing a smoother, brighter, and more radiant complexion:

How To Remove Dead Skin On The Body?

Natural and homemade scrubs work best to remove dead skin on the body. Apply light pressure and rub the area in a circular motion.

• For arms, legs, shoulders, back and stomach, use a soft brush.
• Pumice stones or steel-based scrubs work better for the hard skin on the ankles, toes and soles.
• Soaking tough areas of the skin in warm water mixed with a mild liquid soap for 15 mins can help get rid of the dead skin easily. You can add some rose water for added hydration.
• Never be too harsh while scrubbing.
• Always apply a body lotion after exfoliation as it helps your skin to hydrate.

How To Remove Dead Skin From Face Naturally At Home?

You can use gentle and effective home remedies to remove dead skin from your face. These methods use readily available ingredients and have exfoliating, moisturising, and nourishing properties.

Here are some of the best home remedies for removing dead skin from face:

Oatmeal:

• How It Works: Oatmeal acts as a gentle exfoliant and contains saponins that cleanse the skin.
• How To Use: Mix two tablespoons of ground oatmeal with two tablespoons of plain yoghurt and one tablespoon of honey. Apply the mixture to your face, gently massage in circular motions for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Coffee:

• How It Works: Coffee grounds are great for mechanical exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and improving circulation.
• How To Use: Combine 1 tablespoon of coffee grounds with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Gently scrub your face with the mixture in circular motions, then rinse with warm water.

Foot Scrub:

• How It Works: A foot scrub can also be effective on the face if it contains fine granules.
• How To Use: Use a mild foot scrub with ingredients like sugar or salt and gently massage it onto your face. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Orange Peels:

• How It Works: Orange peels contain citric acid that helps in natural exfoliation.
• How To Use: Dry orange peels in the sun and grind them into a powder. Mix one tablespoon of orange peel powder with two tablespoons of yoghurt. Apply to your face, let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub gently and rinse off.

Vinegar Soak:

• How It Works: Apple cider vinegar balances the skin’s pH and has mild exfoliating properties.
• How To Use: Dilute one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water. Soak a cotton ball in the mixture and gently apply it to your face. Rinse off after 5-10 minutes.

Gram Flour:

• How It Works: Gram flour (besan) is a traditional exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells and brightens the complexion.
• How To Use: Mix 2 tablespoons of gram flour with a few teaspoons of milk or yoghurt to form a paste. Apply to your face, let it dry, then scrub off gently with water.

Avocado Seed:

• How It Works: Avocado seeds can be ground into a powder that provides gentle exfoliation.
• How To Use: Dry and grind an avocado seed into a fine powder. Mix with a little honey or yoghurt and use it as a face scrub.

Epsom Salt:

• How It Works: Epsom salt exfoliates and soothes the skin.
• How To Use: Mix 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt with one tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil. Gently massage onto your face and rinse off with warm water.

Pumice Stone:

• How It Works: Pumice stone is usually used for tougher areas like feet, but a very fine pumice stone can be used on the face with caution.
• How To Use: Wet the pumice stone and gently rub it in circular motions on damp skin. Apply very light pressure and rinse off. To avoid irritation, only use it occasionally.

Olive Oil:

• How It Works: Olive oil moisturises the skin and can help loosen dead skin cells.
• How To Use: Massage a few drops of olive oil into your skin. Leave it on for a few minutes, then use a warm, damp cloth to wipe it away.

Paraffin Wax:

• How It Works: Paraffin wax softens the skin and can help remove dead skin when peeled off.
• How To Use: Melt paraffin wax and let it cool slightly. Apply a thin layer to your face, let it dry, then peel off gently.

Almond Scrub:

• How It Works: Ground almonds are a natural exfoliant that gently removes dead skin cells.
• How To Use: Mix one tablespoon of ground almonds with honey or yoghurt. Massage the mixture onto your face in circular motions, then rinse off with warm water.

Skin Scrubs:

• How It Works: Skin scrubs can be made from various natural ingredients like sugar, salt, or baking soda combined with oils or other liquids.
• How to Use: Choose a base (sugar, salt, baking soda) and mix it with a suitable oil (coconut, olive, almond). Apply to the face, massage gently, and rinse.

Face Scrubs:

• How It Works: Face scrubs specifically-formulated for delicate facial skin can also be made at home using gentle exfoliants like oatmeal or rice flour.
• How To Use: Mix a gentle exfoliant (oatmeal, rice flour) with a soothing agent (yoghurt, honey). Massage into your face, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse.

How To Prevent Dead Skin Cells?

A proper, consistent skincare routine is the best way to get rid of dead skin on face.

Here’s what you can do to prevent dead skin cells build-up:

Cleanse:

Always use a gentle face wash to cleanse your skin, removing dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. A gentle cleanser will not rob your skin of its natural oils.

• Opt for mild, sulphate-free cleansers and lukewarm water to wash your face twice a day.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or hot water, as these can damage the skin barrier, cause dryness, and further build-up of dead skin cells.

Exfoliate:

Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells from the surface, giving you a smoother and a more even complexion. You can use physical exfoliants, such as scrubs and brushes, or chemical exfoliants, like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs).

• Try to exfoliate 1-2 times a week, depending on your skin type and sensitivity.
• Do not over-exfoliate to prevent skin irritation.

Moisturise:

Keeping your skin well-moisturised helps prevent dryness and flakiness. It keeps the skin hydrated and maintains its natural barrier, thus providing a protective layer against environmental stressors.

• Make sure you use a moisturiser suitable for your skin type.
• Moisturise immediately after cleansing and exfoliating for maximum benefits.

Use Sunscreen:

Protecting your skin from UV damage is important to prevent premature ageing and excessive dead skin cell production.

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 daily.
• Make sure to use sunscreen even on cloudy days and during winter.

Dry Your Face Gently:

Often when we try to remove dead skin cells we assume that rough face drying with a towel will help. However, on the contrary, it causes microtears in the skin. These can lead to irritation and infection.

• After cleansing, gently pat your face dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it.
• Patting helps maintain the skin’s integrity and keeps it smooth and healthy.

Hydration:

Never forget that a skincare regimen is incomplete without adequate body hydration. Proper hydration supports the skin’s natural renewal process, helping to prevent the build-up of dead skin cells.

• Drinking plenty of water keeps the skin healthy from the inside out.
• Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day to ensure your skin stays plump and moisturised.

Takeaway

Removing dead skin is important to maintain a healthy and radiant complexion. Regular exfoliation using AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids, and a proper cleansing and hydration routine will work wonders! Exfoliation unclogs pores and gives you a smoother texture while enabling better absorption of skincare products, improving your overall skin health.

You can also try home remedies for gentle and regular exfoliation. But exercise caution as home treatments may also cause side effects that damage the skin. It is best to consult a dermatologist as their expertise on how to remove dead skin from face is unmatched.

Frequently Asked Questions on How To Remove Dead Skin From Face

Q1. Is It OK to Remove Dead Skin?

A1. Yes, you must remove dead skin to allow new skin cells to surface.

Q2. What Breaks Down Dead Skin?

A2. Exfoliation breaks down dead skin, and you can physically exfoliate it using scrubs, brushes, or opt for chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs. These help dissolve and remove dead skin cells, revealing the fresh skin underneath.

Q3. Does Dead Skin Flake Off?

A3. Yes, dead skin often flakes off as it loses moisture and becomes dry before it starts to shed.

Q4. Why Won’t My Dead Skin Go Away?

A4. Dead skin sheds on its own in most cases. However, sometimes cell turnover slows down, and the dead cells do not fall off easily. This could be due to factors like ageing,

Q5. Is Rubbing Off Dead Skin Good?

A5. No, rubbing off dead skin is a bad idea. It can over-peel the already flaky skin, resulting in tears, bleeding and subsequent infection.

Q6. Does Dead Skin Get Hard?

A6. Yes, dead skin starts to lose water very fast, and as it dries, it becomes hard, flaky and rough to touch. Many times dead skin build-up also leads to hard and crusty patches on the skin.

Q7. How To Remove Dead Skin Without Scrubbing?

A7. You can remove dead skin without scrubbing using chemical exfoliants such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). You can also use retinoids to speed up the cell turnover process. This boosts the shedding of dead skin cells. You can use serums, toners, or creams enriched with these products for effective exfoliation without physical scrubbing.

Q8. Do Cold Showers Remove Dead Skin?

A8. No, cold showers do not remove dead skin cells. They may improve blood circulation in the skin, but cold showers do not help exfoliate dead skin.

Q9. Can Warm Water Remove Dead Skin?

A9. No, warm water alone does not work as a dead skin remover from face. However, it helps to soften the skin, making it easy to remove dead skin cells during cleansing or exfoliation.

Q10. Is It OK to Leave Dead Skin?

A10. No, as dead skin build-up can affect skin health, leading to acne, blackheads and whiteheads. It also makes your skin look dull, tired and aged.

Q11. Does Everyone Get Dead Skin?

A11. Yes, everyone gets dead skin, as it is a natural part of your skin lifecycle. The skin cells regularly and constantly renew themselves by shedding old cells and producing new ones.

Q12. How To Remove A Thick Layer Of Dead Skin?

A12. To remove a thick layer of dead skin, use a combination of mechanical exfoliation (such as microdermabrasion or scrub) and chemical exfoliation (like AHAs or BHAs). Exfoliation alone does not help. You must also continue using a moisturiser to keep the skin soft and prevent further build-up.

Q13. Is Ice Good For Dead Skin?

A13. Ice is not specifically suitable for removing dead skin but can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin.

Q14. How Do You Get Rid Of Extreme Dead Skin?

A14. For extreme dead skin build-up, professional treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or professional exfoliating facials work best.

Q15. How Do You Get Rid Of Thick Layer Of Dead Skin?

A15. To remove a thick layer of dead skin, start with gentle exfoliation using a scrub or brush. Follow up with a chemical exfoliant like glycolic or salicylic acid. Consider seeking professional advice for treatments like microdermabrasion or chemical peels for persistent thick layers.

Q16. How To Remove Black Dead Skin From Legs?

A16. Regularly exfoliating your body can address the black dead skin on the legs. Use a body scrub or exfoliating gloves. Moisturise for hydration. For more stubborn areas, consider getting chemical peel treatment after consulting your dermatologist.

Q17. How To Remove Dark Cells From Face?

A17. To remove dark cells from the face, use chemical exfoliants such as AHAs (like glycolic acid) or retinoids. They help promote cell turnover and lighten dark spots. Regular exfoliation and brightening serums containing vitamin C can also help. It is best to consult a dermatologist who can recommend the ingredients your skin needs and the appropriate in-clinic treatments if necessary.

Q18. How To Remove Dead And Dry Skin From Face?

A18. Exfoliate the face 2-3 times a week with a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant to remove dead and dry skin. For great results, consider in-clinic chemical peeling treatments.

Q19. How To Remove Dead Black Skin From Face?

A19. To remove dead black skin from the face, use a combination of chemical exfoliants (AHAs and BHAs). These help to break down the dead cells and brighten the skin. Regularly using a mild exfoliating scrub can also help maintain clear and even-toned skin.

Q20. How To Remove Dirt And Dead Skin From Face?

A20. To remove the dirt from your face, wash with a gentle cleanser. Then, remove dead skin cells with a scrub to exfoliate. Use the scrub 3-4 times a week for best results. Do not forget to moisturise in the end to keep the skin soft and hydrated.

Q21. How To Remove The Upper Layer Of Face Skin?

A21. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt. Then, exfoliate to remove dead skin cells. Use the scrub 3-4 times a week for best results. Do not forget to moisturise to keep the skin soft and hydrated.

Q22. How To Remove Dead Skin From Forehead?

Q23. Gently exfoliate the forehead using a fruit—or walnut-based scrub or a chemical exfoliant. Regularly cleanse and moisturise the area to prevent build-up. Be consistent with exfoliation, but do not overdo it as it causes dryness and irritation.

Q24. How To Remove Dead Skin From Oily Face?

A24. For oily skin, use BHA-rich exfoliants like salicylic acid. These penetrate the pores and help remove dead skin cells and excess oil.

Q25. How To Get Rid Of Dead Skin On Face Overnight?

A25. To get rid of dead skin on the face overnight, you can use a leave-on exfoliant. Usually, these contain AHAs or BHAs. Depending upon your skin type, use an AHA mask on dry skin and a BHA mask on oily skin before going to bed. Wash it off the next day, and apply a nourishing moisturiser afterwards to repair and hydrate the skin. Apply sunscreen without fail.