Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1464744
38 ASCP Skin Deep Spring 2022 that this fight is happening, our clients can now be conscious that their actions are supporting the microbiome's ability to protect their skin, rather than scrubbing it away. CLASSIC SIGNS OF OVEREXFOLIATION It's easy to tell if someone is overdoing it on the exfoliators. Signs include: • Irritation • Redness • Inflammation • Burning or peeling • Breakouts, especially small pimples • Increased sensitivity to normally suitable products* *In my opinion, increased sensitivity to an otherwise normal product is the classic telltale sign of overexfoliation. If your client comments that their moisturizer is suddenly "too tingly" or it "burns" their skin, you should consider looking into whether that client is overexfoliated. There is one symptom of overexfoliation that's harder to pinpoint: The skin may develop a tight, waxy-like texture, which can be confused for a healthy glow when it's anything but. It can look waxy from wiping away skin cells and natural oils, allowing premature exposure of underlying skin. The skin appears as if it has a radiant shine, though it is, in fact, very dry and exposed. Overexposure can devolve into painful cracking and peeling skin. As a reference, a healthy glow will always look plump and moisturized, not dry, thin, or waxy. Some of these symptoms tend to make clients feel like they need to exfoliate more, but advise the client to resist.