People tend to overlook smooth texture as an integral component of improving skin tone. Utilizing products and treatments specifically targeted toward rough, bumpy skin will allow you to reach your goal look more quickly.
We consulted three dermatologists to gain their insight on how to get silky smooth skin.
1. Exfoliate
When it comes to smoothing out rough or bumpy skin texture, exfoliation is your go-to solution.
Each 28 days, your skin works to clear away old dead cells to make way for new ones – but sometimes this process falls short, leaving behind dead skin cells which lead to flaky, dry skin or clogged pores (and eventually lead to breakouts).
Exfoliating regularly (whether by physical scrubbing at home with scrubs, brushes or chemical peels, or chemical peels) helps remove dead skin cells that contribute to uneven skin tone and rough patches. Dr Ciraldo recommends adding gentle mechanical scrubs or derma rolling into your routine to buff away those dead cells and improve skin texture, or more intensive treatments like HydraFacial (a facial that exfoliates, extracts and hydrates simultaneously), salicylic acid peels or high strength glycolic acid serum or peels (more intensive than what home users can use). If rough bumpy patches remain, board-certified dermatologist may suggest more intensive solutions.
2. Moisturize
Uneven skin texture is a common problem that causes bumps, flakes and enlarged pores. This occurs due to dead skin cell build-up due to genetics, ageing, sun damage, stress or improper skincare regimen.
Ideal skin texture should be soft and supple with balanced oil production that does not clog pores or cause wrinkles. This can be enhanced through regular exfoliation and using moisturizers that target dry patches effectively.
Acne scars and enlarged pores contribute to uneven skin texture and dull appearance, caused by factors like genetics, hormones, excessive sun exposure, lack of exfoliation or irritation from conditions like eczema or rosacea and rough patches from keratosis pilaris. A healthy diet and lifestyle may help mitigate some of these issues; but to find effective products and treatments you’d best consult a licensed dermatology provider.
3. Retinol
Retinol and retinoids are an indispensable addition to your skin-care routine, and have proven themselves over and over again in scientific trials. Retinol’s role is twofold: speeding cell renewal while increasing collagen production – both helping reduce indentations, scarring, discolouration and disfigurement; as well as inhibiting melanin production to fade dark marks while even out your complexion.
Over-the-counter retinol products need to convert to retinoic acid before being effective, while stronger forms like tretinoin and granactive retinoid (hydroxypinacolone retinoate) can work on their own without irritation. For maximum effectiveness, look for products with higher concentrations of these molecules; higher isn’t necessarily better!
When it comes to treating uneven skin texture, your diet and lifestyle have just as much of an effect as skincare treatments. Following basic rules – exfoliation, moisturization and sunscreen application – is all it takes for beautiful and soft skin to return.
4. Vitamin C
All of us desire soft, smooth skin; unfortunately, not everyone can achieve this ideal appearance. Bumpy or rough textures may be caused by factors like dryness, dead skin buildup, clogged pores, acne breakouts or sun damage – among others.
One effective way to enhance skin texture is through exfoliating products containing AHAs or an exfoliating scrub, or taking nightly doses of retinol which has been clinically shown to increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen production.
One way to even out uneven skin texture is with a moisturizer featuring ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which draws moisture deep into the skin for plump, hydrated complexion. Peptides may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles over time while microneedling is an effective cosmetic procedure performed by professionals to eliminate acne scars and enlarged pores; it can either take place in-office or at a spa/clinic.
