This Is When You Should Exfoliate

It's not always easy to tell what is best for you skin, especially when the seasons change. During the summer months, your skin goes through a lot — from too much sun exposure to elevated temperatures. If you wear layers of makeup and sweat from the heat, you may be familiar with clogged pores or random acne, so you might be wondering if you should exfoliate in the summer.

I've always loved exfoliating my face with a good exfoliator once a week but was curious if there was a certain time during the year when you should exfoliate more often. Exfoliating helps get rid of dead skin cells and that extra dirt and grime, but is this a part of a beauty routine that can be overdone during the summer?

Dr. Kally Papantoniou, a cosmetic dermatologist in New York, suggests continuing to exfoliate once per week during the warmer months, depending on how active you are outdoors. "If you are going to be in the sun for prolonged periods, like going to the beach or playing an outdoor sport, I would suggest holding off from any exfoliation," she says.

From face scrubs, body scrubs, and even sponges, finding an exfoliator that works on your skin is vital to add to your skin care routine this summer.

Here are some of my favorite exfoliators to consider using this season:

1. Origins Never A Dull Moment Skin-Brightening Face Polisher

Origins Never A Dull Moment Skin-Brightening Face Polisher, $29, Nordstrom

This has been my number one favorite exfoliator for years now, and it leaves your skin so bright and feeling so clean because of its ground apricot and mango seeds. Finding an exfoliator that you love will help you stay on track with your routine as Dr. Papantoniou says, "Regular exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and keeps your skin tone nice and even, allowing your creams to hydrate your skin better."

2. Mario Badescu Strawberry Face Scrub

Mario Badescu Strawberry Face Scrub, $15, Nordstrom

This scrub will leave your face fresh and clean as the strawberry seeds help unclog pores and prevent black heads from forming.

3. Kiss My Face Start Up Exfoliating Face Wash

Kiss My Face Start Up Exfoliating Face Wash, $15, Amazon

This exfoliating face wash promises to revitalize your skin with its blend of natural green tea and other plant sources.

4. Murad Pore Reform Skin Smoothing Polish

Murad Pore Reform Skin Smoothing Polish, $26, Amazon

With a thicker formula, this skin polish features polishing beads combined with witch hazel and cinnamon to balance oil production.

5. Grapefruit Correct & Repair Daily Facial Scrub

Yes To Grapefruit Correct & Repair Daily Facial Scrub, $10, Walgreens

With its lemon balm extract and other antioxidants, this facial scrub is safe to use daily.

If you still can't find a scrub that's right for you, Dr. Papantoniou suggests a simple natural alternative. "You can apply honey in a thin layer, let sit for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse to gently exfoliate skin cells." Above all, you should always remember to wear a sunscreen that has broad UVA/UVB coverage every day.

Images: Fotolia (1); Courtesy of Brands (5)