What Is Exfoliation? The Secret to Smooth, Glowing, Brown Sugar Skin
- Ashley Nelson
- Oct 18
- 2 min read
Smooth skin isn’t just about what you take off (like hair), but what you let go of (like dullness, buildup, and dead skin cells). That’s where exfoliation comes in. The quiet ritual that keeps your glow alive between your wax or sugar appointments.
What Exactly Is Exfoliation?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. Those cells naturally shed every 30 days, but sometimes they like to overstay their welcome leading to rough texture, clogged pores, and dullness.
When you exfoliate, you’re clearing the path for your skin to breathe, your ingrowns to stay gone, and your moisturizer to actually work.
Think of it as skin decluttering ; out with the old, in with the glow.
Types of Exfoliation
1. Physical Exfoliation
These are scrubs, brushes, and mitts that manually slough off dead skin. Great for the body, but go gentle especially after waxing or sugaring.
Best for: Dry or flaky skin that needs a texture reset.
2. Chemical Exfoliation
These use acids like AHAs (glycolic, lactic) or BHAs (salicylic) to dissolve buildup. Ideal for acne-prone or uneven-toned skin, especially in areas prone to hyperpigmentation.
Best for: Bikini line, underarms, and inner thighs when used in moderation.
Why It Matters After Hair Removal
Regular exfoliation keeps your skin soft, bright, and bump-free. It helps:
Prevent ingrown hairs
Brighten dark spots
Keep regrowth soft
Extend that smooth, just-sugared feel
For your post-wax or sugar glow, exfoliation is non-negotiable but timing is key. Wait 2–3 days after your appointment before starting.
BST Approved Exfoliators:
Affordable & Effective
Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub (Vitamin C or Lemon Blueberry Tart) – a cult favorite for body glow.
Versed Doctor’s Visit Resurfacing Mask – gentle chemical exfoliant with AHA/BHA/enzymes.
EcoTools Dry Body Brush – perfect for boosting circulation and exfoliating before showering.
Mid-Range & Skin Therapist Approved
KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub by First Aid Beauty – ideal for ingrown prevention and textured skin.
Pacifica Glow Baby AHA Body Peel Pads – a smooth wipe for in-between appointments.
Tree Hut Firming Sugar Scrub (Mocha & Coffee Bean) – doubles as a spa moment in your shower.
Elevated Glow Energy
Fenty Skin Buff Ryder Exfoliating Body Scrub – Caribbean-inspired, smells like vacation and luxury.
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Exfoliating Body Treatment – clinical-grade smoothness for serious skin care lovers.
Herbivore Amethyst Exfoliating Body Polish – rich, nourishing, and perfect for post-sugar softness.
How Often Should You Exfoliate?
2–3 times a week is the sweet spot. More than that can irritate freshly treated skin; less than that can lead to buildup. And remember never exfoliate the same day as your wax or sugar appointment. Give your skin time to heal and then gently reintroduce exfoliation into your routine.



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