Understanding Skin Cell Turnover

Our skin naturally renews itself through a process called cell turnover — where new, healthy cells replace older ones. But as we age, this process slows down:

• In your 20s: Skin cell turnover happens roughly every 28 days.
  
• In your 30s: It slows to around 35 days.
  
• In your 40s: It can take 45–50 days.
  
• In your 50s and beyond (especially post-menopause): Turnover may slow to 60 days or more.
  

That means dead skin cells sit on the surface longer, creating a barrier that makes skin look dull, textured, and uneven — and can even make skincare products less effective.

Why Exfoliation Matters

Regular exfoliation helps to remove these dead cells, boost cell renewal, and reveal the fresher, brighter skin beneath.
For most people, this becomes especially important from age 35 onwards, or sooner if you struggle with acne, pigmentation, or texture concerns.

Exfoliation can be done in two main ways:

• At-home exfoliation: using gentle chemical exfoliants.
  
• In-clinic exfoliation: such as professional chemical peels for deeper rejuvenation.
  

Choosing the Right At-Home Exfoliator

Your skin type determines which exfoliant is best for you. Here’s how to choose:

💗 Dry or Sensitive Skin

Opt for lactic acid or PHA (polyhydroxy acid) exfoliants.
These are hydrating and mild — ideal for delicate skin.

💚 Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

Go for salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that deeply unclogs pores and reduces breakouts.
 My favourite is Obagi 2% Salicylic Acid Pore Therapy — my patients achieve fantastic results and tolerate it well, thanks to its glycerin content, which helps to soothe and hydrate the skin.

💛 Normal, Dull, or 30+ Skin

If your main concern is dullness or uneven tone, try a glycolic acid exfoliator (5% or higher).
 I personally use the VI Derm Age-Defying Moisturiser with 10% Glycolic Acid, and I’ve seen a noticeable improvement in my own skin texture and radiance since incorporating it.
It also contains retinol, azelaic acid, and vitamin C, making it a powerful multitasker for smoother, brighter, more even skin.

Apply glycolic acid 3–4 times a week for best results.

The Importance of SPF When Exfoliating

When using exfoliating acids — whether at home or in clinic — your skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight.
 Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is essential to protect your new skin cells from UV damage, prevent pigmentation, and maintain your results. 
Think of SPF as your daily insurance policy for healthy, glowing skin.

Professional Exfoliation: Chemical Peels

For deeper resurfacing and more dramatic results, in-clinic chemical peels are an excellent option.

At My Cosmetic Doctor in Harborne, we offer:

• Superficial peels (similar to the Obagi Blue Peel Radiance) — these gently remove the outermost layer of skin, improving glow and texture with minimal downtime.
  
• Medium-depth peels — which penetrate deeper to target pigmentation, fine lines, and uneven tone for more transformative results.
  

Professional peels are tailored to your skin type and goals, providing a controlled exfoliation that stimulates fresh collagen and new, healthy skin cells.

How Often Should You Exfoliate?

Consistency is key — but so is balance.

• At home: 2–4 times a week, depending on your skin type, product type and product strength.
  
• In clinic: Every 2-6 months for optimal results and ongoing skin renewal.
  

Remember, over-exfoliation can damage the skin barrier, so professional advice is essential to find the right frequency and formula for your skin.

The Takeaway

Uneven skin texture doesn’t have to be permanent. With the right combination of at-home exfoliation and professional treatments, you can reveal brighter, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin.

At My Cosmetic Doctor, we create personalised exfoliation and peel plans for every patient — because everyone’s skin is unique.

Take the Next Step

If you’re struggling with uneven skin texture and would like a professional, supportive, and tailored approach, book a skincare consultation with us today. At My Cosmetic Doctor, we work with you to design a personalised treatment plan, guiding you every step of the way to calmer, healthier, more confident skin.

Skincare is a journey, but with expert care and the right treatments, significant improvements are possible.

👉 Book your skincare consultation today with My Cosmetic Doctor in Harborne, Birmingham – and take the first step towards your smoothest, most radiant skin ever.