“Texture is best assessed by the feel of the skin,” says board-certified dermatologist Loretta Ciraldo, M.D., FAAD. “If you close your eyes and run your fingers lightly over your skin and feel some resistance, this typically means you are losing your healthy, smooth skin texture.” She also notes that visually, you may even see flaking, peeling, or scaling. If you’re living with dry or acne-prone skin, chances are uneven texture is top of your list when it comes to skin qualms. But you’re not alone. Even though certain skin types are more susceptible to texture concerns, anyone can experience uneven texture. In fact, sun exposure is one of the leading causes of uneven skin texture. Here’s why: When your skin is exposed to the sun without protection, the body’s natural collagen production is compromised, and this can lead to a variety of texture issues with the skin. This can show up as tiny bumps, rough patches, oversized pores, and even dark spots that have a rough texture on the surface, aka hyperpigmentation. One study, focusing on Caucasian skin, found that UV exposure was responsible for 80% of visible facial aging signs1 including wrinkles, skin texture, pigmentation, and sagging of tissues. Bottom line: Sunscreen is nonnegotiable. And with better collagen production comes smoother skin overall. Your skin needs collagen to remain healthy, plump, and glowing. Without collagen, it’ll sag, look dull, and encourage premature aging. “AHAs work to improve skin by removing the top layers of the skin through weakening the lipids that bond them together, thus removing dull and dead skin cells and revealing healthy skin cells,” says board-certified dermatologist Dendy Engelman, M.D. The most popular of the AHA family are glycolic acid and lactic acid. “Glycolic acid, derived from sugar cane, is the smallest acid in size, meaning the molecule can get deep into the skin,” says Engelman. This makes it a go-to for breaking down and removing dead skin cells and particles. It also boosts collagen and elastin production. As for lactic acid, Engelman says it’s a good option for those with sensitive skin. It’s derived from sour milk and works to improve discoloration and age spots. And if you’re a retinol newbie or have sensitive skin, the key is starting with a gentler formula that won’t irritate. Engelman says skin does become tolerant to the initial effects of retinols over time, so sensitive skin can be trained to tolerate this vitamin A derivative. But it is important to know that retinol should not be used if you are pregnant. Engelman adds that even though these pads can be useful for sloughing off dead skin, it’s important not to overuse them. “I have patients who start using exfoliating pads, and the results after the first use are so amazing, they use it every day,” she says. “By day four, they come to me with dry, irritated skin.” Engelman suggests starting with every other day only once a day and work up to being able to use more frequently if needed.
