Exfoliation vs Over-Exfoliation: The Perfect Balance to Prevent Bumps on Your "Girl"

Have you ever tried to “get rid” of a hair-bump by exfoliating it to death? That’s a no, girl! 

Exfoliating your bikini area is an important part of keeping your skin healthy, as it can help make your skin softer and balanced. However, it’s just as important to make sure you’re not over-exfoliating.

Let me break it down for you…

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells and dirt/oil buildup, often by using a tool such as a brush, sponge, washcloth, scrub, or even an exfoliating soap bar. The removal of the dead skin and oil buildup allows your pores to open for hair regrowth, which helps prevent bumps and breakouts on the pubic area.

However, you can not “exfoliate away” a hair-bump. If you deal with hair-bump outbreaks on your pubic area, over-exfoliating can actually cause more bumps to form and lead to irritation and sensitivity. Read our article on How To Stop Ingrown Hair Bumps and Scarring in the Pubic Area to learn how to combat recurring outbreaks.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO OVER-EXFOLIATE?

There are two types of exfoliating methods: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliation removes dead skin cells through scrubbing, and chemical exfoliating uses acids to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells and the skin. Both can have amazing results when done correctly, but it’s important not to overdo it on either type!

Exfoliating every single day or multiple times a day, using harsh grains, or using acidic products are all ways you might be over-exfoliating. Products that market themselves as “daily” washes containing a high amount of chemicals, such as hydroxy acid or glycolic acid, can be too strong for the skin and cause more harm than good. These products can damage the pH balance of your skin and strip away its natural oils. 

If you’re using acids in your exfoliating routine, they should be introduced to your skin gradually-- not all at once. Start by using the product once or twice a week, and only at night. Products based with fruit enzymes are a safe alternative to the harsh chemicals used in many exfoliating products. 

You may be over-exfoliating if your skin has suddenly become extra-sensitive, dull, dry and flaky, or you find that you’re dealing with more breakouts. A basic, gentle exfoliation routine is the best way to find a healthy balance in your pubic grooming routine.

To keep from over-exfoliating, only exfoliate 1-2 times per week. Exfoliate 3 days before your bikini wax, but not on the day of the wax itself. Otherwise, your skin will be very sensitive and make the process a little more painful. And remember, moisturizing is an important part of the exfoliation process!

Also keep in mind that many forms of hair removal like waxing, shaving and depilatory creams in itself are exfoliating your skin because it’s removing the upper layer of skin. So there isn’t any need to exfoliate too close before or after hair removal. Give your skin a break to heal and recuperate.

Below is Happy Girl’s 4 Step process for exfoliating…

Step 1: 

Prep your skin by getting it nice and wet using warm water.

Step 2:

Find a tool that works best for you! Exfoliating brushes, sugar or salt scrubs, or Happy Girl’s Exfoliating Bar all work well for exfoliation. If you’re using a scrub or soap bar, make sure to stay away from synthetic fragrances; they often include chemicals that could potentially irritate your skin even more. 

Step 3: 

Gently move your brush or scrub in small, circular motions around your bikini area. Be careful not to exfoliate your inner labia or any part inside your vulva-- there’s no need to go that deep! Keep it on the outside, exfoliating around your inner thighs and around the area where hair grows. 

Step 4: 

Rinse your girl with warm water, then pat it dry. Apply a pH-balanced moisturizer (like a fragrance-free lotion) or Happy Girl’s Bush Oil to the area and gently rub it into the skin. 

With a balanced exfoliating routine, you’ll see less bumps and brighter skin. So grab a new scrub during your next Target run-- Lady V will thank you for it!

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The author.

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Allison Kindley is a Digital Media Production & Journalism student at Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida. She loves working with Team Happy Girl because she gets to inform others on feminine wellness, learn every day, write creatively, and empower women.