Exfoliation splits into two kinds, and choosing badly between them is the most common reason people end up with skin that stings.
Chemical uses an acid to loosen the bonds holding dead cells at the surface. It is even, it reaches into pores, and the strength is in the formula rather than in your hand — which is exactly why it is more predictable than scrubbing.
Physical uses particles and friction. It works on the very top layer, gives an immediate smooth feel, and its intensity depends entirely on how hard you press. On body skin that is fine. On facial skin it takes a light hand.
Once or twice a week is enough for most people, and more is not better — skin that is over-exfoliated looks shiny and tight rather than glowing, and stings when anything else goes on it. Do not stack a chemical exfoliant and a scrub in the same session. And an exfoliated face is more sun-sensitive, so sunscreen the following morning is not optional.
