I started using skin serums a little late in life. I’ve always been a skincare minimalist, so there was a long period when I could just wash my face, slap on some moisturizer/sunscreen, and head out the door. Things began changing in my late twenties, when I found that my skin required something extra. Whether I needed some extra hydration or brightening power, serums soon became a staple in my routine.

My skin loves exfoliation. Be it chemical or physical, nothing makes my skin happier than getting rid of those dull surface cells and revealing the fresh, new skin underneath. And while I have fallen victim to the occasional bout of over-exfoliation and may have used some controversial products (Hello, St. Ives Apricot Scrub), I don’t think it’s possible to overemphasize the benefits of a good exfoliator.