How to Improve Uneven Skin Texture

When it comes to buzzwords in beauty, skin tone, hyperpigmentation and wrinkles are at the top of the list. But, skin texture, which refers to your skin’s smoothness or roughness, likely isn’t the first phrase to come to mind. To get more information on what’s contributing to an uneven, bumpy or rough complexion and some tips on what we can do to improve our texture, we reached out to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Houshmand and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Terri Maffi. 

What Causes Uneven Skin Texture? 

“Uneven skin texture is commonly a result of excess dead skin cells that build up on the surface of the skin,” says Dr. Houshmand. “This can make areas of the skin feel rough to the touch and can also give the skin a dull appearance.” Other causes of uneven skin texture include excessive sun exposure, natural aging and smoking. When it comes to combating a rough-to-the-touch feel though, having the correct skin-care regimen is critical, says Dr. Housmand. Ahead, find her tips for preventing an uneven texture and maintaining smoothness.

How to Improve Your Skin Texture 

If you have uneven skin, there are few things you can incorporate into your skin-care routine to help. From exfoliation and peels to serums and lasers, sloughing away rough, dead skin cells can help rehab your skin’s texture. 

TIP #1: Exfoliate 

Dr. Houshmand says that proper exfoliation once a week can keep your skin feeling smooth because it removes the dead skin cells from the surface layer. “In my opinion, chemical exfoliants (like AHAs and BHAs), are a great option to target the areas that feel uneven.” That being said, she warns against over-exfoliating. “In this case less is more. Using scrubs that are too abrasive or scrubbing the skin too often can cause oil over-production and micro-tears in your skin, which will amplify the texture issues. Stick with formulas that use gentle ingredients, and make sure you only exfoliate once a week.” We recommend the SkinCeuticals Micro Exfoliating Scrub. 

TIP #2: Try Glycolic Acid Peels 

For a more intensive treatment for uneven skin texture, Dr. Houshmand recommends scheduling an appointment with your dermatologist for a glycolic acid peel. “In-office chemical peels can help reduce the visible signs of sun damaged skin and stimulate surface cell renewal,” says Dr. Houshmand. “The exfoliation removes dead cell layers to reduce the appearance of fine lines and evens out the texture and skin tone.” For an at-home treatment use glycolic acid pads, like the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Bright Reveal Brightening Daily Peel Pads, which work to reveal brighter looking skin, an even tone and a reduced appearance of wrinkles. 

TIP #3: Use Sunscreen

There are tons of reasons why you should apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, and helping to keep skin texture issues at bay is one of them. Dr. Houshmand notes that UV rays can lead to uneven skin texture as well as premature signs of skin aging. Before stepping outside, apply broad-spectrum SPF and reapply at least every two hours. For an even better line of protection, take additional measures such as wearing protective clothing and seeking shade.

TIP #4: Incorporate a Vitamin C Serum

According to Dr. Houshmand, vitamin C is a game-changer for bright and even skin. Adding this ingredient to your routine is easy; there are tons of creams and serums formulated with vitamin C. One of our personal favorites is SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, which boasts a combination of antioxidants like vitamin C and ferulic acid. 

TIP #5: Laser Resurfacing Treatments 

If you’ve tried all of the above, but haven’t seen the results you were hoping for, talk to your dermatologist about laser resurfacing treatments. “Ablative laser evaporates the epidermis and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as stimulates collagen,” says Dr. Maffi. “Increased collagen can thicken the dermis and improve the texture of your skin from the inside out.” 

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