Once or twice a week at most, and only with a gentle chemical exfoliant – not a physical scrub. Low-strength lactic acid (around 5 percent) is a good starting point for mature skin because it both exfoliates and provides mild hydration. Polyhydroxy acids like gluconolactone are even gentler and suit very sensitive skin. Cell turnover slows with age, which means dead skin cells linger and contribute to dullness – gentle exfoliation addresses this. But overuse accelerates the very barrier damage mature skin is already prone to. If your skin stings, stays red after a day, or feels persistently tight, pull back on frequency.
