As much as we wish to wake up with a smooth complexion every single day, for many of us, that’s not the case. Acne, rough patches, clogged pores, keratosis pilaris—these can all contribute to an uneven skin texture. Don’t worry, we’re here, along with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Swetha Kandula, MD, to smooth things over. Read on as we break down the basics of skin texture and how to change it. 

WHAT IS SKIN TEXTURE?

Skin texture can mean different things to different complexions. Maybe you feel bumps while cleansing your face, or perhaps you’re starting to notice dry patches. Either way, the definition of “skin texture” all boils down to how skin’s surface feels and looks.

According to Dr. Kandula, two genetic factors affect texture: our age and skin type. “Over some time, the ability for [the skin] to hold onto moisture goes down, which can cause a shift in texture,” says Dr. Kandula. And let’s not forget about the fine lines, crepey skin, and other changes that occur as we grow older.

If your skin type is acne-prone, dry, or experiences conditions like keratosis pilaris, you may notice textural changes, too. Our Buff It Out AHA Exfoliating Body Scrub tackles texture concerns from the neck down, whether you’re treating KP bumps or body acne.

CAN YOU CHANGE YOUR SKIN TEXTURE?

While you can’t change your age or skin type (which is determined by genetics), you also aren’t doomed to have bumpy skin for good. A combination of exfoliation and moisturization can help address uneven texture for all skin types and ages. For instant smoothness, reach for the At-Home Dermaplaning Tool. It scrapes away dead skin cells and peach fuzz from the skin's surface. Follow up with a few drops of our Antioxidant Oil-Serum for a glowing, silky finish.

HOW TO IMPROVE SKIN TEXTURE

Addressing bumps, uneven patches, or blemishes all comes down to a targeted and consistent skincare routine. Incorporate the following ingredients and practices into your regimen for a baby-soft complexion:

EXFOLIATION
Whether you’re Team Physical, Team Chemical, or a fan of both, aim to exfoliate 1-3x per week. Regular exfoliation is important for dislodging old, dead cells from skin’s surface and pores—a major contributor to uneven texture. 

While we don’t recommend grabbing a scrub formulated with plastic microbeads, which are both harsh on the skin and the planet, we do suggest microcrystalline. Found in Day Maker, it’s a 100% plant-based, biodegradable ingredient that gently sloughs away dull skin cells and debris without irritating the skin (seriously, it’s Sensitive Skin-Approved).

For a dose of chemical exfoliation, soak a reusable cotton pad with our Daily Brightening Solution and sweep across the skin post-cleanse. The toner uses a four-acid complex (kojic, glycolic, azelaic, and lactic acid) to minimize the appearance of pores and soften the skin. Dr. Kandula also recommends an AHA-BHA complex, like what’s found in our Instant Resurfacing Mask, for a more intensive exfoliation. 

VITAMIN C
Most think of brightening tone and treating dark spots when reaching for vitamin C skincare, but don’t sleep on its benefits for softening texture, too. This antioxidant helps stimulate collagen synthesis, the building blocks of a strong, plump complexion. Our Daily Brightening Moisturizer uses two types of stabilized vitamin C to brighten, firm, and soften skin—all at the same time.

RETINOL
Retinol’s greatest asset is its ability to speed up cellular turnover rate, the process of shedding old skin cells and pushing fresh ones to skin’s surface. This helps “minimize pore size, unclog pores, and rejuvenate the skin,” Dr. Kandula adds. It also completely reforms skin texture, softening fine lines and crepiness for a more even, youthful-looking appearance.

We recommend pairing both the Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum and Gentle Retinol Body Lotion for head-to-toe smoothness.

HYDRATION
Actives like vitamin C and retinol can change skin over time, but to immediately smooth textured skin, make sure you’re staying hydrated. The Hydrating Hyaluronic Serum uses polyglutamic acid (which is 4x more hydrating than hyaluronic acid alone) to pull moisture from the air and draw it into the skin’s surface and the layers beneath. This replenishes skin’s hydration levels and strengthens its barrier function for a bouncy, soft texture. 

WHEN CAN YOU EXPECT TO SEE RESULTS?

How can you tell if your texture is changing? Skin will feel smooth to the touch, with fewer rough patches, ridges, and bumps. You may also notice makeup settles better, especially if you utilize a dermaplaner.

It can take time to see results from a new skincare routine so be consistent and stay patient. Most complexions will feel noticeably smooth immediately after exfoliating and hydrating. More intensive texture repair, such as combating fine lines and hormonal acne, can take six to eight weeks, according to Dr. Kandula.

Shop products for softening skin texture below.