If you’ve ever had to deal with rough, bumpy, or dry skin, you know firsthand how frustrating it can be. When a skin problem feels out of control, it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what the problem is and how to deal with it. In search of the answer, we asked estheticians and dermatologists for tips on how to improve skin texture.
There are so many things that can cause rough skin texture that it can be confusing trying to figure out the best way to fix it. Diet, genetics, medications, aging, hormones, and sun damage can all lead to changes in skin texture.
featured image Riley Reed.
Your Expert-Approved Guide to Smooth Skin
Luckily, there are some great solutions out-of-the-box, and options continue to improve in search of effective ways to improve skin texture. We spoke with Dr. Parvane Rafaeloff, a board-certified dermatologist. Le Jolie Medi Spa and esthetician Casey Boone of Glow Skin Care LA Learn about the causes of skin problems and how to deal with them.
Keep reading for insights that can help you improve your skin texture and the underlying issues that cause the problem.
Causes of poor skin texture
Dr. Raphaeloff points out that poor skin texture is often caused by dry skin, buildup of dead skin cells, nutritional issues, dust and dirt, and lack of exfoliation.
Environmental and genetic factors
Both Dr. Raphaeloff and Dr. Boone say that while genetics play a large role in the appearance of our skin, environmental factors also play a role. You’re not in a prison of skin texture problems, even if it seems like you’re having a skin texture problem in your family. They pointed to stress, diet, lack of sleep, weather, sun exposure, hormones, and even possibly using the wrong skincare products as reasons for poor skin texture. The good news is that you can use what your mother gave you to improve the texture of your skin.
Relationship between food and texture
As we all know, what we wear inside affects our appearance. Both Mr. Boone and Dr. Raphaeloff mentioned the importance of a balanced diet rich in colorful vegetables and many nutrients to address all kinds of skin problems, including skin texture. Lean protein, quality amino acids, fiber and healthy oils all contribute to glowing, smooth skin. For even more insight and tips, check out our nutritionist-designed meal plan to rejuvenate your skin.
11 Tips to Improve Skin Texture
1. Use Retinol
The effectiveness of retinol cannot be denied. This vitamin A derivative is primarily used to treat anti-aging ailments, but regular use can make a big difference in skin texture, Boone tells us. If you’re ready for the big time, ask your dermatologist for a prescription-strength cream. I started using it last year to help with my seasonal skin issues and there is no going back. Not ready for a serious treatment at the office yet? Drugstores sell a plethora of retinol creams of varying strengths.
2. Adjust your diet
Eating plenty of skin-friendly superfoods can do wonders for your skin. And don’t forget to drink lots of water! It is the key to increasing the moisture content of the skin. These are some of the best foods to eat to improve your skin texture.
- carrot
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula)
- cruciferous vegetables
- pumpkin
- sweet potato
- salmon
- chia seeds
- avocado
3. Use SPF
It’s as if we need another reason to wear sunscreen, even on gray days. SPF is probably the most important part of his at-home skin care routine. Dr. Rafaeloff and Dr. Boone recommend using sunscreen daily to not only protect your skin from UV rays, but to improve the texture of your skin. Blemishes and damaged skin can not only affect your visible appearance, but can also make your skin feel drier and rougher. Banish those concerns with a good broad-spectrum sunscreen and you’re good to go.
4. Reduce stress
Easier said than done, both our experts noted that stress and trauma can negatively affect the texture and appearance of your skin. Do your best to get eight hours of sleep, fire up your meditation app, and take time to feed yourself. It is good for your skin as well as your mental health.
5. Exfoliate regularly
Boone recommends exfoliating one to three times a week for maximum results. Her favorite exfoliation method is enzyme mask and exfoliating cleanser. But she was quick to remind me that it’s important not to over exfoliate as it can actually make her skin texture worse. When your skin’s natural moisture barrier is compromised by over-exfoliating, it can lead to problems like breakouts and hives. Start incorporating it into your routine gradually and see how your skin reacts before leveling up.
6. Hydrodermabrasion Facial
If you feel like you’ve already tried all of the above, step up with a hydrodermabrasion facial that exfoliates the top layer of dead, dry skin. Boone likes the treatment because it uses vacuum extraction, exfoliation, hydration, and serum infusions to resurface the skin. She suggests using this type of service as routine maintenance she uses every 4-8 weeks. Costs range from $100 to $300, depending on the provider.
7. Double cleansing
This 2-step cleansing routine ensures that makeup, dirt and grime are removed. Use a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin and cause breakouts or other texture issues. Remove makeup and dirt with a cleansing oil or balm, then gently buff with an exfoliating cleanser to brighten skin.
8. Chemical peel
Dr. Rafaeloff says you can’t go wrong with a chemical peel. With so many different strength options, it’s easy to find an effective peel with virtually no downtime.I recently had a light chemical peel in my neighborhood. Jecht I was shocked at how quickly the effect lasted in New York City. For the next two full months, my skin was glowing and smooth. I’ve been hooked all my life.
9. Morpheus 8
Another good option for resurfacing is the Morpheus8 treatment, according to Dr. Raphaeloff. This is a microneedle device that uses radio frequency energy to reshape and contour the face. A fractional treatment that penetrates deep into the skin to condition and tighten the surface of the skin. There will be some discomfort during this treatment and downtime will vary from patient to patient, but you can expect it to take about 2-3 days and up to 2 weeks for him to see the full effect. Generally, one treatment costs about $1300.
10. Microneedling
If you want to invest in effective treatments for your skin texture, acne scars, skin tone, and fine lines, Dr. Raphaeloff recommends looking into microneedling. This procedure involves tiny needles used to create controlled micro-blemishes in the skin to promote collagen production and elastin. Treatment usually starts at about $600, depending on the provider.
11.PRP microneedling
PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. (You’ve probably seen it called “Vampire Facial”.) This type of microneedling involves taking a blood sample, isolating the PRP from the blood, and using it during a microneedling service. Plasma is essential for the healing of wounds and injuries, so helping the skin tissue to repair itself can increase the effectiveness of the treatment. PRP microneedles cost up to $1,000, so it’s definitely an investment.
Best product to improve skin texture
All of our products are carefully curated by our editors to always give you an honest opinion, whether it’s a gift or a purchase for yourself. When you purchase something through our links, we may earn a small commission for free.
Cosmedix Pure Enzyme
Boone recommends this nourishing and gently exfoliating mask to buff away dull skin cells and impurities that clog pores. Made with cranberry enzymes and lactic acid to leave skin soft, plump and smooth.
olga lorencin skin care red carpet facial in box
Long considered a beauty secret for many Hollywood stars, this professional peel will leave your skin glowing in just minutes. Boone recommends using it any time you need a little boost or want your skin to feel refreshed all the time.
Elemis Resurfacing Peel Pad
Boone recommends these dual-action pads to reduce uneven skin texture, pores, and blackheads. Very convenient and easy to use, it removes dead cells and gently exfoliates the skin for brighter, smoother skin.
peter thomas roth pumpkin enzyme mask
This 3-in-1 skin resurfacing mask exfoliates, exfoliates and visibly polishes skin with a powerful combination of ingredients. Pumpkin Enzyme is an amazing exfoliant that smooths the surface of the skin, AHAs chemically exfoliate the skin to make it look more radiant, aluminum oxide crystals polish the surface of the skin and smooth out any overall unevenness. Improve texture. Bump, go away!
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator
If you prefer physical exfoliants to chemical exfoliants, check out this gentle rice-based powder. Visibly brightens, improves skin texture and clears pores. This exfoliant hydrates and reduces redness while removing excess oil. Being able to use it every day is a big plus. Let me tell you a little secret. I’ve been giving bottles of this to my beauty product shy brothers and telling them to use it as a face wash in the shower and their skin has never looked better. It works seriously.
Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream
This effective retinol cream tackles a variety of textural issues along with blemishes, wrinkles, dryness and dullness. A blend of retinol, peptides and vitamin F. Retinol improves the look and feel of uneven skin tone and texture while fighting damage. Peptides help tighten and strengthen the skin and enhance the effects of retinol. The fatty acids found in vitamin F help improve skin texture, increase flexibility, and soothe the skin.
Sunday Riley CEO 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Dr. Rafaeloff recommended using Vitamin C to improve skin texture. This vitamin C serum is a cult favorite for good reason. Absorbed quickly into the skin, it instantly brightens, moisturizes and firms the skin. It also fortifies with powerful antioxidants to fight free radical damage and reduce the appearance of blemishes and fine lines over time.
Nature’s Bounty Zinc Supplement
Along with eating nutrient-dense vegetables and using products rich in skin-healthy vitamins and minerals, Dr. Raphaeloff also mentioned the importance of zinc in your diet. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps with skin problems such as acne, rosacea and eczema. Add a little zinc to your vitamin routine for even more toned skin.
Super goop!invisible sunscreen
Our experts both stress the importance of sunscreen, and this is one of our favorite everyday options. It’s lightweight, easily absorbed into the skin, and not only does it look beautiful, it protects you from the sun’s harmful rays, but it also enriches your skin with whitening and protective ingredients.
Sunday Riley Good Jeans All-in-One AHA Lactobacillus Treatment
Good Genes is one of those products that will give you visible results in an amazing amount of time. After just a few days of trying it, I started getting compliments on how my skin looked brighter, smoother, and evened out. The powerful lactic acid formula is one of the best to apply to your skin and is worth every penny. A serum that targets hyperpigmentation, texture problems, pores, and more. Don’t take my word for it. Clinically proven to be effective.
This post was originally published on June 22, 2021 and has since been updated.
