To which layer of skin must exfoliation be limited?

Exfoliation should be limited to the stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the epidermis. This layer consists of dead skin cells that are constantly shed and replaced. The purpose of exfoliation is to remove these dead cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing the fresher, healthier skin underneath.

Exfoliating deeper layers, such as the dermis or inner epidermis, can lead to irritation, inflammation, and damage. The dermis contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves—structures that are crucial for skin integrity and function. Disruption in this layer could lead to more severe skin issues.

The granular layer, while still part of the epidermis, is situated underneath the stratum corneum and plays a role in keratinization. For effective skin care, it's important to limit exfoliation to the outermost layer to maintain skin health and prevent potential complications from deeper skin damage.