Textured skin is one of the most common skincare complaints. Whether caused by acne, dryness, clogged pores, or past sun damage, those uneven patches, bumps, or rough spots can make even the best skincare routine feel ineffective. The good news? With a clear strategy and consistent care, smoother, healthier-looking skin is achievable.

Here are expert-backed tips to help refine texture and bring back that baby-soft feeling—no overcomplicated routines or unrealistic promises.

1. Exfoliate the Right Way

Dead skin cells build up on the surface and can cause dullness and bumps. A smart exfoliation strategy can help reveal newer, smoother skin underneath.

• Chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid) help dissolve debris without physically scrubbing the skin.

• Physical exfoliants like gentle scrubs can be effective, but should be used sparingly to avoid irritation.

Tip: Don’t overdo it—2 to 3 times per week is enough for most skin types.

2. Hydration Is Key

Dry, dehydrated skin often exaggerates rough patches and flakiness. Keep your skin barrier strong by locking in moisture:

• Use a gentle hydrating cleanser that won’t strip the skin.

• Layer a hyaluronic acid serum under a richer moisturizer to keep hydration levels balanced.

Hydrated skin looks smoother and feels softer—period.

3. Support Cell Turnover with Retinoids

Retinoids (including over-the-counter retinol) are gold when it comes to smoothing out uneven skin texture. They promote faster cell turnover, which helps fade rough spots, clear clogged pores, and soften fine lines.

Start slow—2–3 nights a week—and build up tolerance gradually. Be sure to pair with sunscreen during the day, as retinoids can make skin more sensitive to UV.

4. Don’t Skip SPF

Sun exposure can thicken skin, increase texture, and undo all your hard work. Daily SPF is a must—rain or shine.

Look for lightweight formulas that won’t clog pores but still offer full protection. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often a good fit for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

5. Use Targeted Treatments

Adding specific ingredients to your routine can make a difference, depending on the type of texture:

• Niacinamide helps refine pores and regulate oil.

• Azelaic acid calms inflammation and improves tone and texture.

• Peptides support skin firmness and smoothness over time.

Consistency matters—give products at least 4–6 weeks to show visible changes.

6. Keep It Clean (But Not Stripped)

Harsh soaps and stripping cleansers can worsen texture by drying out or irritating the skin. Instead, choose products made with skin-loving, plant-based ingredients that support balance.

A good place to start? The Good Soap offers handmade soaps that are free from harsh chemicals and packed with natural oils to cleanse gently without disrupting your skin barrier. It’s a small switch that can make a noticeable difference in how your skin feels and reacts.

7. Hands Off

Picking, scrubbing, or over-touching textured skin can lead to inflammation, scarring, and more bumps. Keep your hands off your face as much as possible, and use a clean towel or paper towel to pat your face dry instead of rubbing.

Let the skincare do the work—gentle consistency always wins over aggressive tactics.

8. Stay Consistent with Your Routine

The best results come from routines you can stick to. Stick with simple steps that your skin tolerates well, and give it time. Skin texture often improves gradually—and the results last when your routine is sustainable.

One or more of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a slight commission if you click through and make a purchase. Each of these products is chosen by a trusted member of our team.