Acid Exfoliation Frequency: How to Build Rest Days Into Your Week

Chemical exfoliation can help improve dullness, uneven skin texture and clogged pores. Ingredients such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid and salicylic acid appear in everything from face washes and toners to serums and pre-soaked exfoliating pads.

But one of the most common skincare mistakes is assuming that more frequent exfoliation automatically produces better results.

Someone might begin with a glycolic acid treatment once a week, notice smoother skin and decide to use it every night. Soon, their skin begins to feel tight, their moisturizer stings and previously comfortable products become irritating.

The problem may not be the exfoliating ingredient itself. It may be the frequency of use, the strength of the product or its interaction with the rest of the skincare routine.

Effective exfoliation is about finding a sustainable frequency—not using acids as often as possible.

Rest days can help simplify your skincare routine, limit cumulative irritation and make it easier to recognize whether a product actually suits your skin.

This Physical Glow guide explains how to plan exfoliation frequency, choose appropriate rest days, recognize signs of overuse and adjust your routine for different skin types.

1. What Is Chemical Exfoliation?

Chemical exfoliation uses ingredients that encourage the shedding of surface skin cells or affect processes associated with skin-cell buildup.

Unlike physical exfoliation, which relies on mechanical friction from scrubs or tools, chemical exfoliation uses substances that act on the skin through their formulation and chemical properties.

The most common exfoliating ingredient groups are alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and polyhydroxy acids.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Common AHAs include:

• Glycolic acid.
• Lactic acid.
• Mandelic acid.

AHAs are generally used to address the appearance of surface texture, dullness and some forms of uneven pigmentation.

Their effectiveness and irritation potential depend on concentration, formulation pH, vehicle, application frequency and individual skin tolerance.

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)

Salicylic acid is the best-known BHA in everyday skincare.

It is commonly used in acne-focused products because it can help address clogged pores and excess buildup within follicles.

However, it can also cause dryness or irritation.

Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs)

PHAs include ingredients such as gluconolactone and lactobionic acid.

They are often marketed as gentler alternatives to traditional AHAs.

Some people tolerate them well, but this does not mean every PHA product is suitable for daily use or completely free from irritation.

Why Ingredient Category Is Not Enough

Two products containing glycolic acid may behave differently.

A rinse-off cleanser with glycolic acid is not equivalent to a concentrated leave-on peeling solution.

Even products with the same stated percentage may differ because of pH and formulation.

Always consider the complete product and its directions, not simply the acid name.

2. What Determines How Often You Should Exfoliate?

There is no scientifically established weekly exfoliation schedule that works best for everyone.

Your appropriate frequency depends on several factors.

Factor	Why it matters
Skin sensitivity	Sensitive skin may tolerate fewer applications
Product concentration	Stronger formulations may require less frequent use
Formulation pH	Influences the activity of certain acids
Leave-on vs rinse-off	Contact time and exposure differ
Other skincare actives	Retinoids and acne treatments may increase irritation
Existing skin conditions	Eczema, rosacea and other conditions may affect suitability
Previous tolerance	A familiar product may be easier to manage than a new one
Manufacturer instructions	Provide product-specific frequency and safety guidance

A product advertised as suitable for everyday use is not necessarily appropriate for every user.

Likewise, occasional exfoliation is not automatically ineffective.

The aim is to use the least aggressive routine that delivers a meaningful benefit without repeated irritation.

3. Why Rest Days Matter

A rest day is simply a day when you do not use your exfoliating treatment.

It does not necessarily mean avoiding all skincare.

You can continue with ordinary cleansing, moisturizing and sunscreen.

Rest Days Help Limit Cumulative Irritation

Chemical exfoliants can produce irritation, especially when used frequently or combined with other potentially irritating ingredients.

Giving your skin time without another exfoliating application may improve comfort and reduce unnecessary exposure.

They Make Reactions Easier to Identify

Imagine introducing glycolic acid, salicylic acid and a retinoid during the same week.

If redness develops, it may be difficult to determine which product contributed.

A simpler routine with spaced applications makes it easier to assess tolerance.

They Discourage Unnecessary Product Layering

Many people own several treatments that overlap in their functions.

A rest-day schedule reduces the temptation to apply something active every evening.

They Support a More Sustainable Routine

A routine that repeatedly causes tightness or flaking is difficult to maintain.

Using an exfoliant less frequently may be more practical than repeatedly stopping and restarting after irritation develops.

Rest days are a planning tool, not a requirement to follow a fixed calendar regardless of how your skin feels.

4. How Often Should Beginners Use Exfoliating Acids?

When first introducing a chemical exfoliant, a conservative approach is generally sensible.

For some low-strength, leave-on exfoliating products, starting once weekly and assessing tolerance before increasing frequency can be a reasonable example.

Some people may eventually tolerate two or more applications weekly.

Others may find occasional use sufficient, while some products are intended for different schedules altogether.

The manufacturer’s instructions and any clinical recommendations take priority.

Example Beginner Approach

A cautious introduction to a suitable leave-on exfoliant

1. Choose one exfoliating productAvoid introducing multiple acids at the same time.
2. Check the labelConfirm the recommended frequency, application method and whether it must be rinsed off.
3. Begin conservativelyFor an appropriate mild product, consider starting with a single weekly application if consistent with the label.
4. Observe your skin over subsequent daysLook for persistent tightness, dryness, stinging or redness.
5. Increase only when appropriateDo not increase frequency simply because you feel no tingling.
6. Stop if significant irritation occursResume only after recovery and reassessment of suitability.

This is an illustrative approach, not a dosing recommendation for all acid products. High-strength peels and prescription treatments require their own directions.

5. A Practical Weekly Exfoliation Calendar

A calendar can help you avoid accidentally using exfoliating products too frequently.

For someone new to a mild leave-on exfoliant, a routine might look like this:

Day	Evening skincare	Priority
Monday	Gentle cleanser, exfoliant if appropriate, moisturizer	Exfoliation
Tuesday	Gentle cleanser and moisturizer	Rest
Wednesday	Gentle cleanser and moisturizer	Rest
Thursday	Gentle cleanser and moisturizer	Rest
Friday	Gentle cleanser and moisturizer	Rest
Saturday	Gentle cleanser and moisturizer	Rest
Sunday	Gentle cleanser and moisturizer	Review skin tolerance

If the product is suitable for more frequent use and the skin consistently tolerates it, the schedule may be adjusted.

However, there is no obligation to increase frequency.

What Counts as a Rest Day?

A rest day usually means not applying the exfoliating product.

It may also be sensible to temporarily avoid additional exfoliating treatments when you are evaluating tolerance.

Your routine can still include:

• Gentle cleansing.
• A suitable moisturizer.
• Broad-spectrum sunscreen.
• Other well-tolerated treatments as clinically appropriate.

If a prescribed medication is part of your skincare routine, do not independently stop or modify it simply to create an exfoliation calendar.

6. Should You Exfoliate Every Day?

Daily exfoliation is not universally necessary.

Some products are formulated for frequent use, but the suitability of daily use depends on the formulation and individual circumstances.

For example, a mild cleanser containing a small amount of an exfoliating ingredient may have a very different exposure profile from a concentrated leave-on acid treatment.

When Daily Exfoliation May Be Excessive

Be cautious if you notice:

• Increasing tightness.
• Persistent redness.
• Peeling.
• Burning during application.
• Stinging from your regular moisturizer.
• Greater sensitivity to other products.

These symptoms may suggest that the routine is too irritating.

Does Daily Exfoliation Give Faster Results?

Not necessarily.

Increasing frequency may produce more irritation without a corresponding improvement in the concern being treated.

For pigmentation-prone skin, irritation can be particularly counterproductive because inflammation may contribute to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Consistency at an appropriate frequency is more important than maximum frequency.

7. Exfoliation Frequency for Oily Skin

People with oily skin may be attracted to frequent exfoliation because acids can help manage certain forms of buildup and congestion.

However, oil production does not mean the skin can tolerate unlimited exfoliation.

What Oily Skin May Benefit From

Depending on the concern, an appropriately formulated salicylic acid product may be useful for clogged pores.

AHAs may also be considered for surface texture.

But the choice of product and frequency should reflect the main problem.

Avoid Treating Every Shine as a Problem

Normal sebum production is part of skin function.

Exfoliating repeatedly to eliminate all facial oil is not a realistic or necessary goal.

A Practical Approach

Start with one suitable treatment rather than stacking several acne-focused products.

Monitor skin comfort over time.

If you use benzoyl peroxide, adapalene or other acne treatments, consider the combined potential for irritation before adding an acid exfoliant.

For persistent acne, a dermatologist can help establish an appropriate treatment plan.

8. Exfoliation Frequency for Dry Skin

Dry skin may be more vulnerable to discomfort from frequent exfoliation.

However, dry skin can also develop roughness and visible surface flaking.

This creates an important distinction.

Not every dry patch needs to be exfoliated. Sometimes it needs better moisturization or treatment of an underlying condition.

When Exfoliation May Be Appropriate

A carefully chosen mild exfoliant may help selected people address rough surface texture.

However, it should not be used on significantly cracked or inflamed skin.

When Moisturizing Is the Better Priority

If your skin feels consistently tight, itchy or uncomfortable, focus first on gentle cleansing and adequate moisturization.

Adding an acid to already irritated skin may worsen the problem.

Should You Exfoliate Visible Flakes?

Do not automatically scrub or peel away flakes.

They may result from dryness, irritation, eczema or other conditions.

Persistent flaking deserves assessment rather than increasingly aggressive exfoliation.

9. Exfoliation Frequency for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin requires individualized decisions.

Some people can tolerate a mild acid product occasionally.

Others may find that chemical exfoliation adds little benefit and produces repeated discomfort.

Start With the Main Skin Concern

Ask whether exfoliation is necessary at all.

If your skin is comfortable and your main concerns are dryness or sensitivity, a gentle routine may be more appropriate.

Consider Formula Complexity

A product marketed as gentle may still contain:

• Multiple exfoliating acids.
• Fragrance.
• Other active ingredients.
• Textured application pads.

These features can influence tolerability.

What About PHAs?

PHAs may be better tolerated by some people, but they are not universally safe for irritated or reactive skin.

Patch testing and cautious introduction can be helpful, although patch testing cannot guarantee long-term facial tolerance.

If you have rosacea, eczema or recurring dermatitis, seek individualized advice before introducing exfoliating acids.

10. Can You Use AHA and BHA in the Same Week?

It may be possible, but using both is not automatically necessary.

AHAs and BHAs are often chosen for somewhat different skincare purposes.

For example:

• AHA products may be selected for surface texture and dullness.
• Salicylic acid products may be selected for clogged pores and acne-related concerns.

Do You Need Both?

Not necessarily.

If one product already addresses your main concern, adding another may increase complexity without a clear benefit.

What About Combination Exfoliants?

Some formulations contain both AHAs and salicylic acid.

These should be treated as a single exfoliating treatment with the manufacturer’s directions, not as permission to add separate acids on top.

Alternating Nights

Some experienced users alternate different treatment types.

However, alternating does not automatically prevent irritation.

Your skin’s total exposure and tolerance still matter.

11. Can You Use Exfoliating Acids and Retinol in the Same Week?

Retinoids and chemical exfoliants can both cause dryness and irritation.

Some people use them successfully in structured routines, but introducing both together without guidance can make tolerance difficult to assess.

Why Scheduling Matters

If you use a retinoid on several evenings each week, adding acid exfoliation may increase cumulative irritation.

A rest-day plan can help avoid unnecessary overlap.

Does That Mean You Must Alternate?

Not universally.

The appropriate schedule depends on the specific retinoid, exfoliant, skin condition and medical advice.

Prescription retinoids should be used according to the prescriber’s directions.

What If You’re New to Retinol?

Consider establishing tolerance to one treatment before introducing another potentially irritating active.

If you already experience dryness or peeling from a retinoid, additional exfoliation may not be appropriate.

12. Are Exfoliating Cleansers Different From Leave-On Acids?

Yes.

This difference matters when designing a weekly routine.

Rinse-Off Exfoliating Cleansers

These products are applied for a relatively short period and then rinsed off.

Their effects depend on the specific formula and usage instructions.

Leave-On Toners and Serums

These remain in contact with the skin after application.

Depending on the formulation, they may produce more sustained exposure to the exfoliating ingredient.

High-Strength Peeling Treatments

Concentrated peels may have substantially different safety requirements.

Do not assume a strong peeling product can be used as frequently as a mild cleanser.

Product format	Typical consideration
Acid-containing cleanser	Rinse-off exposure; consider other actives
Exfoliating toner	Check acid concentration, pH and intended frequency
Exfoliating serum	Often concentrated and leave-on
Exfoliating pad	Formula plus possible friction from wiping
Peeling solution	May require strict use limits and additional precautions

A product’s exact directions are more important than its category name.

13. How Do You Know If You’re Over-Exfoliating?

Over-exfoliation is not a precise medical diagnosis, but the term commonly describes irritation associated with excessive exfoliating treatment.

Common Warning Signs

• Persistent redness.
• Burning or stinging.
• Increasing dryness.
• Rough or uncomfortable patches.
• Flaking accompanied by irritation.
• Unexpected sensitivity to ordinary skincare.
• Skin that feels excessively tight after cleansing.

What About Breakouts?

Breakouts after using an exfoliant can have multiple causes.

They may reflect ordinary acne fluctuations, irritation or a reaction to the formulation.

Do not assume that every breakout is beneficial purging.

When to Stop

Discontinue the suspected exfoliant if your skin becomes significantly irritated.

If there is blistering, marked swelling, severe pain or possible chemical injury, seek prompt medical evaluation.

14. What Should You Do During an Exfoliation Break?

A rest period should prioritize comfort rather than adding more treatments.

Gentle Cleansing

Use a suitable mild cleanser when needed.

Avoid aggressive scrubbing.

Moisturization

Apply a well-tolerated moisturizer.

Products containing humectants, emollients and moisture-retaining ingredients may help improve comfort.

Examples include glycerin, ceramides, dimethicone and petrolatum, depending on the formulation.

Sun Protection

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen and other sun-protective measures.

This is especially important when using certain AHAs, which may increase susceptibility to sunburn.

Reduce Unnecessary Irritants

If your skin is already irritated, temporarily avoid introducing new exfoliating acids, abrasive scrubs or other potentially irritating cosmetic treatments.

Do not discontinue medically prescribed products without appropriate guidance.

Avoid Picking Flaking Skin

Pulling away dry or peeling skin can worsen irritation.

Allow the skin to recover while maintaining gentle care.

15. How Long Should You Rest Between Exfoliation Sessions?

There is no universal recovery interval.

Someone using a mild exfoliant with comfortable results may not need the same schedule as someone who develops irritation after each application.

If Your Skin Is Comfortable

Follow the product’s recommended frequency and your established tolerance.

If You Have Mild Dryness

You may need to reduce use or pause while reassessing the routine.

If You Have Persistent Irritation

Discontinue the product until the skin has recovered.

Do not restart on a fixed date merely because the calendar says it is time to exfoliate.

If Symptoms Are Severe

Seek medical guidance rather than experimenting with additional products.

Your skin’s response should determine whether the next treatment is appropriate—not an inflexible weekly target.

16. A Customizable Weekly Exfoliation Planner

The planner below helps illustrate how exfoliation days and rest days can be distributed across a week.

It does not determine the medically appropriate frequency for an individual product.

Example weekly exfoliation scheduleNo exfoliation this weekOne sessionTwo sessionsThree sessions

Mon

Acid

Tue

Rest

Wed

Rest

Thu

Rest

Fri

Rest

Sat

Rest

Sun

Rest

1 example exfoliation session and 6 rest days.This calendar is illustrative only. Three weekly sessions may be excessive for some products or skin types. Follow the product label and professional advice; stop exfoliating if irritation develops.

How to Use This Planner

Choose an example frequency that is compatible with your product’s instructions and your skin’s tolerance.

Use rest days for a simple routine.

Do not increase frequency merely to fill the calendar.

If you use prescription treatments, discuss combined active-product schedules with your clinician.

17. How to Track Whether Exfoliation Is Helping

It is easy to confuse short-term smoothness with meaningful long-term improvement.

A product may make the skin feel smoother after one use, but this does not necessarily mean more frequent use will provide additional benefits.

Track Comfort First

Pay attention to:

• Dryness.
• Tightness.
• Redness.
• Stinging.
• Peeling.
• Changes in how your moisturizer feels.

Track the Actual Concern

If you began exfoliating for clogged pores, consider whether congestion improves over time.

If you began for rough texture, assess that concern consistently.

Use Comparable Conditions

If taking progress photographs, use similar lighting and camera positioning.

Avoid judging changes from photographs with substantially different exposure or filters.

Give Products Appropriate Time

Many skincare concerns take weeks or longer to assess.

Do not rapidly increase exfoliation frequency because you have not seen a dramatic change after two applications.

18. Does More Exfoliation Help With Dark Spots?

Chemical exfoliants are used in some routines intended to improve uneven pigmentation.

However, the relationship between exfoliation and pigmentation is not simply that more exfoliation produces faster fading.

Excessive irritation may contribute to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly in skin prone to developing dark marks after inflammation.

Why This Matters

A routine intended to improve uneven skin tone can become counterproductive if it repeatedly causes redness, burning or inflammatory reactions.

A More Practical Approach

Use treatments at an appropriate frequency.

Prioritize broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Avoid combining multiple exfoliants solely to accelerate visible results.

If pigmentation is persistent, spreading or associated with other symptoms, seek a dermatologist’s assessment.

19. How Important Is Sunscreen During an Exfoliation Routine?

Sun protection is important for everyone, but certain chemical exfoliants create additional reasons to be consistent.

The US Food and Drug Administration has warned that AHAs can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, including the risk of sunburn.

Its guidance recommends using sunscreen, protective clothing and limiting sun exposure during AHA use and for a week after stopping.

A Practical Morning Routine

1. Cleanse gently if needed.
2. Apply a suitable moisturizer.
3. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
4. Reapply according to the label during prolonged outdoor exposure.
5. Use shade and protective clothing when practical.

Exfoliating only at night does not eliminate the need for daytime sun protection.

20. Choosing an Exfoliant That Fits Your Routine

Before buying another exfoliating product, identify the purpose it will serve.

Main concern	Ingredient category often considered	Important caution
Dull surface appearance	AHA	Irritation and sun sensitivity
Rough texture	AHA or selected PHA formulation	Avoid aggressive use on inflamed skin
Clogged pores	Salicylic acid/BHA	Dryness and interaction with acne treatments
Sensitive skin	Sometimes milder formulations, or no exfoliant	Gentle marketing claims do not guarantee tolerance
Uneven pigmentation	Selected exfoliants within a broader routine	Irritation may worsen pigmentation
Dry, flaky skin	Moisturization may be the first priority	Flaking is not always an exfoliation problem

Should You Buy a Stronger Product?

Not automatically.

If a mild exfoliant provides adequate results, increasing strength may add risk without a corresponding benefit.

Does a Higher Acid Percentage Mean Better Exfoliation?

The stated percentage is only one factor.

Product pH, formulation, contact time and usage directions also influence performance and irritation potential.

How Do You Compare Products?

Physical Glow’s Best Chemical Exfoliants in India: Top 5 AHA and BHA Options guide compares different exfoliant formats and their intended use cases.

That commercial guide helps compare product choices. This article focuses on using an exfoliant at an appropriate frequency once you have selected one.

21. Common Exfoliation Scheduling Mistakes

Mistake 1: Using Acids Every Night Because They Feel Effective

Immediate smoothness does not prove that nightly use is appropriate.

Mistake 2: Combining Multiple Exfoliants Without Recognizing Overlap

An acid cleanser, exfoliating pad and leave-on serum may all contribute to the total exfoliating exposure.

Mistake 3: Treating a Rest Day as a Failed Skincare Day

Rest days can be useful for maintaining comfort.

Your routine does not need an active treatment every evening.

Mistake 4: Increasing Frequency Before Assessing Tolerance

Irritation may become noticeable only after repeated use.

Mistake 5: Ignoring Stinging From Ordinary Moisturizer

New stinging can be a warning that your routine has become irritating.

Mistake 6: Scrubbing Away Flakes Between Acid Sessions

Mechanical friction may worsen already irritated skin.

Mistake 7: Using Strong Peels Like Ordinary Toners

Concentrated peeling treatments may have very different instructions and safety requirements.

Mistake 8: Continuing Through Persistent Redness

Pain and inflammation are not necessary indicators of skincare effectiveness.

Mistake 9: Forgetting Sunscreen

Sun protection is essential, especially when using AHAs.

Mistake 10: Copying Someone Else’s Schedule

A routine suitable for one person’s skin may be excessive for another.

22. Frequently Asked Questions

How many times a week should I exfoliate my face?

There is no single correct frequency. The appropriate schedule depends on the product, its strength and your skin’s tolerance. Some people use a suitable mild exfoliant occasionally, while others follow different product-specific schedules.

Is exfoliating once a week enough?

For some people and products, it may be sufficient. More frequent use is not automatically necessary.

Can I use glycolic acid every day?

Some formulations may be intended for frequent use, but daily application is not suitable for everyone. Follow the label and reduce or stop use if irritation develops.

How often should beginners use AHA?

A conservative introduction, such as a single weekly application for an appropriate mild product, can be reasonable if consistent with the instructions. Adjust based on tolerance.

Can I use salicylic acid every day?

Some salicylic acid products are formulated for daily use. Suitability depends on the formulation, skin sensitivity and other acne treatments.

Can I use AHA on Monday and BHA on Wednesday?

Some people use different exfoliants on separate days, but this is not automatically necessary or suitable. Consider cumulative exposure and individual tolerance.

Should I exfoliate on consecutive days?

That depends on the specific product and its intended frequency. Consecutive use can be excessive for some treatments.

What should I apply on exfoliation rest days?

A gentle cleanser if needed, moisturizer and appropriate sunscreen are usually sufficient. Continue prescribed treatment as directed.

How do I know if I need more rest days?

Persistent tightness, redness, burning, dryness or stinging may indicate that the routine needs reassessment.

Is tingling proof that an exfoliating acid is working?

No. Tingling is not a reliable measure of effectiveness, and persistent burning may indicate irritation.

Can I use retinol and exfoliating acids in the same week?

Some people can, but the combination can increase irritation. Follow individualized guidance, especially when using prescription retinoids.

Does oily skin need more exfoliation than dry skin?

Not necessarily. Oily skin may benefit from particular treatments for clogged pores, but frequency should still depend on tolerance.

Can exfoliating too much cause acne?

Excessive exfoliation can irritate skin and may worsen the appearance of certain skin problems. New breakouts should not automatically be dismissed as purging.

Can exfoliation cause dark spots?

Inflammation and irritation can contribute to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in susceptible skin.

How long does irritated skin take to recover?

Recovery varies with the severity and cause of irritation. There is no universal number of days. Significant or persistent symptoms warrant professional assessment.

Should I use exfoliating acids during an eczema or rosacea flare?

Avoid introducing exfoliating products to actively inflamed skin without individualized medical guidance.

Is a PHA always safer than an AHA?

No. Some PHA formulations may be better tolerated, but every product’s concentration, formulation and usage matter.

23. Final Verdict: Build Your Routine Around Tolerance, Not Maximum Frequency

Chemical exfoliation can be useful for selected concerns, including rough texture, surface dullness and clogged pores.

However, the most effective schedule is not necessarily the one with the most exfoliation days.

A sensible routine begins with one appropriate product, follows the manufacturer’s instructions and allows you to observe your skin’s response.

Rest days make the routine easier to manage and reduce unnecessary overlap between potentially irritating treatments.

If your skin becomes tight, red or uncomfortable, increasing exfoliation is unlikely to be the right solution.

Instead, reassess the product, frequency and other active ingredients in your routine.

Keep cleansing gentle, use a suitable moisturizer and maintain consistent sun protection.

For some people, occasional exfoliation may provide enough benefit. Others may tolerate more frequent treatments under an appropriate plan.

The goal is the same in both cases: meaningful improvement without repeated irritation.

Editorial References and Further Reading

• American Academy of Dermatology — How to Safely Exfoliate at Home
• US Food and Drug Administration — Alpha Hydroxy Acids
• American Academy of Dermatology — Sunscreen FAQs

Physical Glow Editorial Note: This article provides general skincare education and does not replace individualized dermatological advice. Concentrated chemical peels, prescription treatments and products used for diagnosed skin conditions require their own directions. Discontinue products that cause significant irritation and seek medical advice when appropriate.