Including a face scrub in your skincare routine is one of the best ways to keep your complexion smooth, hydrated and radiant. By lifting dead skin cells from the surface, skin exfoliation evens the overall tone and preps your pores for maximum absorption of serums and moisturizers. You need to find the best exfoliator for your face by skin type, and remember the magic word for any exfoliating scrub: G-E-N-T-L-E.
Exfoliating scrubs should never cause dryness, irritation or flaky skin. These are red flags that can indicate your skin exfoliation is too intense in terms of frequency and/or formula. You shouldn’t be sandpapering your face or applying excess pressure. Maybe a daily exfoliant is too often or the ingredients are incompatible with your skin type.
There are two types of face exfoliators: mechanical and chemical. Mechanical scrubs physically slough with tiny granules or textured buff pads. The chemical realm of skin exfoliation includes enzymes and hydroxy acids that break down and loosen dead skin cells. There are gentle versions in both categories, so start by looking for face-loving ingredients like soothing oatmeal, and papaya or pineapple with natural enzymes.
Some of the best face scrubs that work mechanically are made with round particles that won’t cause microtears in your skin. Ground sugar, sand and crystals tend to be uneven and coarse, so look for a product that’s finer in terms of graininess (in addition to oatmeal, finely ground nut shells or rice flour are good options). And make sure you don’t exert too much pressure on your skin.
When it comes to exfoliators for sensitive skin, it’s easy to overdo the scrubbing. Lean towards mild chemical exfoliating products made with AHAs and PHAs. They work a little more slowly, but you’ll avoid irritation and redness. To find the right exfoliator for dry skin, also go easy on the mechanical or chemical intensity.
Before buying any exfoliating face scrub, do a test on the back of your hand or inner wrist. Don’t use it on your face if it feels abrasive. As Garnier consulting dermatologist Dr. Diane Madfes says, “Scrubs are used for light exfoliation and afterwards the skin should feel tight.” But finding the right exfoliator is not as hard as it seems.
