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How do I Choose the Best Exfoliating Facial Scrub?

D. Jeffress
D. Jeffress

Exfoliating facial scrubs help to remove dirt and dead skin cells from the surface of the face and promote the appearance of healthy, soft skin. There are dozens of different types of exfoliating facial scrub products available at bath and beauty shops, specialty stores, supermarkets, and online retailers. When choosing the best exfoliating facial scrub, a person should consider the results he or she wants to achieve. Some scrubs are formulated to treat either oily or excessively dry skin, some tackle acne or wrinkle problems, and many others feature aromatherapy benefits. By identifying the ingredients and reported purposes of different scrubs, an individual can make an educated decision about which is the best choice.

Since most exfoliating facial scrub products are specially designed to treat certain conditions, it is important for a person to take his or her skin type into account. An individual with very dry skin would likely be better off choosing a moisturizing and protective scrub, such as one that contains olive oil or almond oil. Skin that is oily tends to respond best to scrubs that contain more acidic solutions, like apricot, pineapple, or papaya extract.

Using a moisturizer after exfoliation helps replenish the skin.
Using a moisturizer after exfoliation helps replenish the skin.

Anyone afflicted with acne may find that a chemical scrub works best at cleansing the skin and preventing outbreaks. Such products usually contain solutions of salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which help to open pores and dry out existing pimples. An exfoliating facial scrub with large, rough particles can also be effective at opening pores. Many people use products that contain coarse salt, baking soda, or synthetic crystals to help rub away dead skin and oils.

A chemical scrub might be best for someone dealing with acne.
A chemical scrub might be best for someone dealing with acne.

If a person has sensitive skin or finds that other types of scrubs leave his or her face dry and irritated, a soothing scrub is usually the best choice. Facial scrub products that are formulated for sensitive skin can effectively remove dead cells without leaving the underlying skin feeling dry and sore. Gentle scrubs usually contain a mixture of oatmeal, sugar, honey, or herbal extracts that are known for their soothing properties.

An exfoliating facial scrub may contain papaya extract.
An exfoliating facial scrub may contain papaya extract.

Finally, a person may want to invest in an exfoliating facial scrub that has anti-aging benefits. Products that are rich in antioxidants are commonly thought to rejuvenate skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. An exfoliating facial scrub that contains solutions of vitamins A, C, and E can be very beneficial in tightening skin. Emollient scrubs with butters and plant oils are also popular anti-aging choices.

Discussion Comments

turquoise

@ysmina-- Why don't you make your own scrub? It's not hard, you just need a face cleanser, sugar and a moisturizer.

I like cocoa butter, aloe vera and shea butter a lot. You can get all natural forms of these at the pharmacy or organic stores. Just mix a tiny amount of one of these into your cleanser and some fine granulated sugar.

I bet this won't dry your skin out at all. Try it!

ysmina

@simrin-- I have the same exact problem you mentioned, except that I have very dry and sensitive skin. I still get clogged pores because of pollution and makeup though and that's why I need a good exfoliating scrub.

But every product I've tried, even ones for sensitive skin have dried my face out. I have new dry patches on my face now.

I really don't know what to do anymore. Maybe I shouldn't use a scrub at all.

SteamLouis

I think that finding the best exfoliating scrub happens by trial and error. I have tried many different types of scrubs and have been dissatisfied with most because it was just not right for my skin.

I have oily, sensitive and acne prone skin which is probably the worst combination ever. I tried using scrubs with salicylic acid but it would dry out and irritate my skin. If I used ones with moisturizing oils in it, it would make my face even oilier and more prone to breakouts.

I realized that I had to find a midway and finally discovered a papaya scrub which is working wonderfully for me. I use it once a week right after a clove mask. The mask cleans the oil and the scrub exfoliates and moisturizes.

I would recommend trying different products and paying attention to how your skin reacts to each. It will help you find the perfect scrub.

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    • Using a moisturizer after exfoliation helps replenish the skin.
      By: Africa Studio
      Using a moisturizer after exfoliation helps replenish the skin.
    • A chemical scrub might be best for someone dealing with acne.
      By: Ocskay Bence
      A chemical scrub might be best for someone dealing with acne.
    • An exfoliating facial scrub may contain papaya extract.
      By: anjelagr
      An exfoliating facial scrub may contain papaya extract.
    • There are many scrubs available for specific skin types.
      By: kubais
      There are many scrubs available for specific skin types.
    • Sugar is often an ingredient in gentle facial scrubs.
      By: bit24
      Sugar is often an ingredient in gentle facial scrubs.