The main differences between a facial scrub and a skin exfoliator are the product itself and the delivery. A facial scrub is a physical exfoliant usually made of small beads, crushed-up plant-based items, or natural skincare ingredients, like sugar or salt granules.
The basic difference between a scrub and an exfoliator is that the scrub contains exfoliating particles in a cream-based concoction. But an exfoliator can be a chemical or a mechanical agent applied to the skin to remove the dead cells from your skin.
Most experts advise that you exfoliate two to three times per week — as long as your skin can handle it. Chemical exfoliants tend to be fine to use more regularly. Physical methods, on the other hand, may be too abrasive to use multiple times a week.
Mechanical exfoliation uses a tool, such as a brush or sponge, or a scrub to physically remove dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliation uses chemicals, such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids, to gently dissolve dead skin cells.
As a dermatologist in Columbia, Maryland, Dr. Melanie Adams recommends that patients of all ages add regular exfoliation to their skin care regimen. She shares some benefits and tips regarding how and why exfoliating is such an important step for keeping your skin looking and feeling its healthiest at every age.
Poor exfoliation is a leading cause of blackheads and whiteheads, some of the most common signs of acne. You can also develop “undergrowth” without regular exfoliation. This is comprised of not only dead skin cells but also trapped dirt and oil, which can lead to ingrown hairs.
A body scrub is a type of physical exfoliator — that is, a skincare product that mechanically sloughs away the dead skin cells on top of the skin. This is usually done by mixing grainy ingredients, such as salt or sugar, with an oil or gel base, then applying this mixture to the skin.
Generally speaking, board-certified dermatologist Lian A. Mack, MD, says exfoliating daily isn't recommended for many skin types as it will strip skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling overly dry, which can then result in irritation and inflammation.
For most people, body exfoliation 2–3 times each week is enough to keep your skin in top condition. To exfoliate properly, make sure the water in your shower is warm—this will help open your pores. Then, gently scrub your exfoliating body scrub in circles over your skin.
Should you exfoliate before or after shower? Same rules apply here as they do for washing your face. It's way better to exfoliate after you've finished using haircare or other shower products and when you can use cool water.
After exfoliating your face or body, it's important to always follow up with a moisturizer, said Zeichner, who usually pairs exfoliating products with moisturizers that have skin-repairing ingredients such as niacinamide, ceramides and/or oatmeal.
When it comes to morning versus night exfoliation, you're going to reap the best benefits from exfoliating in the morning time. This is due to the oils your skin produces overnight. You'll be able to more smoothly remove all impurities, dead skin, and oils, when you exfoliate in the morning, rather than at night.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, exfoliation can leave your skin looking brighter and improve the effectiveness of topical skin care products by enhancing absorption. Regular exfoliation can also help prevent clogged pores, resulting in fewer breakouts.
Technique matters when it comes to exfoliation, and the techniques are different for body scrubs compared to dry brushing. You want to use a body scrub while your skin is wet. It's ideal to do it while you're in the shower and after you've been in the shower for a few minutes to loosen up your dead skin cells.
Exfoliating is actually a must for an anti-aging skincare routine. By exfoliating away dead, dull skin cells, you're revealing brighter, newer skin underneath and also increasing cellular turnover, softening and preventing fine lines and wrinkles.
Too much of a good thing really can happen, especially when it comes to exfoliation. While getting rid of skin impurities on a regular basis is good, doing it too much can aggravate the skin. Over-exfoliation can lead to redness, irritation, and may leave the skin inworse condition than what you started with.
It's best not to use a body scrub on your skin every day. Overexfoliating your skin can leave it dry, sensitive, and irritated. It's generally safe to exfoliate your skin two to three times a week. If your skin is dry and sensitive, you may want to exfoliate only once a week.
Your skin needs moisture, especially after you exfoliate. Using a super-hydrating facial moisturizer after you exfoliate helps replenish any moisture loss from exfoliating. Apply sunscreen. “If you can't tone it, tan it” might be your mantra for your midsection, but the sun isn't going to do your face any favors.
Apply Moisturizers
if you just finished exfoliating your face, or any other body part, the most important thing to remember is to stay moisturized. While one exfoliation won't completely strip your skin of all of its oil, it will remove most of it, leaving the surface dry.
Exfoliation won't totally deplete your skin of moisture, but repeatedly exfoliating the skin without following up with a good moisturizer can leave your skin parched and overly-sensitive (especially if you are someone who enjoys taking hot showers). We recommend products containing ultra-hydrating oils and humectants.