She recommends using an exfoliating scrub with salicylic acid, which "gently speeds up skin turnover and better penetrates oil and oily follicles" to keep skin clean and clear of blemishes. Dr. Libby suggests salicylic acid, too, which she says “is excellent at targeting oil and unclogging pores.”
However, some popular options include gentle exfoliants like St. Ives Apricot Scrub, Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub, and Neutrogena Deep Clean Invigorating Foaming Scrub. It's essential to choose a scrub that suits your skin's needs and doesn't cause irritation.
Sugar and salt scrubs may get the bulk of praise in the body exfoliation world, but we're also fans of high-quality loofahs and other body exfoliation tools. A tool lacks the granular mess common with a scrub, meaning you can reach for one of these handheld items no matter where you are.
Generally, it is recommended to exfoliate two to three times a week for oily skin, once or twice a week for normal or combination skin, and once a week or every two weeks for dry or sensitive skin.
A dermatologist previously told PureWow that a chemical exfoliant can provide a powerful dose of acids to remove “dead dull-looking skin cells, reveal healthy cells, reduce hyperpigmentation and improve skin texture.” Their formulas typically have AHAs or BHAs like glycolic acid, lactic acid and/or salicylic acid.
Although sugar scrubs are highly effective at physical exfoliation, they do not provide any other cleansing benefits. Salt scrubs, on the other hand, do detoxify the skin as they scrub, which can be a huge benefit for people struggling with overactive oil glands on the body, for example.
Dry brush: These brushes have dense bristles that can help exfoliate your skin before you get in the shower, says Dr. Rachel Westbay, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist. Like exfoliating gloves, dry brushes are especially good to use on dry and rough areas of the body, experts told me.
Choose the length and style that is right for you. Fit Tip for Women — when choosing S.C.R.U.B.S. tops and pants, order your street size if you like room to move. Order one size down if you prefer a more precise fit.
Figs, Cherokee, Grey's Anatomy, and WonderWink are some of the top-rated brands for comfortable nursing scrubs. These brands are known for their emphasis on comfort, durability, and practicality, which are the main factors that nurses consider when choosing scrubs.
Look for a face scrub that contains salicylic acid or tea tree oil if you have oily or acne-prone skin. These substances aid in the regulation of oil production, control breakouts, and deeply cleanse the pores. To avoid over-stimulating the skin, choose a walnut scrub with moderate exfoliating granules.
Cotton scrubs are lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for warm weather or long days on your feet. Polyester scrubs are wrinkle-resistant and easy to care for, making them a good choice for busy medical professionals.
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Both can work, but chemical exfoliants, especially those with salicylic acid, are often more effective. Dry/Sensitive Skin: Gentle chemical exfoliants are usually better tolerated. Normal/Combination Skin: Can often benefit from both types, used alternately.
There are two main types of exfoliation -physical and chemical exfoliation. Example, examples of physical exfoliation are scrubs, drybrushes, or micro dermabrasion, even dermaplaning. Some examples of chemical exfoliation are alpha and beta, hydroxy acids, peels, exfoliating pads.
The verdict: Using your hands is perfectly fine as long as you wash them first to avoid spreading bacteria. Dr. Schlessinger also recommends using gentle circular motions when massaging cleanser onto your face or body.
Dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian says, “It's really personal preference, but from a dermatologist's point of view, using bare hands or a soft cloth or flannel is best. Ensure the cloth is washed and fully dried after each use.
Final Thoughts- Just do it. Silicone body mitts are more hygienic, durable, and better for your skin compared to traditional loofahs. Their natural antimicrobial properties ensure a cleaner, safer shower experience. They last much longer, making them a more sustainable and cost-effective choice.
Here's a general guideline: For sensitive or dry skin, opt for a sugar scrub. If your skin is balanced or oily, a salt scrub can effectively exfoliate. For detoxifying and soothing tired muscles, a salt scrub with Epsom salts may be ideal.
For exfoliation, a body scrub is the go-to option. Exfoliation is its sole purpose, sloughing off dead skin cells for incredibly soft and smooth skin. A dry brush, on the other hand, does exfoliate your skin a bit but its real magic lies in its benefits for your circulation.
Dr. Gratch considers this a great salt scrub, even for someone with sensitive skin, because Himalayan salt offers gentle exfoliation and nourishment.
Mechanical Exfoliation: in contrast to chemical exfoliation, mechanical exfoliation removes dead skin physically. This technique may involve the use of a soft brush or a washcloth to gently rub in circles on the face. Most effective on normal to oily skin types, this tends to be more harsh than chemical exfoliation.