Benefits of a Face Scrub & why you should use one
Have you ever wondered why some people avoid using face scrubs? Let's explore the reasons behind this common skincare dilemma.
Why Do Some People Avoid Face Scrubs?
1. Historically, many face scrubs contained plastic beads, which were considered harmful to the environment.
Back in 2013, it was discovered that microplastics had contaminated waterways around the world, even being found inside fish. It was suspected that plastic microbeads from cosmetics were the culprit. As a result, plastic microbeads were banned from being used in cosmetics (including exfoliating face scrubs!)
2. Many facial scrubs still use harsh, natural grains that have a reputation for scratching the skin.
Salt, sugar, apricot kernels, walnut husks, and other types of granular agents aren’t perfectly round. Because of their sharp edges, they don’t glide smoothly over the face. Instead, they can create too much friction, damaging the skin barrier and even creating micro-tears in it, leading to increased irritation.
What many people don’t realise is that there are facial scrubs that contain perfectly round, biodegradable beads to gently slough off dead skin. As always, it comes down to whether or not you’re using a well-formulated product (but more on that in a minute).
3. Many people think that exfoliating acids can totally replace “old-school” facial scrubs.
While I love exfoliating acids, and I recommend using them rather consistently, I don’t think they can “replace” a well-formulated face scrub. Why? Because the most effective exfoliation method involves combining BOTH chemical and physical exfoliants. In fact, there’s no better way to remove stubborn hyperpigmentation…
That’s why I alternate between an exfoliating acid serum and a facial scrub to give my skin the best results. I’ll explain this in more detail in a moment.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Face Scrub?
A facial scrub will...
Remove dry and dead skin
If you want your skin to feel baby soft, nothing works faster than a scrub. Who doesn’t love instant gratification?
Make your skin glow
Face scrubs increase circulation to the skin via the massaging action. This gives fresh, healthy, and glowing skin.
Improve the look of makeup
Foundation and concealer are notorious for accentuating dry, flaky, dead skin. A gentle face scrub can remove that dry skin so makeup goes on smoother.
Make pores appear instantly smaller
Read this post to learn why.
Fade hyperpigmentation
Whether it’s caused by sun damage or post-breakout marks, face scrubs can help fade discolouration much more quickly than just chemical exfoliants alone. Keep reading to learn how.
Why Are Face Scrubs So Beneficial for Fading Hyperpigmentation?
One of the major benefits of a face scrub is its ability to fade hyperpigmentation. This is why combining the scrub with a chemical exfoliant, in a two-step exfoliation process, is key. Let me explain.
Whether you have hyperpigmentation from sun damage or past breakouts, I bet you know how stubborn and long-lasting it can be. Some people work on fading hyperpigmentation for months (if not years!). What you need to know is that chemical and physical exfoliators work differently. It’s only when you put them together and use them in tandem, that they can synergistically remove dull, pigmented skin cells.
Chemical exfoliators dissolve the “glue” that keeps dry, dead skin cells stuck to the skin. In other words, they loosen them up and unstick them from the surface of the skin. Once they’re loosened up, they need to be manually removed to reveal the brighter, newer cells underneath. This is when a physical exfoliator (like a face scrub) comes into play. It will physically lift those cells of the skin. Trust me, chemical exfoliation alone won’t give you the best results when it comes to fading hyperpigmentation. You need to use both chemical and physical exfoliation, synergistically.
What Face Scrub Should I Use?
I’m excited to introduce you to—the Reveal Face Polish! It can be used alone or in tandem with the (about to be launched) Dual Action Peel to smooth and brighten the skin. These products are perfect for that two-step exfoliation process I mentioned earlier. The peel is a chemical exfoliant that will dissolve the bonds that hold expired skin cells together. The scrub is a gentle, physical exfoliant that will lift expired cells up and off the skin.
Both of these products contain antioxidants that will protect the skin from damaging free radicals and soothing ingredients to keep the skin’s moisture barrier intact. They’re the perfect pair. After all, we don’t call them “besties” for nothing!
My Reveal Face polish only uses round, biodegradable jojoba beads to provide gentle, physical exfoliation to the skin.
How Often Should I Use a Face Scrub?
It is recommended to use a face scrub 2-3 times a week, depending on your skin type. Over-exfoliating can lead to irritation and sensitivity, so it's important to find a balance that works for your skin.
I believe they should be used in a skincare routine along with exfoliating acids, but ideally not on the same day. If you’re using an exfoliating acid serum or Tonic several nights a week, then use a scrub on the days when you’re not using that. Generally, one to two times a week is a good rule of thumb for using a face scrub. I personally like to use it in the shower, because the jojoba beads rinse away easier.
While it can be used alone, the Reveal Face Polish was formulated to be used in tandem with the Dual Action Peel. If you have sensitive skin, you can apply the peel one night and use the scrub on another. If you don’t have sensitive skin, you can try using them back-to-back. Just be sure to patch-test both products before using them; that’s always recommended before using any new skincare product!
The Bottom Line
Face scrubs can be a beneficial addition to your skincare routine, helping to improve skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. By choosing the right scrub for your skin type and using it in moderation, you can enjoy the many benefits that a face scrub has to offer.
