The Best Face Exfoliators For Glowing Skin, According To Dermatologists

Skincare is a marathon, not a sprint: It can take days, weeks, or even months to see real results. But every once in a while there is a product that gives almost instant results. We're talking brighter, healthier, smoother skin the day you open the package. The best face scrubs remove dead skin cells for a serious glow, while other skin care products absorb more effectively and apply makeup more evenly.

Exfoliators fall into two categories: physical and chemical compounds. Physical versions use particles such as seeds, powders or granules that work to break down skin cells and other debris. Even microfiber clothes can be considered. Chemical peels use alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or enzymes to dissolve the bonds that hold dead skin cells to the surface. Both can be equally effective, so it depends on your skin type and preference.

Whether you know your skin is very sensitive, dry, flaky or completely dull, we have expert advice and a range of products to help restore your glow. Coming soon, nine exfoliating products for all budgets, skin types and concerns.

Best overall face scrub. It is the best choice for smoothing skin by doing double duty.

Kate Somerville's best-selling facial is especially good for those with tight T-zones and more visible pores, but it's safe and effective for all skin types. Although exfoliators generally fall into the chemical or physical categories, this option has two benefits. Natural silica gently cleanses and exfoliates, while a blend of lactic and salicylic acids, as well as pineapple, papaya and pumpkin enzymes, work to dissolve dead skin. But don't buy from us; She currently has over 2,000 five-star reviews on Sephora, with fans raving about how her skin has transformed into a smooth canvas for makeup.

Best exfoliator for sensitive skin AHA serum with skin soothing ingredients

Celebrity esthetician Shani Darden has built her reputation for creating skincare products alongside the treatments she applies to the world's most famous faces. This gentle serum uses lactic acid and PHA to rejuvenate and improve skin texture. It also contains soothing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, aloe and green tea extract to reduce irritation and moisturize the skin.

Best exfoliator for dry skin A mask that opens pores without drying out the skin

Drunk Elephant is known for their Instagram-worthy packaging, offering clean, high-quality skincare products, and TLC Sukari Babyfacial is one of its big players. A blend of 25% alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic, tartaric, lactic and citric) promises to increase skin cell turnover, while beta hydroxy acids (2% salicylic acid) help unclog pores, meaning pesky whiteheads on your nose disappear is. . happiness. On the other hand, the addition of virgin marula oil and niacinamide restores and replenishes moisture, making it ideal for those with drier skin.

Best exfoliator for acne prone skin

If you have acne, uneven skin tone or skin texture you want to smooth, Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliator is worth a try. Salicylic acid is a form of BHA that works great for blackheads, whiteheads and large pores. This cleansing scrub is so gentle it feels like a toner and works without disrupting the skin barrier or causing irritation. Apply to dissolve oil, dirt, and other pore-clogging dirt, and consider using it on other breakout-prone areas of the body. And did we mention it's the world's number one branded product? every day.

Best drugstore face scrub under $20 for a beautiful French woman

You don't have to spend a fortune to feel like a million bucks, and this drugstore favorite that gives your skin a serious glow is proof enough. This affordable scrub contains ultra-fine, non-abrasive, eco-friendly pumice particles harvested from volcanic rock that won't irritate or strip the skin. Gently exfoliates and brightens the skin, while glycerin and antioxidant-rich thermal water help strengthen the skin barrier.

Meghan Markle Hair Tonic Water Spray

We all fall prey to harsh exfoliation (think fruit peels from your high school skincare routine), but products that are too abrasive can seriously damage your skin. This luxurious powder formula gently cleanses and exfoliates the skin without irritation. Made with Japanese rice bran (a non-abrasive physical exfoliator), lactic acid (a mild type of AHA) and skincare silk protein, this polishing powder turns into a paste and foams when you add a little water. Use it three times a week in place of your regular cleanser to give your skin an enviable glow.

The best facial scrub

It's great for exfoliating dead skin cells, but it also removes all traces of peach fuzz and clogged pores, which is what this product is all about. Sonic Dermaplaning technology delivers results that rival some expensive professional treatments without the need for an appointment or a spa visit. This baby is refillable and will leave your skin so soft I can't stop touching my face.

Best face scrub for men

This is Dr. Although Dennis Gross' amazing sanding pads are ideal for both sexes, they are so easy to use that even the most cautious man won't be deterred. All you have to do is apply the first step to your face, wait two minutes and then repeat the second step. These exfoliating pads are formulated with a blend of Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Beta Hydroxy Acids that reduce the appearance of pimples, fade dark spots, reduce uneven texture and brighten your complexion. Yes, men can benefit from a little shine too.

Perfect night scrub, brightening, dark spot treatment

They say beautiful skin doesn't happen overnight, but Good Genes by Sunday Riley makes it even better in the morning. Lactic acid exfoliates the skin, while skin lighteners such as licorice and lemongrass lighten dark spots. We also appreciate that the brand remains committed to green technology, making only clean, safe products and using sustainable practices such as small-batch production and artificial flavors or oils.

What do you look for in a facial scrub?

When choosing the best exfoliator for your skin, choosing between a chemical formula and a physical formula really comes down to personal preference. Used carefully, both can effectively remove dead skin cells and leave skin brighter, smoother and more radiant. However, it is important to pay attention to new products, paying attention to skin changes such as redness, irritation and allergic reactions. As always, start slow. Don't rush this process by exfoliating your skin every day. Try once or twice a week to start and gradually increase if all goes well.

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MDCS Dermatology Dr. "Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are typically derived from fruit sugars, with glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid and tartaric acid being the most common forms," ​​says Sinhal Amin. These scrubs target the top layer of skin to help reduce sun damage, fine lines, melasma, acne and skin texture. Then there are beta hydroxy acids (BHA) with willow bark extract and salicylic acid. "BCCAs can penetrate deeper into the skin layer and also have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them ideal for oily and acne-prone skin," says Amin.

Physical exfoliators manually and physically exfoliate the outer layer of the skin with granules such as sugar, coffee grounds, apricot kernels, silica granules or pumice crystals. "It gives faster results, but can cause more irritation, or if it's too harsh, it can cause micro-cuts in the skin, disrupting the skin barrier," says Amin.

Skin types

It is important to consider your skin type when purchasing products. In the case of scrubs, it is important to know the ingredients that complement your skin. "I find chemical peels to be safer and more effective, especially for sensitive skin, skin with acne, or rosacea," says Amin. She notes that physical exfoliants can be too harsh and make wrinkles worse. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, Amin recommends a salicylic acid product because it penetrates pores and dissolves blackheads. "Mandelic acid is best for people with sensitive and acne-prone skin," she says.

Lactic acid is the most moisturizing chemical exfoliant, making it ideal for dry skin. If your skin can be categorized as combination or normal, or if you suffer from sun damage, discoloration or melasma, Amin says glycolic acid works best. For mature skin, says dermatologist dr. Onyeka Obioha says it is medically and cosmetically certified.

compositions

Scrubs come in all forms, from cleansers to masks, from liquids to gels, and from powders to creams. You can also get rid of peeling with household items, including dermabrasion razors, skin peelers, and even something as simple as a microfiber towel.

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Dermatologist dr. Pippa says, "Science shows that our skin has a renewal cycle of around 28 days, although this process slows down as we age, leaving the skin dry or dull. These dead cells can collect on the surface of your skin. This creates a ' a barrier that prevents oxygen and moisture from reaching the dermis Regular exfoliation removes these buildups and also helps skin care products penetrate better.

What are the benefits of exfoliation?

Finally, exfoliation removes dead skin cells, stimulates cell renewal and gives the skin a radiant glow, but the benefits don't end there. Pippa thinks it's an extra step in your cleaning routine, and says it's more effective at removing "dirt, fine dust and dirt you can't see".

In addition, Dr. "Other benefits include improving skin tone, reducing pigmentation caused by acne or sun exposure, clearing acne, fading fine lines and improving skin texture," says Azadeh Shirazi. She also thinks exfoliation makes makeup smoother.

What is the difference between chemical and physical abrasives?

Chemical and physical exfoliators remove dead skin and impurities, but they work in two different ways. On the other hand, "Chemical peels use the power of enzymes and mild acids to dissolve the glue that holds dead skin cells together, loosen their bonds and gently shed them to reveal new, healthy skin underneath," explains Amen. On the other hand, physical exfoliation is done manually using exfoliators with different grain sizes, microdermabrasion or microdermabrasion.

How often should you exfoliate?

As they say, there can be too many good things. Over-flaking is a one-way ticket to sensitive skin, irritation and even breakouts. To get to this middle ground, Amin says, "I suggest starting with once or twice a week and, if possible, up to three times a week for most skin types."

When do you peel?

Amin notes that it's best to avoid exfoliating on days you use retinoids because the compound can be very harsh on the skin. Plus, she says, "if you have eczema, irritation, or a rash, avoid any exfoliation until your skin improves."

Likewise, Pippa warns against wear and tear when the skin barrier is damaged or compromised, including sunburn, so it's best to avoid it after a day at the beach. Finally, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, Amin recommends consulting a specialist, saying, "Many chemical peels are not recommended during pregnancy or lactation."

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