An exfoliating scrub majorly helps to exfoliate the buildup of dead skin cells, dirt, oil and pollutants effectively from the face. But it does not mean it would give better results when used in excess. Over-exfoliation could worsen your skin by causing excess skin dryness and damage to the skin barrier.
This results in a rebound oil production as a defense mechanism. So it is important to find the right exfoliating routine for your skin for getting proper balanced skin. Every skin type has different conditions and should use a face scrub accordingly.
It is important to use an exfoliating scrub in moderation to get better results for each skin type. A physical scrub helps in lifting the impurities by manually scrubbing face scrub. It is important to begin by slowly incorporating the face scrub in your routine to adapt it according to your skin type.
A face scrub works well for your skin to clear out the impurities but you need to be wise while using a face scrub in order to protect your skin. Ensuring a proper balanced routine of face scrub helps you achieve a healthy and glowing skin.
Understanding physical and chemical exfoliation
You need to understand the type of exfoliant you are using to effectively incorporate it in your weekly routine according to your skin type.
Physical exfoliation
Incorporates small exfoliating particles that need to be manually scrubbed on the face to remove or exfoliate the dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. It helps in shedding the dead skin along with surface impurities. It helps in making the skin feel clear and smooth right after exfoliating but is a temporary solution.
Chemical exfoliation
It involves using mild specialized acids like alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids which work chemically to dissolve the bonds of dead skin cells and help in exfoliating them from the skin evenly. Some chemical exfoliants like BHAs have a deeper penetration ability due to their oil soluble nature which allows them to clear the impurities from the pores. They help in gradual improvement in skin texture.
Finding your right weekly routine
For incorporating a face scrub in your routine you don’t need to fix a schedule, instead you need to alter the schedule according to your skin’s need. For building a perfect weekly routine you need to be consistent and develop the right routine for your skin.
In the start, begin slowly and use a scrub for once a week only. Notice any signs of skin irritation or any other signs of how it responds to your skin for 48 hours. If you think the scrub works well with your skin and does not develop any signs of redness, irritation or inflammation when used once a week for the next two weeks then shift to two day a week usage. You can use a face scrub for thrice a week during hot and humid days and lower the routine during dry winters.
A balanced and smooth skin with gradual use indicates the perfect routine of scrubbing. Your skin starts looking brighter and naturally radiant.
Routine according to skin type
Every skin is different and reacts differently to skincare products. So it is important to incorporate a face scrub in your weekly routine according to your skin’s adaptability in order to prevent skin irritation.
For oily and acne-prone skin
Oily or acne prone skin produces sebum in excess which mixes with dirt and buildup and clogs the pores. A gentle face scrub helps to clear the buildup of oil, dirt and dead skin cells from the skin and reduces shine. It is best to use this scrub twice or thrice a week.
For combination skin
Combination skin deals with a complex skin having two problems at once. It needs to find the right balance between excess oil and excess dryness to maintain their skin properly. They can use a face scrub to gently lift the excess oil without stripping the moisture barrier of the skin twice a week.
For dry and sensitive skin
Dry and sensitive skin have a compromised skin barrier and their skin lacks moisture. A face scrub when used too many times can strip their skin and cause more dry so they need to exfoliate only once a week for better results.
For normal skin
They have a balanced skin type and require gentle cleansing to maintain this balance so they can exfoliate once or twice a week in order to get clear, smooth skin without creating any problems
Morning or evening cleanse
Evening exfoliation is better as it helps in clearing out the buildup of dirt, pollution, sebum and sweat that get accumulated on the skin throughout the day. Also skin goes through repair during night so better results are delivered.
Morning cleanse helps to boost skin radiance and helps to smoothen the skin but always use SPF after to protect your skin.
Guidelines for using a face scrub in routine
You can follow a proper stepwise guide while exfoliating every time.
- Wash your hands properly
- Wash your face with water and a cleanser
- Take a pea sized amount of face scrub in you palm
- Apply it to the by massaging it and gently scrub all over your face
- Exfoliate for a about a minute
- Rinse off with water
- Pat dry the face with soft towel
- Apply a hydrating lightweight cream
Final thoughts
You need to incorporate a face scrub in your routine according to your skin type and ensure building a weekly routine with consistency. Do not over-use a scrub as it may worsen your skin. It is better to stick to a limited routine and exfoliate gently. Look for the best scrubs according to your skin type.
