The Best Face Scrubs For Younger-looking Skin
Dirt, pollution, and the sun’s UV rays damage our skin. And although there are various tan removal treatments that can be opted for, as well as different options in the market that will leave you with a healthy glow and brighter skin ~ we are often hesitant to experiment due to unwanted side effects like dryness, tenderness, or skin rash. Through trial and error over the years, I have discovered that cleansing your face with a gentle exfoliating scrub is one of the best methods to achieving beautiful glowing skin.
Now, let us first understand how exfoliation helps our skin. Exfoliation involves the removal of dead skin cells on the skin’s outermost surface, leaving the pores open for our skin to breathe, thereby improving its appearance. When it comes to choosing the best face exfoliator for you, depending on your skin type, there is a wide choice available that ranges from physical to chemical, and everything in between.
Yes, the world of exfoliants can be daunting. I have made an attempt to research some of the best available options, so you can enjoy a radiant and glowing complexion without the unpleasant side effects. Keep reading for a guide to the best face scrubs for younger-looking skin!
Physical Exfoliators
What is physical exfoliation?
This is the most widely recognised exfoliator and includes specific ingredients or a tool to physically buff away dead skin cells and any other debris. The most commonly used natural-based ingredients include nuts, stones, plants and their extracts, apricot kernel or almond shells, and sugar or salt crystals. They help soften the surface layer of dead skin cells to reveal a fresh and luminous complexion.
The tools that are used can vary from a brush, sponge, pumice stone, to a facial cloth specially crafted for exfoliation ~ that we gently rub onto our skin to achieve the desired results.
A word of caution: You must be a bit careful that you are not too hard on your skin, specifically your face and neck while using these products. Otherwise, your skin can become irritated from friction, exposing the raw tissues to bacteria and viruses.
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Are there other forms of physical exfoliation than scrubs?
Technically, there is one more kind of physical exfoliator ~ Microdermabrasion. This technique is however fairly expensive, and mustn’t be done more than once a month. Generally, we need to exfoliate at least once a week, so even if you incorporate Microdermabrasion into your routine, you will need to include other methods as well.
Listed below are a few physical exfoliators you may use in accordance with your skin type:
- For dry skin: Fuchsia Green Tea face scrub is one of the best in the market for dry skin. The ingredients include aloe vera, green tea, olive oil and wheat germ oil for super hydration. Additionally, the texture is creamy allowing for easy application.
- For sensitive skin: A perfect blend of neem, tulsi, and walnut, FabIndia’s Neem Tulsi face gel is great for sensitive skin and leaves the skin glowing. The gel is infused with particles of walnut shell which makes it perfect for gentle exfoliation on a daily basis, to aid in the removal of blackheads and whiteheads, and to keep your skin free from pimples.
- For oily/combination skin: You can’t beat Clinique’s Exfoliating Scrub which is a skin-clearing, water-based scrub recommended for oily and acne-prone skin. It de-flakes, refines, softens and leaves your skin refreshed with a luminous glow.
Chemical Exfoliators
What is chemical exfoliation?
As the name suggests, chemical exfoliators include low percentage gentle skin-boosting acids that cause the top layer of the skin to peel off and make way for new cells to turn over, revealing smoother and brighter skin. They come in the form of cleansers, toners, serums, and sometimes even moisturisers and rely on using acids such as AHA’s {Alpha Hydroxyl Acids} and BHA’s {Beta Hydroxyl Acids} to melt the cellular “glue” which holds the skin cells together ~ aiding the skin to naturally exfoliate away any dulling debris.
- For hyperpigmentation: Trichloroacetic Acid Peel contains TCA that reduces acne breakouts, improves your overall skin tone and texture, and reduces the appearance of discolouration due to hyperpigmentation or sun damage. It also reduces fine lines and wrinkles and makes you look younger.
- For sensitivity: Triple Berry Smoothing Peel by Renee Rouleau is perhaps the best face exfoliator for sensitive skin. It is very gentle, and cushions and nurtures the skin as it exfoliates to give you a beautiful radiance.
- For blemish-prone skin: You can’t beat Clinique’s Anti-blemish mask that prevents breakouts while reducing redness and inflammation. The medicated formula goes in deep to clean and unclog pores, and rid skin of excess oil.
To conclude: When it comes to exfoliating your face, you need to proceed with caution. I would advise you to consult with your dermatologist and choose the exfoliator best suited to your skin type.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to take the place of a physician’s or healthcare professional’s diagnosis, treat a medical condition or provide medical advice. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information.
Thank you for this beautifully written post and your advise, Tanya. Hopefully I can achieve the task at hand by following what you’ve depicted above for dry skin. Wish me luck!
You will achieve your #skingoals soon, Yogita. All the best!
Great post, Tanya! A good facial exfoliator is fundamental for any skincare regime. The world of exfoliators is often difficult to decipher; thank you for breaking it down for us! xx
Thanks for the appreciation, Manjula.
In the days of yore, exfoliating your face was about as delicate a procedure as restoring your floors! I’m glad that the newest generation of products gives you a chance to achieve clear, smooth skin without rubbing it raw!
Haha! Sure, that’s one way of putting it.
There’s nothing I love more than skincare! And, the instant gratification that exfoliation provides… well. I recently added a charcoal face scrub to my routine and I love it! It’s a scrub that turns into a mask after you’ve exfoliated, which I think is the best thing ever! 🙂
Two for one mask! That sounds insanely awesome! 🙂
And yes, proper exfoliation influences the rest of your products to work better, Parul.
A good skincare routine is so important, as beautiful skin mirrors a strong and beautiful being! ❤️ Those are some powerful ingredients in the products you’ve listed… I’ll have to give them a try! Thanks for the tips!
Ah, that’s an interesting way to put it.
Hi Tanya! Figured I would share my favourite formula for the ideal DIY facial mask; I use honey, lemon, nutmeg and cinnamon. It works really well on my combination skin! 🙂
This sounds like a fantastic scrub!! Love all the natural ingredients, Samridhi.
I’m all about proper skincare! Your post has been so helpful! I was never susceptible to acne, and I can’t wait for my skin to become soft and clear by following your tips! Thank you for sharing.
Be mindful not to over scrub, as the skin on your face is susceptible to irritation, Simran.
Start your day with scrubbing all the impurities away! Face scrubs are indeed a great addition to any skincare routine. I was recently introduced to chemical exfoliants, and I’ve really noticed a difference! 🙂
Glad to hear it, Sanjana. Chemical exfoliation makes skin soft and leaves your complexion glowing and refreshed!
Exfoliating makes all the difference! Definitely taking notes. ❤️❤️❤️
By the way, muslin cloth is my favourite for everyday cleansing. It is gentle and leaves my skin clean and exfoliated. Best of all, it is re-usable. I also practice body brushing which is an excellent practice to keep skin smooth and healthy!
I can see just how magical a gentle facial cleanser can be, Sanaya. 🙂
Informative post! I always start a skincare routine but never follow through with it… But these product recommendations – I will definitely try. Thanks for sharing.
Glad to hear it, Raghunandan. Scrubbing the skin gently not only sloughs off the dead skin but also pulls out the settled impurities, and un-clogs pores.
Thank you for sharing these useful tips, Tanya! I thought I knew everything about exfoliating, obviously I don’t. Can’t wait to see how my skin feels after I implement your advise. 🙂
These face scrubs will scrape off all the dullness and bring out the new you in no time, Manjula!
So thankful for this post, Tanya! I intend to begin routinely using a scrub for my sensitive skin, and hopefully after a while my skin will feel better and look better, too. ❤️❤️❤️
I’m so happy to hear this! Glad I could help, Vidushi.
I exfoliate 2-3 times a week, especially since I have sensitive skin. I also use a body scrub to enhance my skin’s well being (and turn it into a delightful, spa-like shower ritual!). 😀
Sounds like a wonderful routine, Mahanu.
As someone who has followed you since you started two years ago, can I just say how wonderful it is to see you become a successful influencer, and achieve the kind of success you have! Thank you for sharing all of these amazing posts with us! Big hugs!
Thank you so much for your appreciation, Shivya!
Ahhh yes! I keep hearing about chemical exfoliation and I’m so intrigued. Isn’t a facial scrub a truly delicious way of enjoying healthy skin?! 🙂
Yes! Make exfoliation an integral part of your skincare routine, Juhi.
This is some good advice. I’d like to share that adding your favourite essential oils to your facial scrub mixture transforms the skincare routine into an aromatherapy session! 🙂
Thank you for sharing, Nidhi. Didn’t know this. I can definitely appreciate a scented facial scrub!
I love it when you post on beauty! ✨ Exfoliation is definitely an experience that can influence your state of mind and affect your outlook as you continue your day or evening…
Absolutely Deshnee! An essential advantage of using a scrub is how good it can feel in the moment. 🙂
This is such an interesting post! I truly believe that the combination of cleansing, exfoliation and massage provides benefits that go beyond what a bar of soap can do!
This homemade face mask is so easy and so refreshing on your skin!
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon nutmeg
**Exfoliates dead cells and leaves the skin hydrated and glowing! Give it a try! 🙂
I need to give this a try! Thanks for sharing.
Hi Tanya,
Thanks for a great share. ❤️
I don’t know how to take care my oily skin. I just use facial washes, but will try your tips for scrubs.
Thank you for reading, Sujata. Experiment with various products and tools to find a scrub and technique that feels the best on your skin.
I’m going to have to try your recommendations… I presently use this Vanilla Sugar Face Scrub that’s made of brown sugar which is a natural humectant, rich shea butter, raw honey, virgin coconut oil and vanilla essential oil! My dry skin instantly feels soft, clean and thoroughly refreshed. 🙂
Sounds delicious, Subhadra! Extracts from coconuts are well known for pampering and softening skin.
I can’t agree with you enough! Exfoliating is very good for the skin because it removes the dull and brings out the new, making your face glow! Also, I always forget that the muslin cloths I use daily are also serving up exfoliation. Thank you for another fantastic post, Tanya. ❤️
p.s. Time for soaks, scrubs, and scents for a little self-care at home.
Thank you, Shanaya. So nice of you!
Thank you for this brilliant post! I guess a good scrub is just the touch of exfoliation and hydration I need to keep my skin looking its best. Definitely going to try a face scrub this week, hopefully – lol!
Always a delight to have your appreciation, Neha.
Love this post – superb info clearly outlined!
To add to your post, I would say some of the benefits of a delicious scrub are to ~
* Improve skin texture
* Remove flaky skin
* Minimize the appearance of large pores
* Prevents breakouts
Thank you for resonating with this and your sweet appreciation, Sultana.
What you put on your face after using a scrub is VERY important because your pores are exposed and you don’t want your skin to dry out, break out, or turn red from the product. I like to use my rose water toner first after exfoliating and then my hyaluronic acid face cream.
By the way, I found this post super helpful, thank you for sharing. 🙂
Thank you, Ankita! You’re always kind and affectionate.
Scrubs that cleanse, exfoliate, and nurture your skin! My skin does feel like it’s in need of a deep clean… Well, all my scrubbing doubts are resolved – thank you so much for sharing! ❤️
I’m delighted to hear this! Thank you, Pankhuri.
I love a good face scrub – it helps clear impurities, and awakens and exfoliates skin to reveal radiant skin! My Tropic body scrub is one product I literally cannot be without; my skin usually despises any sort of scrubs but this one works so well for me.
Thank you for that reflection, Niyati.
Thanks for the tips, Tanya. 🙂
I would like to add a point as well. The key is to be very GENTLE – gentle cleansing, gentle products, and gentle ingredients. I have always used a washcloth to cleanse my face, either with a face wash or light scrub. A loofah pad in the shower works great & pumice stone for my feet.
This is one reason why I am so passionate about organic skin care. It really can be life-changing, Preetikar.
I absolutely LOVE this post! ❤️ If you don’t have a scrub, you should buy one asap. Exfoliating can transform your skin.
Last weekend was reserved for catching up on some rest and giving my skin some TLC. I used an invigorating body bar containing flecks of bamboo and apple fibre that gently polished for super smooth, touchably soft skin!
Thank you for reading through and appreciating, Shilpa!
All of this sounds so incredible! A beauty routine that’s easy like a Sunday morning. ✨✨✨ Now, all I need are multi-tasking products and I am ready to take on the day! Thank you for your wonderful share, Tanya!
You are welcome, Rohita! So chuffed you like it.
I exfoliate my face and body for healthier and glowing skin! I use soft exfoliating cotton pads that are easy to use – effectively works for cleaning dead skin cells, treat dull skin problems, and make your skin softer and brighter.
On that note, don’t forget to take a moment today to refuel yourself from last week! Be sure to also take a moment to be grateful for all your blessings!
Thank you for sharing, Shaktisuta! Your thoughts are very valuable to me.
Everything about this post is beautiful! ❤️
By the way, do you know the benefits of using a sugar scrub?
* Brighten tired, dull skin.
* Help fight skin ageing.
* Help to free ingrown hairs.
* Help retain moisture to keep skin hydrated.
Thank you for your sensitivity in seeing it, Pavithra.
Skincare post of the day! ❤️
Just scoop out your desired amount of scrub, work into a lather & get rid of that dead skin! For my face, the cleanser I use is also a gentle exfoliant as well as a makeup remover. 3-in-1! While for my body, I do dry brushing before I shower. As a result, my skin is smooth without having to spend tons of money & time on spas. 🙂
Thank you for your feedback and suggestions for my readers, Saksham.
Totally loving this one. ❤️ To add to your post, I would say dead skin contributes to flaky, itchy skin. This prevents your skincare products from working because products can’t penetrate deep into your skin layers. That’s a big no-no.
Exfoliating gives you a natural glow by scrubbing away dead skin cells & clogged pores. It also helps to stimulate blood circulation, literally breathing new life into your skin. 🙂
Thank you, Tamnna. It’s so satisfying to see you enjoying my work.
Love this post & the visual explanation! Long story short, a scrub is a real deal! And on that note, make sure you treat yourself to some well deserved and needed skincare pampering this week.
Sending you great positive vibes, Lakshmi!
Yes, make yourself a priority! Scrubs tick all the boxes ~⠀
* A little goes a long way.⠀
* Smoothes skin.⠀
* Soothes skin + doesn’t leave it irritated.
It’s amazing how one product caters to so many of your needs.
Absolutely right you are, Shivani. Thank you!
Enjoyed reading your creative work. ❤️
Anyone else needs an extra dose of gentle scrubbing this week :)? Consider Tanya’s posts your weekly reminder to scrub! We promise you’ll love your glowing skin! ✨ Just remember it’s all about balance so don’t exfoliate more than 2-3 times per week, that’s plenty!
So sweet of you, Shruti. Thanks much. Quite reassuring really.
You always have fabulous posts & create magic with your touch, Tanya! ✨ Love these amazing images and your creative way to present them. ❤️ And, I am a big fan of how effortlessly elegant your writing always is!
Thank you so much for the kind words and for dropping by. It means so much to me, Kshitija!
Selfcare is a beautiful + refreshing experience for the skin and the soul! And exfoliating is the key to soft skin! I schedule a weekly body scrubbing session and feel my whole body begin to relax as my stress and anxieties melt away… 🙂
On another note: You are eternally gorgeous, Tanya. I am so happy to read your honest post. Do what works best for you. ❤️
Thanks so much for the continued support, Ananya, and I will keep doing my best to bring beauty to you!
WOW, your routine is on point!! ❤️ And, your simple yet smart tips always inspire me! I’ve been learning so much on this new skincare journey I’m embarking on. Thanks for sharing this post. Lessons learned and noted on here!
Thank you for your valued appreciation, Varsha. Have a wonderful week!
Can we say, “AMEN”? Who doesn’t want healthy feel-good skin?!
On a related note, don’t forget that Monday is not just the end of the weekend, but the beginning of a new week. Start it off right & on a good note!
Oh, so sweet! Thank you very much, Aaradhana.
Wow, love this one! ❤️❤️❤️ And yes, the skin you have been longing for is now just a rinse away! I suggest exfoliating your body 1-2x a week and adjust depending on your skin type because everyone is different. Then be prepared for your best skin yet!
Thank you so much for stopping by, Monali. Hope you’re well.
So happy to see and resonate with your writings. ❤️ Dry skin can definitely be a daily struggle, but it doesn’t have to be! I use a whipped body scrub made with essential oils and Shea butter to give my skin the maximum nourishment it needs!
I’m so glad you resonate with this, Trisha. Thank you very much indeed!
I love reading your beautiful posts so much, Tanya! ❤️ What I love about this way of exfoliating {I use a scrub in powder form} is that I am completely in control. If I want deeper exfoliation, I add less water to the scrub. If I fancy a face mask, I only mix it with a few drops of face oil to form a paste. One product, many ways to take advantage of it.
Definitely hear you on that one, Veena!
A wonderful and well-written post! Love the images. ❤️
Well, there are certainly multiple ways you can exfoliate but my favourite way is to use a scrub. The one I use is formulated with a blend of skin-conditioning agents that refreshes and soothes my skin for added post-scrub comfort, leaving my complexion looking smooth and glowing bright. 🙂
Thank you so much for being present, Poornema. So glad you enjoyed it!
A pertinent post. When your skin looks and feels dull and tired, it is time to give it a freshness boost! And, exfoliating your skin is definitely the key to a flawless finish! So, if exfoliation isn’t a part of your current skincare routine, throw the whole routine away!
On that note, thank you for the useful posts you curate to make wellness easier to comprehend and apply, Tanya. We really needed them. ❤️
Your sweet words are dearly appreciated, Ambika.