Exfoliation: Scrub Your Way to a Glowing Complexion

Let’s take a look at the different types of exfoliators. The most basic are the physical options. This can include a basic washcloth, a granular scrub, or one of the facial brushes that seem so popular. These are sometimes preferred if you have “moody” skin since you can more easily control the level of exfoliation through the pressure you apply.

Using a washcloth, a sea sponge, or a facial pad is one of the easiest methods of exfoliation. It requires no additional steps or products and chances are you use one to wash your face anyway. If your skin tends to be extremely sensitive, this is probably your best bet. You can use it with your normal cleanser, and complete both steps at the same time. I also use mine on my lips before applying my night-time lip balm!

The granular scrub can be found in almost any drugstore, department store, or specialty store. Many of these previously contained tiny plastic microbeads, but almost all manufacturers have removed these from their products due to the overall environmental impact. Other options include fruit or nut shells (St. Ives Apricot Scrub), sugar (Fresh Sugar Face Polish), or cornmeal (Blue Cornmeal Facial Scrub by Haven Scent), among others. If you like the feel of a nice scrubby clean, this is the way to go. Personally, I enjoy having one of these around just to use when I feel the need!

The facial brushes ran the gamut from “pocketbook-friendly” to “start-saving-now”. The simple ones resemble a large toothbrush such as this Exfoliating Face Brush from Dermalogica. The most famous of the electronic versions is the Clarisonic, but there are less expensive versions such as the ones by Clinique, Olay, or Ulta.

Let’s keep going for non-physical options!