The Ultimate Guide to Face Scrubs

In the realm of skincare, one product stands out as universally known and appreciated – the trusty face scrub. It’s a staple in most bathrooms, and for good reason. Face scrubs, with their grainy texture, work wonders in removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, leaving you with a satisfyingly clean and baby-soft smoothness.

Face scrubs have seen their share of highs and lows in the beauty industry. They reached their peak in the 90s and early 2000s but fell out of favor in the later 2010s. However, the good news for fans of physical exfoliation is that new technology, gentler ingredients, and improved formulas have catapulted face scrubs back into the limelight. They’re better than ever, and there’s something for everyone.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the dos and don’ts of using face scrubs, and we’ll introduce you to the 15 best face scrubs in 2024, covering a wide range of skin types and preferences. Let’s dive in!

Dos and Don’ts of Face Scrubs

Before we delve into the top face scrubs of 2024, it’s essential to understand the right way to use these products. Exfoliation, whether physical or chemical, can have numerous benefits for your skin. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

The Benefits of Exfoliation:

Clears and Prevents Clogged Pores: Exfoliants, like facial scrubs, remove the top layer of dead skin cells, reducing the likelihood of clogged pores.
Improves Skin Texture: Exfoliation enhances the overall texture of your skin, leaving it smoother and more even.
Boosts Blood Circulation: The massaging action during exfoliation promotes better blood circulation, contributing to a healthy complexion.
Fades Dark Spots: Exfoliation can help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation over time.
Enhances Product Absorption: Exfoliating your skin allows other skincare products to penetrate more effectively, maximizing their benefits.

Precautions:

Don’t Overdo It: Over-exfoliating can lead to skin issues, including dryness, redness, irritation, and inflammation. Stick to a recommended frequency.
Avoid Harsh Scrubs: Choose products with spherical, gentle beads or exfoliants that won’t scratch or damage your skin. Harsh exfoliants with rough, jagged edges can create micro-tears.
Consider Your Skin Type: Different scrubs suit different skin types. Make sure your chosen scrub aligns with your skin’s needs and sensitivity levels.

The 15 Best Face Scrubs in 2024

Now that you know the dos and don’ts let’s explore the top 15 face scrubs in 2024, each catering to specific skincare needs and preferences.

1. Exfoliating Scrub – Blu Atlas

Skin Types: All
Active Ingredients: Bamboo, caffeine, hibiscus flower, fatty acids
Price: $25
Recommended Usage: Two to five times a week

The Blu Atlas Exfoliating Scrub is our top pick for 2024. This gentle yet effective scrub offers a creamy texture that moisturizes and soothes your skin. It’s suitable for all skin types and features natural exfoliants like silica, bamboo stem powder, and jojoba beads. Plus, it’s vegan and made from 98% naturally derived ingredients.

2. Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

Skin Types: Normal, combo, oily, acne-prone
Active Ingredients: Lactic acid, salicylic acid, fruit enzymes, aloe vera
Price: $98
Recommended Usage: Twice a week

Don’t have time for a spa facial? The ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment offers clinic-inspired results in just two minutes. This powerful scrub combines AHA and BHA acids with natural enzymes and soothing ingredients to tackle skin texture, fine lines, and pore size.

3. Shiseido WASO Satocane Pore Purifying Scrub Mask

Skin Types: Normal, dry, combination, oily, acne-prone
Active Ingredients: Japanese sugarcane, kaolin clay, betaine
Price: $38
Recommended Usage: Once to twice a week

The Shiseido WASO Satocane Pore Purifying Scrub Mask offers the benefits of a clay mask and the smoothing effects of a physical scrub. Formulated with Satokini and kaolin clay, this mask helps prevent clogged pores. It’s perfect for all skin types and leaves you with an even, glowing complexion.

4. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator

Skin Types: All
Active Ingredients: Rice enzymes, colloidal oatmeal, salicylic acid, licorice root
Price: $65
Recommended Usage: Daily

The Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator is a cult favorite with its gentle powder-to-paste formula. It features pore-clearing salicylic acid, calming colloidal oatmeal, and finely milled rice powder. This daily exfoliator is suitable for all skin types, leaving your skin fresh and radiant.

5. Versed Day Maker Microcrystal Exfoliator

Skin Types: All
Active Ingredients: Microcrystalline, jojoba oil, black currant leaf, raspberry leaf
Price: $16.99
Recommended Usage: Once to twice a week

For those on a budget, the Day Maker Microcrystal Exfoliator from Versed is an excellent choice. It contains plant-based cellulose microcrystals and antioxidants to deliver soft, radiant skin. This pH-balanced scrub is gentle and suitable for all skin types.

6. Eminence Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant

Skin Types: All
Active Ingredients: Lactic acid, exfoliating flours, strawberry, hyaluronic acid
Price: $55
Recommended Usage: Daily

Fruit and exfoliation go hand in hand in the Eminence Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant. This powder exfoliant contains strawberry and rhubarb for gentle, daily exfoliation. It’s enriched with lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, and heilmoor clay, leaving your skin balanced and healthy.

7. Paula’s Choice The UnScrub Gentle Cleansing Scrub

Skin Types: All
Active Ingredients: Jojoba beads, glycerin, green tea, chamomile
Price: $35
Recommended Usage: Daily

The UnScrub by Paula’s Choice is more of an exfoliating cleanser than a scrub. It features biodegradable jojoba beads that naturally dissolve as you cleanse, making it impossible to over-exfoliate. This milky gel texture leaves your skin soft and supple.

8. Dr. Barbara Sturm Facial Scrub

Skin Types: Dry, sensitive
Active Ingredients: Vitamin A, silk, cellulose, purslane extract
Price: $75
Recommended Usage: Once to twice a week

The Dr. Barbara Sturm Facial Scrub is perfect for dry, sensitive skin. It gently removes dry patches and leaves your skin smooth and hydrated. With soothing ingredients like purslane, horse chestnut, and a blend of oils, it promotes skin health and vibrancy.

9. Kiehl’s Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion

Skin Types: All
Active Ingredients: Micronized shells, willow herb, shea butter, glycerin
Price: $46
Recommended Usage: Three times a week

If you’re seeking a microdermabrasion-like effect at home, Kiehl’s Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion is your answer. It uses highly efficient micronized shell powder for intensive exfoliation, targeting discoloration and skin texture. This scrub also contains soothing ingredients to counter the exfoliation intensity.

10. Ranavat Smoothing Facial Polish

Skin Types: Normal, dry, acne-prone
Active Ingredients: Rice powder, ashwagandha, lotus seed, licorice root
Price: $45
Recommended Usage: One to three times a week

11. Minimo Glow Skin Brightening Face Scrub

- Skin Types: All
- Active Ingredients: Turmeric, manuka honey, cinnamon, chamomile
- Price: $26.96
- Recommended Usage: Two to five times a week.

What to Consider When Buying a Face Scrub

As you embark on your journey to find the perfect face scrub, there are several factors to keep in mind:

Ingredients

The primary ingredient in your chosen face scrub should be an exfoliant, which can be either physical or chemical. Look for a scrub with multiple exfoliants that work together for improved cell turnover and radiance. Additionally, opt for a scrub enriched with hydrating, emollient, and antioxidant-rich ingredients for overall skin health.

Exfoliants

All face scrubs contain some form of mechanical or physical exfoliant that removes dead skin cells from the surface. Look for scrubs with evenly shaped granules like jojoba beads or finely milled particles such as rice or bamboo powder. These are gentler on the skin and won’t cause micro-tears. Some of the best face scrubs combine physical exfoliants with chemical exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, or fruit enzymes for enhanced effectiveness.

Skin Type

Choosing a scrub that matches your skin type is crucial. Combination, oily, and acne-prone skin can typically handle more intense exfoliation, as they often deal with clogged pores and breakouts. Dry skin types should opt for creamy, non-stripping formulas enriched with hydrators and exfoliants like lactic acid. If you have sensitive skin, avoid scrubs with harsh exfoliants, as they may be too intense for your skin.

How to Use a Face Scrub

Using a face scrub properly ensures you get the best results while avoiding skin irritation:

Step 1: Use the scrub after cleansing while your skin is slightly damp. This prevents excessive friction and allows the exfoliants to glide smoothly.

Step 2: Dispense the recommended amount of scrub into your palm.

Step 3: Apply the scrub to your damp face and gently massage using circular motions and light pressure. Avoid pressing too hard.

Step 4: Focus on target areas like cheeks and nose, avoiding delicate areas around the eyes and lips.

Step 5: Massage for at least 30 seconds or as directed by the product.

Step 6: Rinse with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry. Follow with the rest of your skincare routine, including serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen during the day.

How Often Should You Use a Face Scrub?

Most experts recommend exfoliating the face two to three times a week, which is a good starting point for most skin types. Sensitive skin may start with once a week and gradually increase based on how the skin responds.

The frequency of use also depends on the product. Some gentle scrubs are designed for daily use, while others are suitable for once or twice a week. Avoid over-exfoliating, as it can harm your skin.

Can You Use a Face Scrub if You Have Acne?

Yes and no. Exfoliation can be beneficial for reducing acne, as it helps with clogged pores, minor breakouts, and post-acne dark marks. However, using an overly harsh manual scrub can irritate acne, particularly deep and cystic breakouts.

If you have acne and want to use a face scrub, choose a gentle product that won’t cause irritation, like Paula’s Choice The Unscrub. Consider scrubs with salicylic acid, which helps clear clogged pores and reduce breakouts, along with soothing ingredients to address redness and inflammation. Always consult a dermatologist for personalized advice on dealing with acne.