Face scrubs could be causing skin damage from overuse or harsh chemicals – here’s how you should be using them
Experts are warning that we might be doing more harm than good by overusing face scrubs and choosing the wrong type for our skin
FACE scrubs are a great way to achieve soft, youthful and radiant look by removing dead cells and dirt - but they can leave your skin dry and damaged if not used properly.
Experts have given their advice on how often you should be exfoliating, depending on your skin type, to ensure that everyone can perfect their routine.
HOW CAN I EXFOLIATE?
Exfoliation can be done using tiny particles such as beads, sugar, salt or shells that will lift off any dead skin cells as they are rubbed over the skin.
Other methods include using chemicals like acid that will dissolve the dry cells. These can even be mechanically removed using a brush to take off the dead skin.
New York dermatologist Dr Dendy Engelman told that chemical exfoliants are best for the skin as they don't need repeated scrubbing and are less abrasive.
She said: "Physical exfoliation can be too harsh on the skin if not done properly or too frequently."
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I DO IT?
Esthetician Julia Alekperova, of Paul Labrecque Salon and Spa in New York, says that people with normal or combination skin should exfoliate their face once a week.
Over-using exfoliants, for example every two or three days, could leave people with damaged skin, especially those whose skin is already dry or sensitive.
It can also make skin thinner and less shiny as well as leaving some people’s faces red and irritated with a ‘dry but oily’ look.
It’s important to recognise which scrub is right for your skin type to stop this from happening and reduce the risks of skin damage.
Dermatologist Dr Michele Green told the MailOnline that the best way to protect skin is to pay attention to how you react to different products and determine from there how to incorporate a scrub into your routine.
WHAT IF MY SKIN IS SENSITIVE?
Dr Green wouldn’t recommend the scrubs for those with sensitive skin because exfoliation itself can already lead to the skin feeling pretty dry.
But for those who still want to try, Dr Alekperova said that those with dry skin could shy gommage, an enzyme-rich gel that contains ‘thinner particles’ and is not so harsh.
Using a chemical exfoliant, like salicylic acid, as opposed to physical exfoliants like brushes or creams with beads, is preferable for many experts though.
This is because there's less chance they'll cause microscopic tears in the skin's surface, and especially for patients that have acne or skin conditions, are less likely to make things worse.
Dr Engelman said: "If your skin is acne-prone, reusable devices like a brush or cloth can harbor bacteria which can make conditions like acne worse.
"Sensitive skin will react best to chemical exfoliants, which will help with acne lesions, clean pores and remove pore-clogging dead skin cells."
SO HOW SHOULD I USE IT?
As said by the experts, pay close attention to the way your skin responds and base how often you use the scrub on your reactions.
Only ever use your facial scrubs on clear skin, which means people should wash their face before using the scrub, followed by a serum and face lotion for the best result.
Proceed with caution, and if you have sensitive skin stay away from aggressive exfoliation with sugar, salt or walnut shells.
Most importantly, don't overuse these products as it could be causing more problems rather than solving any issues you already have.
It's best not to over-complicate things though, says Dr Green: "Just pick the product which is right for your skin type."
Earlier this week we looked at how to save money on expensive spa treatments that you can do at home, and how to make your tan last longer by ditching the scrubs and using a hoover.