Hi there!
If there's one thing we really enjoy doing, it's answering your questions on skin care! And one question that's been asked a lot in the last few months is: Can I use a face scrub daily? Isn't it supposed to be just once a week? While we've answered this on WhatsApp & Facebook to those who asked, we thought of sharing the answers (to this and many other questions about scrubs) through this post. Don't miss the bonus tips at the end :) Off we go!
[1] Can I use a face scrub daily?
Yes & No.
The main job of a scrub is to remove the surface layer of dead cells which is accumulated over a period of time due to pollution, hard water, sun exposure etc.
YES: if you’re using a cellulose- or jojoba-wax based scrub which is mild. You can use it daily since the scrub particles are gentle and will not over-exfoliate.
NO: if you’re using a walnut/apricot or dermabrasion-based scrub, then just once-a-week usage is recommended. For slightly mature skin, you could scrub twice a week since the cell renewal process slows down with age and scrubbing more frequently will aid the process.
[2] I wash my face twice daily with an excellent cleanser. Do I need a separate scrub?
New age face washes with active ingredients actually do a great job of cleansing face as well as fighting dead cell build-up. However, using a face wash with gentle scrub adds a physical dimension to the cleansing process, making it more effective. If you are young and mostly stay indoors, you are quite set with a face wash-cum-scrub, or even just a face wash, and can skip weekly scrubbing completely. Use a face mask once a week instead, to get going on the exfoliation.
However, if you are above 30 or spend considerable time in the sun or in traffic, then your skin definitely needs a weekly scrub and mask in addition to daily cleansing. This will keep your skin in top condition for years to come!
[3] My skin feels dry after I use a face-wash-cum-scrub. Did I choose the right product?
It is common to feel your skin is stretched, or dry, after you use a scrub for the first time, and that's because your skin got exfoliated after a long time. And it possibly also scrubbed out the lipid layer that protects your skin from getting dry. But it's nothing to worry about. Use a moisturizer on your skin to re-hydrate it. After a few applications, your skin would reach a "steady state" and wouldn't feel stretched - in fact you will love the softness that comes in after scrubbing.
However, a general word of caution: if you experience redness or extreme irritation with any product, don't subject your skin to it - stop using it immediately.
[4] I used scrub and it gave me a breakout? Could I be allergic to it?
Again, Yes & No. You could be allergic to one of the scrub ingredients, any of the actives or there is a possibility that the scrub particles irritated your skin. Another common reason for the breakout due to scrub usage is over-scrubbing.
The solution: Use the scrub maximum once a week & go for soft scrub particles, avoiding hard nut-shell powder scrubs. And maybe scrubs are not for you: you can simply skip the scrub and go for a gentle face wash-cum-scrub (and use a face mask weekly) to get your dose of exfoliation.
[5] Which is better? Foaming scrub or cream-based scrub?
Well, both are equally good. If you have oily-acne prone skin then it's good to go for a foaming scrub and if your skin is dry, go for a cream-based scrub. Additionally, look for good active ingredients in your scrub.
[6] What is the right way to scrub my face?
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove topical (top layer dust) dirt and grime.
- Take out a little scrub in your palm, and start applying on a small section of your face like chin or forehead.
- Move fingers upward- outward in small circular motion. You can start with the forehead, then move to the chin and then cheeks.
- Do this for 2-3 mins (or follow pack instructions).
- Wash face with running water and pat dry with soft towel.
Bonus tip: It is a good idea to scrub in the evening. Our skin is very tender after scrubbing so it’s recommended to keep it away from sun-exposure for a few hours. If you have to scrub in the morning, use very good sun protection after the scrub.
Bonus bonus tip: For a parlour-style clean-up, follow up your scrub with a face mask! But do this not more than once a week.
And as always, feel free to write in if you have any more questions on anything skincare. You know where to reach us! Have a great day ahead & happy scrubbing!
Related Posts:
2-minute tutorials: Getting your face wash right
2-Minute Tutorials: How to Get a Perfect Cleanse
5 at-home skincare tricks for the weekend
Exfoliation - easy & rewarding
Related Products:
Grape Seed & Sea Buckthorn Mild Foam Scrub
