We’ve got answers: “can i use a face scrub daily?” and 5 other questions

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

Green Tea Pore-Cleansing Face Wash

Green Tea Clear Face Mask

Grape Seed & Sea Buckthorn Renaissance Face Mask