Men's Facial Exfoliators and Scrubs

The skin is constantly regenerating by creating new skin cells to replace dead ones. Although your skin is doing its part to give you great-looking skin, the dead skin cells it sheds need a little help in coming off the skin. This is where exfoliators and scrubs come in. They work to remove dead skin cells and bring out the new skin layer for healthier-looking skin. Scroll down to read more on what exfoliators and scrubs are, why men need them, their benefits, when and how to use them.

What are exfoliators and scrubs?

Exfoliators and scrubs are two skincare products used to cleanse the skin. They contain various ingredients, like acids, enzymes, salts, sugars, beads, and oils.

Exfoliators are designed to remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. Its ingredients work by loosening the bonds that hold dead cells together on the surface of your skin, which helps them fall off more easily. Scrubs are also a type of exfoliator, but they're not as gentle as exfoliators since they contain more abrasive particles like sugar or salt (some may contain less abrasive particles like jojoba beads).

Both exfoliators and scrubs have their benefits and drawbacks, so it's best to know what you need before choosing one over the other by consulting a dermatologist, especially if you have a skin condition.

Why do men need exfoliators and scrubs?

Men typically need to shave their face regularly, and this means they need a deeper cleanse and need to have a consistent and good face care routine to avoid ingrown hairs. This is why men need exfoliators and scrubs to get rid of the dead cells, which can lead to clogged pores and acne.

Ingrown hairs are a common problem for many men who shave and those who don’t shave. They happen when the hair on the skin starts to grow back into the skin instead of out of it. The hair can become trapped under the skin and start to grow inwards, causing irritation and redness. Facial scrubs and exfoliators can help prevent ingrown hairs by removing dead cells on the surface of your skin which clogs pores and leads to ingrown hairs. This will result in much clearer and healthier-looking skin.

What are the benefits of exfoliators and scrubs?

• Help in removing blackheads, whiteheads and sebum from the pores.
• Remove dirt that clogs pores which can cause acne breakouts or other skin problems.
• Cleanse your pores thoroughly, which will help in absorbing facial serums and treatments for healthier skin. 

When should you exfoliate or scrub the skin?

It is recommended by various skin specialists that men exfoliate or scrub the skin a maximum of two to three times a week (source). This is because men’s skin tends to be thicker than the skin of women (source), and it can accumulate more sebum and dead cells. Men should also be careful not to over-exfoliate or over-scrub their skin, as this can lead to dryness and irritation.

How should men use face exfoliators?

• First, cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser to remove excess dirt, oil, and any other impurities from your skin.
• Apply a small amount of exfoliating cream or scrub to your face.
• Massage the exfoliator cream into your skin using circular motions and leave it on. If using a scrub, gently massage it into your skin, making sure not to be too harsh or rough.
• Wait the recommended time and then rinse off with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
• Use an SPF moisturiser as you would regularly.

Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.