Exfoliation is a simple process that involves removing dead skin and unclogging dermal pores to give you dazzling, spotless skin. This simple skincare routine rejuvenates skin tone and texture while eliminating pimples, breakouts, acne, and other facial blemishes. Proper exfoliation doesn’t happen on its own - it involves the intentional use of skincare products like facial exfoliating pads. These pads, sometimes known as face scrubbers, are slightly abrasive materials infused with exfoliants like Alpha-hydroxy and Beta-hydroxy acids. They also contain other ingredients that enhance their anti-aging effect and reduce inflammation.
Selecting the best facial exfoliating pad is never easy. There are literally millions of them out there, and you must be careful not to choose something that will irritate your skin or have adverse effects. You will learn about all the intricate details about face scrubbers in this buying guide, and with that information, you can walk into any cosmetics store and make the right choice.
What are the active ingredients in a facial exfoliating pad?
Certain substances are responsible for the exfoliating effect of face scrubbers, and while they combine to achieve the same goal, some are more important than others. Before choosing any exfoliating pad, ensure that it contains proteolytic enzymes, alpha-hydroxy acids like lactic, mandelic, or glycolic acid, and beta-hydroxy acids like salicylic acid. These are the major exfoliants. For anti-aging effects, always go for face scrubbers with aloe vera extracts, Vitamin A, C, E, or B3. To enjoy a soothing, moisturizing effect, select exfoliating pads that contain amino acids, glycerols, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid.
Are all facial exfoliating pads scented?
The best facial exfoliating pads are unscented - and for good reason. Scent ingredients, especially artificial ones, have a history of causing skin reactions, which is why many face scrubbers exclude them. Some new brands have come up with fragrant exfoliating products with mint, eucalyptus, and other natural scents with a low risk of triggering skin reactions. However, if you have sensitive skin or an allergic reaction to sharp smells, it is best to avoid scented facial exfoliating pads.
How do I choose an exfoliating pad for dry and oily skin types?
Having to search for skin-specific exfoliating pads might waste your time and energy; plus, they might be a little heavy on the pocket when you do find them. So, it is advisable to go choose exfoliating pad brands that work perfectly on both dry and oily skin. This all-skin compatibility is usually written in the description, and you should have no problem spotting it. If you want, you can go for skin-specific exfoliating pads. They are just as potent as the alternative.
What are the active anti-inflammatory ingredients in a facial exfoliating pad?
Anti-inflammatory ingredients prevent the onset of skin reactions or reduce them to the bare minimum. The primary anti-inflammatory ingredient in a facial exfoliating pad is Salicyclic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, so make sure it is an ingredient in your face scrubber of choice. Other potent anti-inflammatory agents to look out for in face scrubbers include green tea, calendula extracts, and allantoin.
What are exfoliating pads made of?
Most exfoliating pads are made of cotton, silicone, or sponge material, and the best option to go for boils down to preference. What makes cotton an excellent choice is its hypoallergenic nature, meaning it is relatively unlikely to trigger a skin reaction. It is also tender and more gentle on the skin. Sponge material is also soft to the skin, plus, it is an excellent absorbent. There are a lot of takes on the use of silicone exfoliating pads, majorly due to allergies and skin reactions. Despite this, you can go for 100% natural silicone facial exfoliating pads that are safer than synthetic ones.
Are exfoliating pads abrasive?
Most exfoliating pads are slightly coarse to mechanically remove dead skin cells and unclog pores while driving in active exfoliating ingredients. So, yes. Exfoliating pads are abrasive. However, if your skin is susceptible to abrasive objects, we recommend that you go for softer and smoother face scrubbers.
Facial Exfoliating Pad FAQ
Q: Are exfoliating pads only meant for the face?
A: Most exfoliating pads are made exclusively for facial application. However, some scrubbers can be applied to other parts of the body like the neck, arms, legs, and back. If you want to exfoliate your body and not just your face, there are many market options to explore.
Q: Should I exfoliate every day?
A: This is a million-dollar question with an answer that depends on skin types. If your skin is highly sensitive, then daily exfoliation is not advisable because of potential skin irritations. If your skin doesn’t mind daily scrubbing, you’re good to go! Some experts even say that everyday exfoliation is better than exfoliating two to three times a week.
Q: How long does it take to see results from exfoliating?
A: If an exfoliator is compatible with your skin, you should start noticing significant results from 3 weeks of consistent application. However, you may experience slight changes in skin tone and texture within the first 24 hours of use.
Q: How much do facial exfoliating pads cost?
A: Skin exfoliators don’t usually come with a heavy price tag. They averagely cost about $10, but the top-tier brands may cost up to $150 or more. It is advisable to buy slightly more expensive brands for the best results - they are better formulated to give you dazzling skin without causing irritations.