Can I use a face scrub every day?

How often should you use a face scrub?

Once or twice a week is a ceiling, not a target you must reach. Scrubbing more aggressively can irritate skin rather than improve it. If a scrub causes irritation, back off instead of trying to get used to it. That same limit applies to exfoliating brushes; switching from granules to a tool does not make frequent abrasion a better plan.1

Daily cleansing and daily scrubbing are different decisions. A gentle cleanser removes dirt and dead skin without needing an exfoliating tool. A daily cleansing routine does not need a daily scrub attached, however much the bathroom shelf enjoys full attendance.3

What should you do instead each day?

1. 1Wash gently with a mild cleanser. If you have acne, choose one labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores, and wash morning and evening, plus after sweating.
2. 2Apply the cleanser lightly with your fingertips in a circular motion. Rinse gently with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel rather than rubbing.
3. 3Apply moisturizer after washing, morning and evening. For acne, choose a moisturizer made for skin prone to breakouts.
4. 4Finish your morning routine with sunscreen. Sunscreen comes after moisturizer, not before it.

Where does exfoliation fit?

If you choose to exfoliate, use an exfoliant or exfoliating cleanser as the first cleansing step rather than adding it after a separate cleanser. Cleansing and exfoliating do not need separate turns at the sink, despite the skincare industry's enthusiasm for expanding the agenda.3

Salt scrubs, sugar scrubs and specialized brushes can irritate skin. A chemical exfoliant containing glycolic acid is an alternative that helps remove dead skin and even out skin tone, used a couple of times a week rather than daily. Chemical exfoliation uses an ingredient instead of physical scrubbing. Do not turn the switch into an excuse to add several new products at once: using more products increases the chance of side effects.3

Will scrubbing clear blackheads or acne faster?

Scrubbing away blemishes or excess oil can cause more breakouts through irritation. Blackheads need treatment that unclogs pores, not harder washing. Salicylic acid helps break up dead skin cells and clear pores; adapalene can unclog pores and prevent new blackheads. A pharmacist can help you choose an acne treatment rather than replacing one scrub with another.125

Acne treatment takes time: use the same treatment for 6 to 8 weeks to see improvement. Do not add extra scrubbing while you wait. A gentle routine supports acne care, while repeated irritation can work against it.5

When should you stop or get help?

Stop using a product that causes skin irritation and arrange a dermatologist appointment. For acne, see a doctor if treatment is not helping, spots are deep or painful, or scars are developing. Hot, swollen and red skin can be signs of infection and also need medical assessment; redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin.23