Can you use a face scrub every day?

How often should you use a face scrub?

Treat once or twice a week as a starting point, not a quota. The right frequency depends on your skin and the exfoliation method; stronger exfoliation needs less frequent use. Follow the product directions rather than adding extra sessions. A face scrub is an optional extra, not an admission fee for a skincare routine. Scrubs physically remove dead cells from the outer layer of skin, while chemical exfoliants use ingredients such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids to dissolve them.23

Who should skip a scrub?

Dry or sensitive skin can find physical exfoliation too irritating. If you have acne, avoid scrubbing: irritation can make acne worse. Oily, thicker skin can tolerate physical exfoliation better, but that does not make daily use necessary. Avoid aggressive exfoliation if you have darker skin or develop dark marks after irritation. Retinol, prescription retinoids and benzoyl peroxide can increase sensitivity or peeling; adding exfoliation can worsen dryness or trigger breakouts.34

How to use a face scrub

1. 1Check your skin before starting. Do not exfoliate sunburned skin or areas with open cuts or wounds.
2. 2Apply the scrub gently with small circular motions for about 30 seconds. Do not press harder to increase the effect.
3. 3Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, not hot water.
4. 4Apply moisturizer immediately afterward.
5. 5If you exfoliate in the morning, finish your routine with sunscreen. Use broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher.

What should you use on the other days?

Use a gentle cleanser rather than repeating the scrub. Daily washing and daily scrubbing are different jobs, despite sharing shelf space. Washing removes the dirt, oil and dead cells that accumulate on your face. Use your hands to wash gently rather than adding an abrasive tool. Avoid salt scrubs, sugar scrubs and specialized cleansing brushes, which can irritate skin. If you have acne, wash twice daily with a gentle cleanser instead of trying to scrub the spots away.456

What if you want fewer blackheads or smoother skin?

For blackheads, salicylic acid is a treatment option rather than a reason to scrub more often. A salicylic acid wash can be used daily for blackheads, with strength reduced if it causes dryness; that is different from using a physical scrub every day. For aging skin, gentle exfoliation once or twice weekly can help skin look refreshed, and chemical exfoliation is a better option than physical exfoliation for aging concerns. Hydration and daily sun protection remain priorities.12

Does shaving change the advice?

A gentle scrub can help release trapped ingrown hairs. If you are prone to ingrown hairs during the stubble stage, use a gentle scrub once or twice weekly and moisturize immediately afterward. Daily scrubbing is not part of that routine. Shaving in the direction of hair growth and avoiding a very close shave can also help. Do not pick or squeeze ingrown hairs, because that can damage skin and lead to infection.67

When should you stop?

Stop using the scrub if irritation develops and arrange a dermatologist appointment. Seek medical advice for acne that is not improving, is deep or painful, or is leaving scars. An ingrown hair that becomes very painful, hot or swollen also needs medical attention, especially if you have a fever or feel unwell.457