How to make a face scrub at home

What will exfoliating actually do?

Physical exfoliation removes dead cells from the skin's outer layer. Removing that dull surface layer can improve skin's appearance and help unclog pores a little. It will not fix wrinkles. Exfoliation is a cosmetic choice, not an admission requirement for owning a face. If your routine works without it, there is no need to add a scrub.1

Scrubbing does not make your face cleaner, despite giving washing the atmosphere of a household chore. Irritation and inflammation can make pores look more noticeable rather than less. If your main goal is clean skin, use a gentle cleanser and warm water, not more friction.3

How to exfoliate gently at home

1. 1Check your skin and routine first. Do not exfoliate open cuts, wounds or sunburned skin. Retinol, prescription retinoids and benzoyl peroxide can make skin more sensitive or cause peeling.
2. 2Start with a simple washcloth to see how your skin responds to mild physical exfoliation. Do not rub hard.
3. 3If you choose a scrub instead, apply it gently in small circles for about 30 seconds, then rinse well with lukewarm water.
4. 4Apply moisturizer immediately afterward because exfoliation can dry your skin.
5. 5Protect your face every day with a broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

How often should you exfoliate?

Do not exfoliate every day. Two or three times a week is an upper limit, not a schedule you have to reach. Skin needs time to recover between sessions. Choose your frequency based on your skin and the method: stronger exfoliation needs to happen less often. There is no fixed number of days in which a homemade scrub will deliver smoother skin.14

Who should be careful with a face scrub?

Dry, sensitive or acne prone skin can find mechanical exfoliation too irritating. Oily, thicker skin can tolerate stronger methods, but that is not a reason to rub harder. Avoid aggressive exfoliation if you have a darker skin tone or develop dark spots after irritation. It can increase pigmentation, meaning darker patches on the skin. Exfoliating alongside retinol, prescription retinoids or benzoyl peroxide can worsen dryness or trigger breakouts.4

What can you use instead of a gritty scrub?

A gentle chemical exfoliant is another option. Hydroxy acids or salicylic acid dissolve excess dead skin cells instead of removing them through rubbing. Start with a lower concentration and consider stronger concentrations only if needed. Chemical exfoliants can still irritate sensitive skin; choosing a different method does not remove the need for restraint.1

Do not confuse a sugar scrub with sugaring paste. Sugaring uses a heated mixture of sugar, lemon and water to pull out hair, not a facial scrub recipe. After sugaring, avoid exfoliating scrubs and friction for at least a few days.5

When should you stop?

Stop exfoliating if your skin becomes red, irritated or chapped. Harsh physical exfoliation can aggravate inflamed acne, and both physical and chemical methods can cause irritation. If you are unsure whether exfoliation suits your skin, a dermatologist can help you decide whether to use it and which method to choose.14