This week the BEAUTYDIRECTORY team put face and body exfoliants to the test. From physical scrubs to chemical combinations that remove impurities, read on to discover how each product fared.
Neutrogena Deep Clean Purifying Cooling Gel Scrub – Zoë.
What it is: a cooling gel scrub specifically designed to target skin impurities
My experience: Because of my super sensitive skin I have always been hesitant to try exfoliants, but this gentle exfoliant from Neutrogena has totally quelled my fears. The cooling gel feels refreshing on my skin; and while this scrub promises to decongests pores from trapped dirt, makeup and oil, it doesn’t feel drying. My skin was actually left feeling soft and fresh.
Ultraceuticals Ultra Gentle Exfoliating Gel – Steph
What it is: A gel consistency blend of lactic and salicylic acids that work to remove surface impurities, unclog pores and reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.
My experience: I have dry skin and pigmentation as my major skin care concerns so exfoliants are a really important part of my routine. This gel is lightweight and I really like that there isn’t any harsh and abrasive particles in the formula – just really fine microspheres that are gentle on the skin. Using two to three nights a week I’ve found my skin is looking really radiant, smooth and a lot brighter.
Sukin Revitalising Facial Scrub – Jess
What it is: A sulphate and paraben free face scrub with bamboo and ground walnut shells, with aloe vera, rosehip and chamomile.
My experience: This exfoliant is great for when you feel like your skin needs a good, deep scrub. While this would too harsh to use over-frequently, once or twice a week will leave your skin feeling fresh and baby soft. I also love that it has rosehip oil in it, as it helps the skin feel even smoother. Perfect to use before a face mask because it scrubs away all the old skin, meaning the mask can penetrate deeper and more effectively. This facial scrub will definitely have a place in my regular exfoliating routine.
Ella Baché Refining Exfoliating Gel – Emily
What it is: an exfoliating gel formulated with natural cranberry seeds to exfoliate dead skin cells to revitalise, brighten and smooth the skin.
My experience: I love this exfoliant! I have been using it twice a week and have instantly noticed the change in the texture of my skin. The thick gel soothes the skin, while the cranberry seeds gently exfoliate the dead skin cells. I love that a natural ingredient (cranberry seed) is used instead of microbeads to reduce the impact on the environment. This has become a staple in my skincare regime!
Bioré Baking Soda Acne Scrub – Tiarne
What it is: A face scrub formulated for combination, acne prone skin.
My experience: This product is amazing! I’ve been using it about twice a week (sometimes more) and have noticed a significant difference in my acne-prone skin. My usual breakouts have subsided greatly, and my skin feels softer, cleaner and healthier. The formula is gentle, yet also exfoliating and has a beautiful, light citrus scent that’s not overpowering. A lot goes a long way – all you need is a pea-sized amount to spread over the entire face. I also love that it’s made with baking soda, so cool! Will definitely be repurchasing this and recommending it to friends with acne/combination skin types.
LYCON Body Exfoliant
What it is: a body scrub that buffs dry skin and dead cells, unblocks congested pores and helps uncover and dislodge ingrown hairs.
My experience: The first thing I noticed about this scrub – before the scent or feel – is that on the top of the tube it says ‘Plastic Bead Free’. Instead of plastic microbeads this Lycon scrub uses bamboo polishing fibres – better for our oceans and for your skin. The grapefruit and lemon scented exfoliant foams nicely and doesn’t dry-out skin or leave irritation. Heading into the warmer months this creamy body exfoliant is the perfect product to buff and smooth skin – I’d almost go as far to say it’s a summer beauty must-have.