Let’s Get Gritty: Best Facial Exfoliants—Scrubs, Acids, & Hybrid Treatments for Glowing Skin
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You know that dull layer of skin that soaks up your serum before it even has a chance to shine? Yeah—it’s not cute, and it’s definitely not helping your glow goals.
If your face has been feeling a little blah, rough, or just generally over it, chances are you need to exfoliate. But what’s the best way to do that without making your skin angry?
Let’s break it down:
There are physical scrubs (think grainy face washes), chemical exfoliants (acids and enzymes that do the work for you), and your hybrid heroes that bring the best of both worlds.
Here’s how they each work, the pros and cons, and the glow-up potential of each—complete with some of my go-to faves (and one OG I used to love but officially broke up with).
Chemical Exfoliants: Smooth Skin Science
Product spotlight: IMAGE Skincare Resurfacing Masque
This mask is like a mini facial in a tube. It blends glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid—a triple acid threat that chemically dissolves dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and stimulates collagen. Toss in papaya enzymes to gently munch away flakes and vitamin C to brighten dullness, and you’ve got yourself an at-home resurfacing powerhouse.
Bonus points: It also has tiny jojoba beads for a mild buff, making it a light scrub-acid hybrid.
Pros:
Deep exfoliation without scrubbing
Great for hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and texture
Results start in about a week and keep improving for 4–6 weeks
Cons:
Might tingle or cause sensitivity on first use
Needs to be used just 1–2x a week (and always use a vitamin rich moisturizer after!)
Physical Facial Scrubs: My Old-School OG
Product spotlight: St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Green Tea Scrub
This one’s a throwback. St. Ives Green Tea Scrub was my OG go-to—a tried-and-true classic I loved back in the day. It’s got 1% salicylic acid to keep breakouts at bay, plus finely milled walnut shell and bamboo powder to manually slough off dry patches. It also includes green tea extract to calm and reduce redness.
But these days? I’ve retired it. It still works, but my skin’s evolved—and I prefer gentler or more targeted formulas now.
Pros:
Instant gratification: smooth skin in one wash
Helps fight blackheads and excess oil
Budget-friendly and satisfying if you like a scrubby feel
Cons:
Not ideal for sensitive skin or acne-prone areas
Manual exfoliation can irritate or damage skin over time if overused, so make sure to use a light amount and be gentle.
Best of Both Worlds: 2-in-1 Exfoliator for Smooth, Radiant Skin
Product spotlight: ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Cleanser
This one’s a multitasker—designed to deep clean, gently exfoliate, and calm your skin without stripping it. It blends salicylic acid (to dissolve gunk inside pores) with jojoba beads (for light physical polishing), plus niacinamide and vitamin E to soothe and hydrate.
It’s gentle enough to use very other day but strong enough to keep congestion away. Think of it as a glow reset button—especially if you’re a little oily or breakout-prone.
Pros:
Daily-safe exfoliation that clears and softens
Fights dullness, texture, and clogged pores
Leaves skin feeling fresh, clean, and not tight
Cons:
Pricier than drugstore options
Not as dramatic as a once-a-week mask, but more consistent results over time
Whether you're all about that tingle, love a good scrub, or want something in between, the key is knowing your skin and choosing what supports it best. Exfoliating isn’t just about sloughing off dead skin—it’s about revealing the bright, smooth skin that’s been waiting underneath.
Exfoliation Must-Knows
Stay Hydrated – Drink water to help your skin bounce back and flush out toxins.
Moisturize After – Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer post-exfoliation to soothe and protect.
Don’t Overdo It – 1–3x per week max (depending on your skin type). Over-exfoliating can damage your barrier.
Wear SPF (Always!) – Freshly exfoliated skin is more sensitive to UV rays—daily sunscreen is a must.
Be Gentle – No harsh scrubbing. Let the product do the work, not your pressure.
Clean Skin First – Start with a clean, makeup-free face for the best results.
Avoid Other Actives After – Skip strong retinols, AHAs, or peels right after to avoid irritation.
Listen to Your Skin – If you’re red, flaky, or stingy, give your face a break.
Avoid Hot Water – Lukewarm water helps prevent stripping the skin barrier.
Use a Clean Towel – Pat (don’t rub!) dry with a soft, clean towel to avoid bacteria or friction.
Happy exfoliating, glow seekers. And don’t forget the moisturizer & SPF.
Breaking Up with Bar Soap: My Salicylic Acid Cleanser Picks for Clear Skin
It all begins with an idea.
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Night Routine
Morning Routine
Exfoliaton Routine
Old Routine
For over 20 years, I was loyal to one humble skincare staple: the Dove Unscented Beauty Bar. It was gentle, non-stripping, fragrance-free, and never gave me a reason to doubt it—even when my skin was throwing cystic acne tantrums. It felt safe, especially for someone with sensitive, acne-prone skin. But as I hit my late 30s, my skin changed… and so did my skincare needs.
That’s where gentle cleansers formulated with key ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid come in. These modern cleansers are designed to gently exfoliate, remove dead skin cells, and unclog pores—without wrecking your moisture barrier. Whether you have oily skin, dry skin, or combination skin, choosing the right cleanser for your skin type and concerns is essential for a healthy, effective skincare routine. A good cleanser can also help remove makeup, making it a versatile addition to your skin care routine. So, if you’re ready to give your skin the gentle care it deserves, remember that choosing the right wash is an important part of an effective skin care routine.
What’s Wrong with Bar Soap? (A Quick Cleanser Reality Check)
Let’s be honest: bar soap might be a classic, but it’s not always your skin’s best friend—especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. Traditional bar soaps can be surprisingly harsh, often stripping away your skin’s natural oils and leaving it feeling dry, tight, or even irritated. This is especially true if your bar soap contains ingredients like cocamidopropyl betaine, which can trigger irritation for some people.
When your skin loses too much moisture, it can actually make acne, dryness, or combination skin issues worse. Instead of helping, bar soap can disrupt your skin’s delicate balance, leading to more breakouts, clogged pores, and a rougher skin texture.
So, if you’re still reaching for that old-school bar, it might be time to add a targeted cleanser to your bag and give your skin the gentle care it deserves.
Understanding Skin Types
Before you add any new cleanser to your skincare routine, it’s crucial to know your skin type. Why? Because the right products can make all the difference in your skin’s texture, tone, and overall health. There are a few main skin types: normal skin (balanced, not too oily or dry), dry skin (often feels tight or flaky), oily skin (prone to excess oil and shine), and combination skin (a mix of oily and dry areas).
If you have dry skin, look for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip away moisture. Oily skin types might benefit from a gel-based cleanser that helps control excess oil and keeps pores clear. Sensitive skin? Fragrance-free and gentle formulas are your best bet to avoid irritation. And if you’re dealing with combination skin, you may need to experiment to find a cleanser that balances both dry and oily areas.
Understanding your skin type helps you choose skincare products that target your specific concerns—whether that’s improving skin texture, reducing irritation, or evening out your tone. The right cleanser can help you achieve smoother, healthier-looking skin, no matter where you fall on the skin type spectrum.
What is Salicylic Acid Anyway?
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that works by penetrating deep into pores to dissolve excess oil, dead skin cells, and the gunk that leads to breakouts. Unlike alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which stay on the surface and exfoliate the top layer of skin helping to improve issues like fine lines and sun damage. BHAs like salicylic acid can penetrate deeper into pores but also act on the skin’s surface. Translation? BHAs are built for deep, pore-level work—perfect for blackheads, whiteheads, and acne-prone skin.
Salicylic acid is often derived from sources like white willow extract, a natural source of this beta hydroxy acid. Some cleansers use white willow as a natural alternative to synthetic salicylic acid.
Why It’s a Game Changer
Once I started using a gel-based fragrance-free salicylic acid (BHA) cleanser—Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Facial Cleanser—I noticed some serious shifts in my skin:
Fewer clogged pores, especially around my nose and chin
Smoother skin texture (goodbye, random bumpiness)
More effective oil control throughout the day
Better absorption of serums and moisturizers that followed
For someone who’s deals with deep, painful cystic acne and is now navigating fine lines too (because aging and breakouts apparently don’t cancel each other out), salicylic acid has become a bit of a skincare superhero. Choosing a cleanser with the right ingredients can help address multiple skin concerns, such as acne, dullness, and early signs of aging.
I’ll be real—I still get the occasional cystic breakout. But they show up less often, don’t stick around as long, and heal faster than they used to. Finding the right gentle BHA cleanser, like Paula’s Choice, has made all the difference without wrecking my moisture barrier in the process.
Exfoliation and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Exfoliation is one of those skincare steps that can truly transform your skin’s appearance and texture. By removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, you help reveal a brighter, smoother complexion and keep pores from getting clogged. That’s where alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) come in. These hydroxy acids—like glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, and citric acid—work by gently breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, making it easier for them to slough off.
AHAs are especially great for improving uneven skin tone, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and helping to fade sun damage. If you’re acne-prone, beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid are your go-to for getting deep into pores and tackling breakouts at the source. AHA exfoliating products are a great weekly item to help brighten dull skin, boost cell turnover, and smooth out texture—without overdoing it.
My weekly go-to AHA exfoliator is the IMAGE Skincare Total Resurfacing Masque.
Incorporating exfoliating acids into your routine—whether it’s glycolic acid for smoother texture, lactic acid for gentle hydration, or salicylic acid for unclogging pores—can help reduce the appearance of uneven skin, brighten your tone, and keep your skin looking fresh. Just remember: start slow, listen to your skin, and always follow up with SPF, since exfoliation can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
But Wait—Too Much of a Good Thing?
When I first started experimenting, I made the classic mistake: trying a 2% salicylic acid toner, a salicylic acid cleanser, and a spot treatment—all in one day. The result? My sensitive skin revolted. I ended up with tightness, flaking, and full-on irritation that made me look more lizard than luminous.
Worse? I triggered one of the worst cystic breakouts I’d had in months. It was a harsh reminder that even ingredients with great reputations can backfire if you overdo them—especially with sensitive, acne-prone skin.
Lesson learned: salicylic acid is powerful, but it’s still an acid. Overuse can strip your skin, disrupt your barrier, and cause more breakouts instead of fewer. Now I keep it simple, use it consistently (but gently with a 0.5% salicylic acid), and let my skin breathe between actives.
How to Choose the Right Cleanser
Finding the perfect cleanser can feel overwhelming, but it’s one of the most important steps in any skincare routine—especially if you have acne prone skin. The right cleanser does more than just remove dirt and excess oil; it sets the stage for everything else in your routine by addressing your unique skin concerns and supporting your skin’s natural exfoliation process.
Start by considering your skin type. If you have oily skin or struggle with frequent breakouts, look for a cleanser with salicylic acid—a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that can gently exfoliate, unclog pores, and help reduce the appearance of acne. Salicylic acid works deep within the pores to dissolve oil and dead skin cells, making it a powerhouse for improving skin texture and keeping blemishes at bay.
For those with normal skin or combination skin, a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser is ideal. These formulas effectively remove oil and impurities without stripping your skin’s natural moisture, helping to maintain a balanced, healthy appearance. If your skin is on the sensitive side, opt for cleansers that are free from harsh additives and focus on soothing, gentle ingredients.
Dry skin types should choose a hydrating, creamy cleanser that removes dirt without stripping natural oils. Look for ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid, which help attract and lock in moisture. Avoid foaming or gel cleansers with sulfates, as they can dry your skin out even more.
I love my BHA cleansers, but don’t overlook the benefits of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid and lactic acid. These hydroxy acids work on the skin’s surface to gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, revealing a smoother skin tone and texture. Incorporating a cleanser with these key ingredients can help address uneven tone, dullness, and rough patches—without over-drying or irritating your skin.
Ultimately, the best cleanser for you is one that fits your skin type, addresses your main concerns, and feels gentle enough for daily use. Pay attention to how your skin responds, and don’t be afraid to adjust your routine as your needs change. With the right cleanser in your bag, you’ll be well on your way to clearer, healthier-looking skin.
The Importance of Moisturizing
No matter your skin type—whether you’re dealing with acne prone skin, oily skin, dry skin, or sensitive skin—moisturizing is a non-negotiable step in your skincare routine. After cleansing, your skin needs hydration and protection to maintain its barrier and defend against sun damage and environmental stressors.
Choosing the right moisturizer starts with understanding your skin’s needs. For oily or acne prone skin, reach for a lightweight, oil-free formula that hydrates without clogging pores or causing breakouts. If you have dry skin, look for richer creams packed with key ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and soothe any tightness or flakiness. Sensitive skin types should stick to gentle, fragrance-free options that calm and nourish without irritation.
Vitamin C is another powerhouse ingredient to look for—it helps brighten your skin tone and can reduce the appearance of uneven skin and fine lines. When applying your moisturizer, gently massage or pat and press (The Brian Method) it into your skin, making sure to cover your entire face and neck. This not only helps the product absorb better but also boosts circulation for a healthy glow. And don’t forget to rinse your hands thoroughly before you start, so you’re not transferring any dirt or bacteria onto your freshly cleansed skin.
My daily go-to is Perricone MDs Hypoallergenic Clean Correction Barrier Repair Nourishing Moisturizer.
By making moisturizer a regular part of your routine, you’ll help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, keep your skin looking smooth and radiant, and support your skin’s overall health—no matter what life (or your skin) throws your way.
My Current Routine (and What I’ve Learned)
I still love my Dove bar—it’s earned a permanent spot in my skincare memory book—but I’ve now swapped it out for Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Facial Cleanser, it’s 0.5 BHA with no added fragrance or stripping sulfates. I use it once a day—at night—followed by a soothing moisturizer that replenishes hydration. Then I use Clinique's Salicylic Acid Clearing Gel Acne Treatment as an acne treatment.
In the daytime, I rinse my face with warm water and use Clearasil's Salicylic Acid 5-in-1 Facial Cleansing Pads, followed by an spf moisturizer to protect and hydrate.
The biggest change? My skin feels cleaner, but not tight. Breakouts are less frequent, and my pores finally feel like they’re breathing a little easier.
Final Thoughts
If you’re like me—navigating that weird intersection of adult acne and aging—salicylic acid can be a real game changer. Just don’t go overboard. Start slow, patch test, and listen to your skin.
Sometimes breaking up with a longtime routine (like my trusty Dove bar) is hard… but growth, and glow, often come from trying something new.
Clearer days ahead.
—Brian
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