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Face Scrubs

You have a great face scrub. In case you don't know, every minute your skin sheds around 30,000 dead skin cells. Imagine what that can do to your face in a week's time. As dead skin cells build up on the surface of the skin, it causes your naturally smooth, luminous complexion to become lackluster and splotchy. Using a face scrub for gentle exfoliation once a week you can slough away the dead skin and achieve the brilliant skin that you've been missing.

Types of Scrubs

A simple SPF moisturizer as they will make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.

Not Quite Scrubs

You've probably heard about chemical peels and dermabrasion kits. Both of these products are exfoliators, but they aren't exactly scrubs. * '''Chemical Peels''' use chemicals to exfoliate the skin. These are often more expensive and are only meant to be used one to three times a week depending on the formula. ** The gel formula that most peels use is meant to gently lift dirt from the pores, while removing dead surface skin. ** Most require leaving them on for a set period of time to allow them to dry. Then you can simply peel them off. Others use a series of pads or different formulas meant to mimic a professional chemical antioxidant peel. See the guide on Chemical Peels and Exfoliators for more information. ** Beware that home chemical peels may cause redness after usage but it will fade within a few hours. Because chemical peels tend to be harsh, always follow up any peel treatment with a good moisturizer and SPF lotion. ** Want to try the award winning glycolic peel of 2005? Try Lancome's Resurface Peel Resurfacing and Soothing System. * '''Microdermabrasion Scrubs''' are the newest in the exfoliating family and they are often expensive. They are recommended for those with maturing skin who want to try and reduce the number of visible fine lines, acne scars, dark spots or sun damage. See the guide on Microdermabrasion for more information. ** Many of these products come as kits, some of which include electronic devices that assist in a spa-like dermabrasion experience. ** They should be used less frequently than any of the other scrubs, from once a week to once a month. ** These products are usually not meant to be used in combination with prescription face medication. ** Microdermabrasion can be irritating to sensitive skin. Use caution when considering these products as they may cause breakouts, rashes or extreme redness.

Top Picks

What do people say about scrubs? Here are the top picks from various sites on the Web.

For Aging Skin

For Dry Skin

Sensitive/Acne-Prone

Organic Lovers

Choosing a Face Scrub

* '''Consider your budget'''. One of the first things that pops into the average consumer's head is cost. Can you afford to spend less than $10 more your style? Keep in mind that it's not the bucks you spend that will make your skin gorgeous, but getting the right formula for your needs. * '''Understand your needs'''. Your skin type will play a large part in what kind of scrub you'll need. Read more about the types of scrubs below to find out what will suit your skin best. Also keep in mind that aging skin may need something more intense than a daily scrub. Chemical peels and microdermabrasion kits may be used in place of a scrub for more profound effects or as a monthly addition to your skin care routine. Read more about Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peels by clicking on these links. * '''Know what makes a good scrub'''. If you are shopping online and reading reviews about scrubs, you should be aware of the following points. The granules should be fine and uniform so as not to injure the skin. Remember that while your feet can handle the likes of a pumice stone, your face is sensitive and fragile. Treat it with care and find a scrub that is capable of doing the same. Also remember that the scrub should rinse off easily and completely without leaving a residue.

Popular Brands

* Aveeno * Avon * Benefit * Burt's Bees * Clean and Clear * Clinique * Dr. Brandt * Fresh * Kiehls * La Mer * Lush * Mary Kay * Neutrogena * Peter Thomas Roth * Philosophy * Queen Helene

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