Using state-of-the-art cleansers, lotions and creams is all very well, but if your skin is submerged in a build-up of blocked pores and dead skin cells, those high-performance potions aren’t going to seep very far beneath the skin’s surface. Facial exfoliators ensure that your moisturisers, serums and cleansers are able to work their magic by giving them a clear surface to work on.
As well as freeing your skin of troublesome dead cells and excess sebum (natural oils and grease), regular facial exfoliation can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, not to mention giving your pores a chance to breathe, which reduces the odds of spontaneous breakouts.
The trick, however, is not to get too carried away. Scrubbing too vigorously or using the wrong type of facial exfoliator for your skin type can actually damage your complexion, accentuating red patches and unnecessarily agitating sensitive areas.
Often people with mature or overly oily skin will opt for a heavy-duty exfoliator, in an effort to tackle the onset of wrinkles and excessively blocked pores head on, but this is a common mistake which can make the problem worse and ravage your skin in the process. Instead, opt for a gentle facial exfoliator that will minimise pores and fine lines without irritating the skin.
Surprisingly all skin types, regardless of individual concerns, can benefit from finer spherical grains crafted from naturally-sourced ingredients – opposed to the jagged grains found in more chemically-enhanced concoctions.
Whether you have dry, sensitive, dull or even clear skin, your perfect facial exfoliator awaits…
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, R850 for 75g
Best for: Problem skin
With celebrity fans such as Victoria Beckham and Cameron Diaz, the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant has a proven track record for fixing problem skin. Gentle enough to use daily, this ultra-fine exfoliator will lift dirt without stripping the skin. Great for oily skin with clogged pores.
Clarins Gentle Refiner Exfoliating Cream R355 for 50ml
Best for: Dull skin
Ultra-fine but hard-working, Clarins Gentle Refiner Exfoliating Cream will refresh and revive dull skin. Great for those with large pores and an uneven skin tone, this scrub will refine the texture of your skin to reveal a smooth and flawless base.
Clinique 7-Day Scrub Cream, R325 for 100ml
Best for: All skin types
Clinique’s famous 7-day Scrub Cream is great for all skin types, leaving a soft base to apply make-up. Moisturiser is more easily absorbed and skin looks brighter and more radiant with regular use.
Esse Microderm Exfoliator
Best for: Sun damaged and mature skin R230
Repair the skin’s UV barrier while adding moisture and elasticity – the rooibos extract is great for decreasing pigmentation from sun damage.
