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How Do I Choose the Best Face Exfoliant?

Kesha Ward
Kesha Ward

The type of exfoliant you select to use on your skin will largely depend on your skin type. If your skin is normal — a skin type usually described as neither very dry nor very oily — look for an exfoliant that has small granules to gently polish the skin. If your skin is sensitive or prone to acne, you have to be a bit more selective and pay attention to product labels. Your goal is to choose a face exfoliant that contains ingredients that will reveal fresher, healthier skin without causing irritation. If you happen to have oily skin, on the other hand, try to avoid using a face exfoliant that contains oils.

Before shopping for a face exfoliant or any skin care product, it is important that you first know your skin type. If you have never been to an aestheticism or dermatologist, you may be able to visit your local cosmetics counter to have an experienced skin care therapist take a look at your skin and determine your skin type. There are four major skin types: normal, sensitive, oily, and dry. Your skin could be any of these types or a combination of several.

White sugar is an inexpensive yet effective exfoliator for the face.
White sugar is an inexpensive yet effective exfoliator for the face.

There are a countless skin care products and finding the best face exfoliant may seem like a huge task. You can make the process easier by making an appointment with a skin care professional. At the appointment, the skin therapist will take a look at your skin and make product suggestions. You should also consider getting a facial so you can see how your skin reacts to the suggested products. It is normal to experience mild irritation after a facial or use of a new product but that initial irritation should clear up in a week or less.

There are a number of new skin care companies with an online presences. These companies often offer free samples of products to give new customers an opportunity to use the product before committing with a purchase. Normally all you will be required to receive the samples is to pay shipping costs. When trying a face exfoliant for the first time, read the instructions and use as recommended by the manufacturer. Improper use of any skin care product can lead to irritation and damage to the skin.

If your skin tends to be sensitive, test the face exfoliant on a small area before applying all over your face. Rub a small amount of it on the back of your arm and leave the product on for 24 hours. If you experience any redness or a rash, that is an indication your skin will not respond favorably to the product and you should avoid using the exfoliant on your face and discontinue use altogether.

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    • White sugar is an inexpensive yet effective exfoliator for the face.
      By: bit24
      White sugar is an inexpensive yet effective exfoliator for the face.