When it comes to using a face scrub, there are two camps of people on the internet - those who swear that scrubs are one of the worst things you could inflict upon your skin and the other camp that simply… uses them for the benefits of exfoliation. 

The truth is, facial scrubs aren't inherently bad for your skin - it’s often user error that leads to the common issues of redness, over-exfoliation, and irritation after using face scrubs. Remember - you’re not literally trying to scrub your acne or other perceived imperfections off of your face with these!  

While facial scrubs these days stand to be formulated with gentle, dissolvable exfoliating beads instead of plastic microbeads or walnut shells of the past, it’s still important to exfoliate with a light hand. 

We’ve rounded up our seven favourite facial scrubs that we think could find a spot in your skincare routine for smoother skin and an even-toned glow. 

7 Favourite Facial Scrubs to Try

These facial scrubs range from clinical brands such as Dermalogica to those with more of a clean beauty angle, such as Origins and Grown Alchemist. We’re sure that one of these will be your new favourite face exfoliator for helping to smooth away rough skin for a flawless glow! 

Origins GinZing™ Refreshing Scrub Cleanser

This refreshing facial exfoliator from Origins uses exfoliating beads of natural origin to buff your skin without costing the Earth. They’re created from Jojoba Esters and Carnauba Wax blend to create super smooth exfoliating granules that sweep away dead skin cells to reveal radiant, revitalised skin. 

What sets this face scrub apart from the rest is the addition of Panax Ginseng Extract. This skin-perfecting natural extract works hard to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin elasticity. 

This natural ingredient often appears on K-Beauty products but is starting to appear in Western products for the multitude of benefits it brings to the skin.

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

The Daily Microfoliant from Dermalogica is an iconic skincare product - and for a good reason. Technically, this facial scrub uses both gentle scrubbing particles and chemical exfoliants - but that’s what makes it such a fan favourite around the world. 

It has a powder formula that you can make into a paste with water or add to your regular favourite face wash. This facial exfoliator uses gentle natural plant cellulose to slough away dead skin cells. At the same time, a small amount of salicylic acid helps dissolve excess sebum for refined pores and shine-free skin. 

Juvena Pure Cleansing Refining Peeling

This ultra-gentle face scrub uses plant cellulose derived from bamboo stems as the exfoliating granules to sweep away dead skin. Ideal for all skin types - especially sensitive - the Juvena Pure Cleansing Refining Peeling facial scrub is perfect for smoothing congested skin texture and improving your skin’s glow. 

It’s also formulated with Hibiscus Extract, a naturally antioxidant-rich flower that helps defend skin against the harmful effects of pollution, making sure that your skin says glowing and preventing premature signs of ageing from free radicals.

Anne Semonin Exfoliating Mask

We’re fans of two-in-one products at beauty affairs - remember how skinimalism is trending now? This skin-smoothing mask from French brand Anne Semonin works as a purifying mask and face exfoliator, removing dead skin cells and brightening skin tone for a visible glow.

Red seaweed extract paired with exfoliating rice bran sloughs away anything that could block pores, refining skin and giving your skin a luminosity boost.

Dermalogica Multivitamin Thermafoliant

This thermal skin polisher from Dermalogica is ideal for those already on their anti-ageing journey; fortified with Retinol, this face exfoliator specifically targets the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for glowing skin.

Dermalogica Multivitamin Thermafoliant has a warming effect, helping to loosen pore blockages for clearer, glowing skin. It uses the power of both physical scrubbing granules and chemical exfoliants such as salicylic acid to refine skin and lend a glow.

Omorovicza Refining Facial Polisher

Using the power of natural Hungarian Silt and Thermal Water, this exfoliator scrub polishes away dead skin cells and nurtures skin to a radiant glow. These natural ingredients are packed with a unique blend of minerals that you’ll only find in this part of the world, making the Omorovicza Refining Facial Polisher quite the treat for your skin! 

It’s no wonder that the Hungarian Thermal Baths were considered some of the best health spas - and this rich heritage has made it into this facial scrub.

Dermalogica Hydro Masque Exfoliant

Another amazing two-in-one masque and exfoliator scrub hybrid, the Dermalogica Hydro Masque Exfoliant tackles the two most essential things for getting glowing skin: hydration and exfoliation. 

Packed with exfoliating bamboo particles, this multipurpose skincare product sweeps away dead skin cells to reveal a renewed radiance. It also infuses skin with Hyaluronic Acid, boosting your skin’s water content and improving luminosity for a radiant glow.

When Do You Use Face Scrub?

And the ultimate question: cleanser before or after face scrub?

You should be using your face exfoliator after cleansing - this means that you can get the most benefits for your skin!

Or, if you’re a skincare newbie that’s trying to create a skincare routine to start with, try our skin analysis.