If you’re looking for the best exfoliator for your face in the UK, look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 exfoliators recommended by UK dermatologists. Each of these products has been carefully selected to provide the most effective and gentle results, so you can be sure your skin will be in good hands. Keep reading to learn more about each of these products and why they’re the best exfoliator for your face in the UK!
What is an exfoliator?
If you’re looking to get smoother, brighter skin, exfoliation is an important part of your skincare routine.
But what exactly is an exfoliator?
Exfoliators are skincare products designed to gently remove the top layer of dead skin cells from your face. This helps to reveal a brighter, more even complexion and can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Exfoliation also helps to increase blood circulation in the skin, allowing better absorption of moisturisers and other skincare products.
When choosing an exfoliator, it is important to select one that is suited to your skin type. For those with dry skin, look for a gentle, non-abrasive exfoliator. Those with oily skin may benefit from an exfoliator with chemical or enzyme ingredients, such as lactic acid or papaya enzymes.
Exfoliating once or twice a week is recommended by most dermatologists; however, it’s important to note that over-exfoliating can damage your skin and make it more prone to irritation. As such, always listen to your skin’s needs when deciding how often to exfoliate.
Now that you know what an exfoliator is and why it is important, read on to discover the best exfoliators for your face, according to UK dermatologists.
What are the benefits of using an exfoliator?
When it comes to skincare, exfoliating is a crucial step that shouldn’t be skipped. Regular exfoliation helps keep your skin looking healthy and clear by removing dead skin cells and any other build-up on the surface of your skin. It also helps to keep your pores unclogged and can even reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Using an exfoliator regularly can also help improve your skin’s texture and tone, and give you a brighter complexion. Plus, it helps your other skincare products to work more effectively as they will be able to penetrate the skin more easily after exfoliation.
With so many different exfoliators available on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve asked UK dermatologists to weigh in on the best exfoliators for your face, so you can make an informed decision.
How often should you use an exfoliator?
Exfoliating your skin can help keep it looking fresh and glowing, but how often should you use an exfoliator? The answer depends on your skin type and the type of exfoliator you’re using.
For those with sensitive skin, exfoliation should be done no more than once or twice a week. Gentle, chemical exfoliators can be used more frequently than physical exfoliators such as scrubs. For those with normal to oily skin, you can exfoliate up to three times a week.
It’s important to listen to your skin and adjust accordingly. If you feel that your skin is feeling dry or irritated after exfoliating, then it’s time to reduce the frequency. Additionally, always follow up with a moisturiser after exfoliating to help replenish lost hydration and protect your skin from environmental damage.
When it comes to exfoliating your face, it’s important to choose the right product for your skin type and needs. Doing research into the ingredients and reading reviews can help you find the best product for you. And remember, if it feels too abrasive on your skin, it probably is – don’t be afraid to switch it up if it isn’t working for you.
What are the different types of exfoliators?
Let’s take a look at some of the different types of exfoliators and how they work:
- Physical Exfoliators – These exfoliators usually consist of small beads or granules that help to buff away dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. They are often formulated with natural ingredients such as jojoba beads, apricot kernel powder, and walnut shells.
- Chemical Exfoliators – These exfoliators work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed. Common ingredients in chemical exfoliators include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs). This helps to dissolve oils and impurities, leaving your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
- Enzymatic Exfoliators – These exfoliators use natural enzymes to gently break down the bonds between dead skin cells. Papaya, pumpkin, and pineapple enzymes are some of the most popular enzymatic exfoliators as they are gentle on the skin but still effective at removing dead skin cells.
- Face Scrubs – Face scrubs can be physical or chemical exfoliators and contain grains or particles that work to slough away dirt and dead skin cells. Popular face scrub ingredients include ground nut shells, coffee grounds, sugar crystals, and oatmeal flakes.
- Mask Exfoliators – These masks contain both physical and chemical exfoliants that help to remove dirt and debris from the skin. They usually have a creamy texture that is easy to spread over the face and can be left on for several minutes before being rinsed off.
No matter what type of exfoliator you choose, make sure to use it no more than once or twice a week to avoid over-exfoliating your skin. If your skin feels irritated after using any type of exfoliator, stop using it immediately and speak with your dermatologist if necessary.
Top 5 exfoliators recommended by UK dermatologists?
If you’re looking for the best exfoliator for your face, it’s important to turn to the experts. UK dermatologists have recommended the following five products as the best exfoliators on the market for your face.
- The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution 30ml: a potent formula that acts as a ten-minute exfoliating facial, helping to revitalise and tone the complexion’s appearance.
- La Roche-Posay Ultra Fine Scrub 50ml: Gently purifies and smooth’s all types of sensitive skin. The product has agents selected for optimal tolerance and a physiological pH. It is also enriched with La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water.
- Murad Aha/Bha Exfoliating Cleanser 200ml: Cleanse and smooth to refine your skin with the Hydration AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser from Murad. This gentle but efficient exfoliator works in two ways by dissolving dead skin cells and renewing the skin’s texture.
- ESPA Refining Skin Polish 55ml: Gentle but effective, this ultra-fine exfoliator works to draw impurities from the pores as it buffs away the top layer of dead skin cells, leaving the visage silky-smooth to the touch.
- Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel 50ml: The natural exfoliating fruit enzyme action of Papaya and Pineapple will smooth, brighten and clarify your complexion. This unique, non-granular Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel exfoliating cream has 7 active ingredients to repair and protect your skin.
These five products are all recommended by UK dermatologists as the best exfoliators for your face. Whether you have sensitive, oily or combination skin, these products are sure to provide you with effective exfoliation without compromising your skin’s health.
