Take a look at the bathrooms of Singaporean women and you’re guaranteed to find one (or two or three) facial scrubs. This is because as a result of growing up in the clammy weather of Singapore, most women (and men) crave that feeling of squeaky clean and smooth skin. And since hot and humid weather usually equal to sweaty skin, clogged pores and frequent break outs, many of us rely on face scrubs to give our skin the fastest and most fuss-free DIY facials.
While most face scrubs contain exfoliating beads to basically slough away dead skin cells that have accumulated on our skin, some physical exfoliators contain exfoliating granules that are made of crushed kernels, which can cause micro tears on skin’s surface and further irritate sensitive skin or aggravate blemishes. Here, some of the best and gentlest skin exfoliators to use for breakouts-prone skin:
Made with tiny exfoliating beads that are non-abrasive, it lifts dead skin cells without causing damage to compromised skin conditions, even when used daily. In addition, it is enriched with AHAs to provide gentle resurfacing benefits, unveiling brighter skin. Its sulfate-free formula also contains skin conditioning ingredients like glycerin, rice bran oil and panthenol to help retain moisture for soft and supple skin.
As its name suggests, this cleanser from Clinique packs chemical and physical exfoliants, thanks to papaya extract and natural bamboo beads, to eliminate dead skin cells, excess sebum and impurities. Plus, it creates a thick and cooling lather that’s also gentle enough to be used twice a day—perfect for those with combination or oily skin.
This super fine rice-based powder formula is activated once it comes into contact with water, creating a satisfying foam that contains papain (papaya-derived enzyme), salicylic acid and rice enzymes that unveils skin that is smoother, softer and brighter. At the same time, it contains the brand’s Skin Brightening Complex to combat uneven skin tone and pigmentation, and a soothing blend of colloidal oatmeal, green tea and ginkgo calms and strengthens the skin. And while it’s suitable for all skin types, those with congestion-prone skin will notice visible results fastest.
Unlike most physical exfoliants, this non-abrasive peel applies like a gel (on clean, dry skin) and after leaving it on for a few minutes, massage in circular motions as it gets rid of surface dead skin cells. Since there are no harsh exfoliating beads, it remains gentle on sensitive skin and angry blemishes. Moreover, it’s also packed with skin-protecting antioxidants to improve skin suppleness and texture.
Get one step closer to flawless skin with this refining face scrub. Formulated with vitamin A and purslane (the star ingredient in Dr Barbara Sturm’s skincare line), this helps to optimise cellular turnover so dull skin and fine lines are kept at bay. It is also enriched with skin-loving ingredients like horse chestnut, panthenol, jojoba oil and shea butter to replenish skin with moisture so there’s none of that uncomfortable tightness post-exfoliation.
The last thing you want to do to blemish-prone skin is to upset it further with a harsh formula that’s of a non-compatible pH. Look no further than this pH-balanced 2-in-1 cleanser/mask which does it all. Enriched with premium manuka honey and salicylic acid, it draws out impurities and refines the appearance of congested and enlarged pores. Thanks to the cocktail of supercharged ingredients, it also counters acne-causing bacteria, calms inflammation and boosts moisture levels to soothe problematic skin.
You’ll never have to worry about harsh granules with this ultra-fine exfoliating powder. When mixed with water, this transforms into a delightful foam to thoroughly cleanse skin gently. Using sugar extract and lotus seeds, skin’s texture is smoothed and refined for a clearer, brighter complexion.
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