8 Exfoliating Products That Will Give You That Glow, Without Damaging Your Skin

Last month, Kylie Jenner launched her skincare line – and everyone was immediately up in arms about the inclusion of a walnut face scrub.

Why? Well, walnut scrubs aren’t exactly gentle, with dermatologists warning that they can cause ‘micro-tears’ to the skin.

So if you aren’t supposed to put that on your face, what should you be using to exfoliate? Here are a few options, from acids to rice powders to micro-crystals.

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, €59.50

If you still like a bit of a physical scrub, you’ll enjoy this rice powder exfoliant from Dermalogica. Simply empty a little of the powder onto wet hands, rub together to create a paste, and gently massage your face in circular motions. As the name suggests, it’s gentle enough for daily use.

Dr G Brightening Peeling Gel, approx €17 from Amazon

Would you like the satisfaction of seeing dead skin cells roll right off your skin? Try this K-Beauty product that’s received rave reviews on Amazon. After use, your face feels clean and bright, but not dry or tight. Hey, that’s a poem.

Pixi Glow Tonic, €23.50

The cult product that introduced many of us to the wonders of chemical exfoliants is still one of the best out there. It contains 5% glycolic acid, which works to remove dead skin and unclog pores. Just remember to wear SPF every day – acid exfoliants increase sun sensitivity, so protect your gorgeous new skin.

Penneys x Alex Steinherr Pollution Solution Exfoliating Pads, €6

These exfoliating pads contain lactic acid and PHA (polyhydroxy acids) to gently lift away dead skin and other skin-dulling pollutants, leaving you with a glowing face. And you get 60 of them for only €6!

Alpha H Liquid Gold, £33.50 from Cult Beauty

Billing itself as an ‘overnight facial’, this powerful liquid works wonders as you sleep – skin looks smoother, more even, and super radiant, and any little bumps and blemishes are sorted out sharpish.

Boots No7 Total Renewal Micro-Dermabrasion Exfoliator, €6

Micro-dermabrasion is a pricey dermatological treatment that uses micro-crystals to refine the skin – and for six whole euro, you can get a piece of that at home. Massage it on to clean skin twice a week and your skin will look brand new.

The Ordinary Lactic Acid, €6.50 from Arnotts

This little potion comes in two strengths – if you’re new to the AHA game you can go for the 5% Lactic Acid, and if you’re an old pro, try the 10%. It should help target uneven texture, pigmentation from acne scars, and fine lines.

Origins Original Skin mask, €24 from Arnotts

This two-in-one mask deep cleans with pink clay and exfoliates with jojoba beads (which, unlike microbeads, are biodegradable) to deliver glowing, super smooth skin. It’s a good one for instant results.

Tags:

• facial exfoliators
• skincare