As dead skin cells build up on the surface of the skin, the complexion may appear dull or have a rough texture. One way to address this is with the use of an exfoliating scrub. Scrubs are a form of mechanical or physical exfoliation using a granular substance rubbed into the skin. The abrasion effect helps disrupt surface dead skin cells, allowing them to be sloughed off the skin. The friction created by an exfoliating scrub also increases blood circulation in the skin for increased nourishment. As the dead skin cells are removed, it prompts the generation of new skin cells, thereby boosting cellular turnover. The use of an exfoliating scrub may leave the skin looking brighter and smoother.

The correct age to begin exfoliating will depend upon genetic makeup and activity of the skin. In general, patients may benefit from exfoliation as early as puberty, when increased sebaceous activity in the skin and a build-up of dead skin cells may trigger visible congestion or acne. For others, regular exfoliation beginning around age 30 may improve the appearance of the skin by encouraging cellular turnover that has begun to slow. Exfoliation may also be an important part of a regimen to correct or remove visible hyperpigmentation or mild scarring. In whatever scenario, exfoliation should be done when it is needed as over-exfoliating will impair the skin and may create additional problematic conditions. To choose the right method of exfoliation, whether a chemical peel or an exfoliating scrub, consult with an experienced skin care professional who can make appropriate recommendations.

Exfoliating with an exfoliating scrub may improve the appearance of an indented acne scar, called an atrophic acne scar, by smoothing the surface of the skin with the removal of dead skin cells. However, to achieve a true reduction in acne scars with exfoliation would require professional acid peels using stronger acids such as a high concentration of glycolic, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or a blend of acids such as the Jessner peel.

Acid-based exfoliation is more effective than physical exfoliation, such as an exfoliating scub, because the acid not only removes the dead skin cells, but also creates a controlled wound in the skin that stimulates the body’s natural wound response. The resulting increase in collagen production may help “fill” the depression left by the scars, improving their appearance.

Exfoliation of any kind, including the use of an exfoliating scrub, should be used only to remove excess dead skin cells. With the fresh look and feel of the skin after exfoliation with an exfoliating scrub for example, it’s tempting to think that more exfoliation is even better. However, healthy skin relies on layers of dead skin cells to draw moisture into the skin and prevent epidermal water loss. Over-exfoliating or over-using an exfoliating scrub or body scrub impairs this protective barrier, making the skin more prone to the dull appearance and rough texture that generally prompts the desire to exfoliate in the first place. There are no rules for how often the skin may be exfoliated because it will be different depending upon the skin and the type of exfoliator being used. However, in general, the skin does not need to be exfoliated more than once or twice a week.