On top of that, clearing out clogged pores helps improve the absorption of other skincare products that you apply. There are two main types of exfoliators – chemical and physical. Chemical exfoliators are generally made of acids, while physical exfoliators or face scrub have granulated texture made from natural fibers or microbeads.

Exfoliators are used after cleansers, this will allow you to work on a ‘clean base’ and effectively remove dull, dead skin cells, excess oil, as well as the buildup of impurities deep within the pores to reveal a smooth, luminous and evenly toned complexion.

After exfoliation, it is important to keep your skin well moisturized to prevent sensitivity and dehydration. Apply your choice of essences, serums or ampoules, and then follow with a moisturizer to ensure that your skin stays supple, fresh and smooth.

Unlike other skincare products that are used on a daily basis, using the best facial exfoliator or best exfoliating scrub can be done twice or thrice a week, depending on your skin condition. For those with delicate, sensitive skin, or acne prone skin, exfoliating once a week should be sufficient. But it is recommended to observe your skin condition during and after exfoliation to ensure that you are not over-exfoliating your skin, which can damage the skin barrier.

What is Chemical Exfoliators?

Chemical exfoliators are acids that remove dead skin cells to increase skin cell turnover, even out skin tone, unclog pores and fade scars. They work by gently peeling away the outer layers of your skin and penetrate deeply into the pores to remove dead skin, blackheads and whiteheads. The most commonly found Korean chemical exfoliator include ingredients like Alpha/Beta Hydroxy Acids, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Glycolic Acid and many others.

The acids found in chemical peels or chemical exfoliators can usually be derived from natural sources like willow bark, fruit acids, sugar or milk. While the words ‘chemicals’ and ‘acids’ may sound harsh and harmful to the skin, those found in chemical exfoliators are gentle enough to be used on the skin, enabling dead skin cells to be effectively removed from the surface without the need to use friction or scrubbing which can cause irritation for those with sensitive skin or acne prone skin.

What are Facial Scrubs?

Facial scrubs are also known as physical exfoliators. They contain granulated substances made up of ingredients such as nutshells, microbeads, oat, coffee grounds, sugar and so on. Nonetheless, regardless of the ingredient, the main purpose of physical scrubs is to buff away dull, dead skin cells, rough patches and uneven skin texture and help reveal a smooth, healthy-looking complexion.

Unlike body scrub, face scrub is gentler in texture and have smaller granules which make it less abrasive. Face scrubs can be used as the best body exfoliator for areas such as your neck where the skin is thinner than other areas like the elbows and knees, which will need a stronger body exfoliator to remove rough skin texture.

Face scrubs are not limited to just skincare products. They also include tools with textured surfaces such as washcloths, facial brushes, and sponges. These tools work similarly to any other facial scrubs by physically scrubbing away dead skin and revealing a brighter skin tone.

How to select the best exfoliator for my skin?

The choice of best Korean exfoliator and scrub for you will depend on your skin type and skin concerns. If you have dry or sensitive skin, the best exfoliator would be the one that has gentle ingredients that do not irritate or excessively strip away moisture from your skin. Opt for products that contain ingredients like lactic acid, fruit acids if you are looking for the best chemical exfoliator; and look for the best exfoliating scrub that contains milder granules such as those from fruit fibers, gommage peels, oats and so on.

On the other hand, if you have oily, acne-prone skin, opt for chemical exfoliators that contain BHA which will deeply cleanse the pores, eliminate dead skin cells and control excess oil production to keep your skin clarified and trouble-free. Alternatively, those with oily skin can also opt for gentle face scrubs that contain sugar granules to gently slough away dead skin cells and dry patches to reveal smoother skin. Apart from that, sugar exfoliators can also be used as a mask that is left on the skin for a few minutes before rinsing off.

Achieve a flawless, smooth skin with the help of face exfoliators! Find the best exfoliator or best exfoliating scrub at BONIIK from our selection of Korean beauty brands.