The Right Way to Use Exfoliating Soap on Your Face

Forget the macho way of washing your face (i.e. scrubbing vigorously in the shower, shampoo lather mixing with facial wash suds, Lynyrd Skynyrd blasting in the background). When it comes to using exfoliating soap, you’ll need a gentler touch, unless you are okay with having microtears in your skin. If you’ve never exfoliated before, worry not. It's a straightforward process, outlined below.

Exfoliation is an essential part of any skincare regimen. While the skin typically renews itself and sheds dead cells every 30 days, some of these cells can get trapped on the surface. This can result in clogged pores, dullness, and rough skin texture. 

An exfoliating soap, scrub, or chemical treatment can reveal new skin, prevent breakouts, and brighten the complexion. If you have a beard, regular exfoliation can also help reduce ingrown hairs and get rid of product buildup.

That said, the squeaky-clean feeling that exfoliating soap leaves can be addictive – it’s easy to go overboard and damage your skin. Here are the exact steps you need to follow to avoid just that.

Look for a gentle exfoliating soap specifically formulated for facial use. Avoid soaps with harsh chemicals or abrasive ingredients that can irritate the skin. Don’t use body scrub! Try Master Facial Wash Brightening Plus, which also controls oil for up to eight hours and prevents blackheads and whiteheads. To address dullness, use Master Facial Wash Active Brightening, which has papaya extract to renew cells and brighten skin.

Before applying the soap, thoroughly wet your face with lukewarm water. This helps soften the skin, making it easier to exfoliate. Next, gently rub the exfoliating soap between your hands to create a rich lather. Avoid using too much pressure or rubbing too vigorously directly on your face to avoid irritation.

Apply the lather on your face using light, circular motions. Start on your forehead and work your way down to your chin, making sure to cover the entire face evenly. Focus on rough, bumpy areas such as your nose, but be careful not to over-exfoliate. Steer clear of broken skin and inflamed breakouts. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Your days of rubbing your face like a Looney Tunes character are over. Instead, gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing your skin, as this can cause irritation, especially after exfoliation when your skin may be more sensitive. Do not pick at your skin if you see any peeling and see a doctor if it doesn’t go away on its own.

Apply moisturizer while your skin is still a bit damp to help keep it hydrated and protected. Water-based or gel-type formulas work best for men with oily skin. Lastly, add sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to your morning skincare routine if you’re heading out during the day.

Depending on your skin type and the specific exfoliating soap you're using, you may only need to exfoliate two to three times per week. Over-exfoliating can lead to dryness, redness, and irritation, so find a frequency that works for your skin. More importantly, keep in mind that you can’t scrub pimples away – so talk to a dermatologist if you have acne concerns.