20 BEST EXFOLIATORS FOR FACE, (TESTED AND REVIEWED FOR 2024)

Getting a natural shine might be difficult. Your complexion may appear a little lifeless when dead skin cells remain on the surface of your skin for far longer than they should. Fortunately, the top facial exfoliators can assist in removing that doubt. Excessive force could result in irritation, which can lead to hyperpigmentation. Give up using the product if you become red and raw. You’ve come to the perfect spot if you’re searching for the best exfoliator for face.

DERMALOGICA RAPID REVEAL PEEL

Want a peel that looks professional without having to get out of your house? Try this incredible Dermalogica peel. Users gave it high marks for smoothing wrinkles, brightening skin, evening skin tone, and reducing the visibility of pores. An astounding 100% of respondents agreed that their skin tone was more balanced and that their skin was brighter and smoother. In the meantime, 75% of customers concurred that pores, fine lines, and wrinkles were less noticeable. The tubes, however, may be hard for you to open.

ACURE BRIGHTENING FACIAL SCRUB

This scrub is an excellent choice for people with sensitive skin because it works best at preventing severe skin irritation. The best facial exfoliant for achieving a brighter, more radiant complexion was this one, as it gave the deepest cleanse. People adore how it leaves my skin feeling soft and nourished while still leaving me with a deep sense of cleanliness. Be advised that using this scrub could get messy because of the possibility of sink stains caused by its rich color.

ST. IVES FRESH SKIN APRICOT SCRUB

Without a doubt, the best drugstore face exfoliator is St. Ives’ traditional creamy scrub. It minimizes the look of pores, efficiently cleans and removes makeup, and removes debris, oil, and other contaminants. Because it leaves skin feeling smooth, hydrated, clean, and healthy, most consumers adore it. Additionally, it makes their skin sparkle and helps makeup apply more smoothly. Be aware that some people may find this physical exfoliant’s abrasive particles to be very irritating. 

DR.DENNIS GROSS ALPHA BETA UNIVERSAL DAILY PEEL PADS

The typical amount of beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) in most skin care products is 2%, which is also present in this liquid exfoliant. According to the manufacturer, the exfoliant is good for all skin types and aids in pore cleaning and fine-line smoothing. Use your fingertips or a cotton pad that has been lightly moistened to apply the liquid to your face and neck. Do not rinse it off.

PAULA CHOICE 2% BHA LIQUID EXFOLIATOR

This toner, which is made with a blend of BHAs and PHAs, is a fantastic choice for people who are new to using chemical exfoliants because it is mild on the face. According to the firm, because PHAs like gluconolactone are large molecules at the molecular level, they assist in giving the skin more time to respond to their exfoliating benefits. This makes them suitable for sensitive skin. In addition to the chemical exfoliants, the recipe contains hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and moisturize, as well as tea tree extract to lessen irritation.

TULA SKINCARE EXFOLIATING SUGAR SCRUB

People’s #1 choice for the best non-abrasive scrub is the Tula Skincare So Polished Exfoliating Sugar Scrub. This skin exfoliant boasts a chemical and physical formula that is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is made with a blend of probiotic extracts for smoothing and improving texture, pineapple and papaya extracts for breaking down dead skin and brightening the complexion, and sugar for gently polishing the skin. Although the product’s label claims that it can be used without water, we discovered that this had a slight pulling effect on the skin. Nevertheless, this is still a good exfoliator for face.

NEUTROGENA DEEP CLEAN GENTLE DAILY FACIAL SCRUB

We suggest the Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Daily Facial Scrub as a more affordable option. This face scrub polishes and softens the skin by removing dead skin cells gently using a combination of chemical and physical exfoliants. The non-abrasive face scrub is a great choice for skin types who are oily or prone to acne because it is also oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. 

PCA SKIN PORE REFINING TREATMENT

We suggest the PCA Skin Pore Refining Treatment, which is made with mandelic acid, rice powder, pumice, papain, kaolin, and bentonite, if you want softer skin. In order to brighten, even out uneven texture, absorb extra oil and pollutants, and gently exfoliate without causing irritation, the exfoliating recipe combines physical and chemical ingredients. Customers particularly enjoy that their complexion does not feel tight or raw after using it and that it has a lovely viscous consistency that makes it simple to apply evenly over the skin. It’s not a daily exfoliator because you can only use it once or three times a week. 

PEACH & LILY GLASS SKIN FACE POLISHER

Including regular exfoliation in your skincare routine is one of the greatest strategies to rid your skin of blackheads. The Peach & Lily Glass Skin Face Polisher is a product we adored due to its powerful combination of physical and chemical exfoliants that gently remove dry skin and prevent oil buildup. This exfoliating scrub targets premature symptoms of aging, brightens, and soothes the skin. It is enhanced with salicylic acid, fruit extracts, angelica root, and ginseng.

CETAPHIL EXTRA GENTLE DAILY SCRUB

An excellent substitute for a face scrub if you don’t like face scrub but still want the benefit of using it, this is the exfoliating cleanser you will love. In order to offer a deep clean without stripping, the solution is enhanced with micro-fine granules that pull away dirt, debris, and dead skin buildup. One of the best cleansers for oily skin, its hypoallergenic formula is also mild enough to use on more sensitive skin types. Its formulation targets dirt, debris, and excess oil buildup. Nevertheless, it doesn’t do much to lighten skin tone.

KIEHL’S DAILY REFINING MILK PEEL TONER

This product is incredibly fulfilling and yields immediate outcomes. If you are striving for “glass skin,” you should look into this. It literally makes you glow and is all about giving yourself a really mild exfoliation and intense hydration boost. Almond milk, 23 percent emollients, and lipo-hydroxy acid, a derivative of salicylic acid, are combined in a dual-phase composition for the peel. When you mix it up, the ingredients combine to clear blocked pores and remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, leaving the skin looking radiant and hydrated. 

AESOP PURIFYING FACIAL EXFOLIANT PASTE

Aesop’s purifying face exfoliator paste is definitely worth keeping in your cupboard because it combines the benefits of manual exfoliation with chemical components for fast velvety soft results. Fine quartz and lactic acid are added to the cream-based washing recipe to help exfoliate dead skin cells, and the fine-grain textured paste evens and smoothes your face. It’s easy to apply: just give your face and neck a gentle massage twice a week. A little goes a long way, which is great given the price, and the subtle earthy aroma appeals to a lot of consumers.

DR BARBARA STURM FACIAL SCRUB

Benefits of this refining facial peel from DR. Barbara includes anti-aging and cell renewal. The scrub buffs away at dry, flaky skin as the chemical components work to soften your complexion. It’s an excellent choice for people who steer clear of more physically demanding scrubs. The mild product, which dispenses as a thick cream with fine grains and leaves skin soft and soothed without causing irritation, is easy to wash off. 

REN CLEAN SKINCARE READY STEADY GLOW AHA TONIC

For years, REN’s ready steady glow tonic has been a beloved mainstay in our skincare routine, living up to its cult status. The non-invasive exfoliating mix includes salicin to soothe, lactic acid to exfoliate dead skin cells, and a combination of AHAs and BHAs to refine skin. REN’s toner is made for everyday use and fits into your evening routine with ease. It applies smoothly with a cotton pad. It not only makes your face look cleaner at the end of the day, but it also makes your skin look younger.

KATE SOMERVILLE EXFOLIKATE INTENSIVE EXFOLIATING TREATMENT

For good cause, Kate Somerville’s exfolikate is a cult favorite. The dual-action exfoliant provides brightness at home by utilizing both chemical and physical components. The lotion uses natural alpha hydroxy acid, lactic acid, and enzymes from papaya, pineapple, and pumpkin to gently exfoliate dull skin. Rosewood and cinnamon extracts work together to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while a calming combination of aloe vera, antioxidant vitamin E, and honey works to relieve any irritation. When applying the cream to your face, there is a tiny tingling sensation at first, but the effects are an unmatched radiance.

CHARLOTTE TILBURY SUPER RADIANCE RESURFACING FACIAL

Two years ago, Charlotte Tilbury’s first exfoliation product was released, and it did not let down. This dual-purpose product promises to give skin the instant glow that comes from a spa facial at home. It does this by exfoliating and resurfacing the skin. The treatment is meant to be used once a week, and it needs to be applied evenly and kept on the skin for up to 20 minutes. Charlotte Tilbury’s mask exfoliator dried swiftly and wasn’t sticky like some other mask exfoliators.

MURAD VITAMIN C EXFOLIATING FACIAL

Murad’s triple-action exfoliating facial with vitamin C is designed to revitalize skin by combining physical, chemical, and enzymatic techniques for remarkable outcomes. Enzymes work toward radiance, micro-mineral exfoliants manually remove dead surface cells to significantly smooth skin, and vitamin C supports healthier-looking, brighter skin. Glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids complete the trifecta by brightening and cleansing pores.

AVEENO POSITIVELY RADIANT SKIN BRIGHTENING EXFOLIATING DAILY SCRUB

This inexpensive scrub does a great job cleaning. Microbeads softly polish skin while soy extract helps to moisturize and brighten. For acne-prone skin types, it’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, and it’s oil-free, so there’s no need to worry about outbreaks.

BOSCIA EXFOLIATING PEEL GEL

This cool peeling gel exfoliator uses both chemical and physical means. Because the formula’s molecules really join together as you apply it, it helps remove debris and dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. Buffing is a unique pampering sensation that will make your skin ball up. Then, much deeper, alpha-hydroxy acids from different fruits truly remove bacteria or oil. Even skin types that are sensitive will benefit greatly from it because of the combination of calming botanicals and the absence of preservatives.

M-61 BY BLUEMERCURY POWERGLOW PEEL

This one-step peel uses a combination of salicylic and glycolic acids to tighten pores and remove dead skin cells. It’s great if you’re having trouble with breakouts because it also helps to enhance the texture and tone of your skin. Additionally, chamomile and lavender are added to the pre-soaked wipes to reduce redness and irritation. Please be aware that it could take some time to become used to it. To prevent peeling or dryness as your skin adjusts, start by applying them three times a week before bed and lather on your favorite moisturizer. If your skin is sensitive, cut back or, once your skin is able to tolerate it, use every day.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Sunscreen use and daily washing are essential for healthy skin practices. However, exfoliation may be the unsung hero of any skincare regimen. Why? Even though dead skin cells are naturally shed by the skin, this process isn’t always successful. Allowing those dead cells to remain and build up can lead to a host of issues with the complexion, including hyperpigmentation, flaky spots, dullness, clogged pores, and more obvious fine wrinkles. To address these concerns, exfoliating can assist in hastening the skin’s turnover process. Check out our list for clear, luminous skin.

How to Remove Acrylic Nails Safely and Easily

In recent years, the growing popularity of acrylic nails has piqued the interest of those looking for innovative nail designs that are resilient and visually appealing. Acrylic nails offer an elegant and long-lasting solution for those who desire an attractive and well-groomed appearance. However, it is important to recognize the importance of a safe and scientific removal process. Due to the hard nature of these nails, which are made of hard plastic, a cautious and patient approach is required during nail removal. Using safe removal methods becomes paramount to protecting the natural health of the nail, helping to minimize potential damage. This article will reveal a step-by-step guide on how to remove acrylic nails safely and effectively without damaging your natural nails.

When should acrylic nails be removed?

Acrylic nails should be removed when there is noticeable lifting or damage, or if you experience any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pain. It’s also advisable to remove them if you want to give your natural nails a break or if they have grown out significantly, affecting the overall appearance. Professional removal is recommended to minimize the risk of damage to your natural nails.

Tools you’ll need to take off Acrylic Nails

Quality products are formulated with gentle and effective ingredients that dissolve acrylic without causing unnecessary damage or stress to your nails. Poor-quality products may contain harsh chemicals that can weaken and dehydrate your natural nails, leading to brittleness and breakage. By investing in quality nail removal products, you not only ensure a smoother and more comfortable nail removal process, but you also contribute to the long-term health and resilience of your nails, promoting a positive overall nail care experience.

To safely and effectively remove acrylic nails at home, you’ll need a few essential tools:

Pure acetone: Acetone is the primary solvent used to dissolve acrylic nails. It’s crucial to use pure acetone, as nail polish removers with lower acetone content may not be strong enough to remove the acrylic effectively. 

Cotton balls or pads: Cotton balls or pads facilitate the application of acetone to acrylic nails. They provide a comfortable and absorbent surface for the acetone to work on.

Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is used to wrap around the fingers after applying acetone to the acrylic nails. It helps trap the acetone heat, enhancing its dissolving power and accelerating removal.

Orangewood cuticle pusher: The Orangewood cuticle pusher removes acrylic nails gently and effectively from the natural nail. Its smooth and rounded surface prevents damage to the natural nail layer.

Nail file: A nail file is essential for smoothing out any rough edges or irregularities on the natural nails after the acrylics have been removed. It helps restore a natural and polished look to the nails.

Nail Clipper: A nail clipper will be useful for trimming the length of your natural nails before starting the acrylic nail removal process. It can help make the subsequent steps more manageable and efficient.

Buffer: A nail buffer is used to buff the natural nails after filing to restore their shine and remove any remaining acrylic residue. It promotes a healthy and well-cared-for appearance of the nails.

Moisturizer: Moisturizer is important for replenishing the moisture lost during the acrylic removal process. Acetone can be drying to the skin and nails, so applying moisturizer helps restore hydration and prevent dryness. 

How to take off acrylic nails

Step 1: Shorten the tips of your acrylic nails

Trim off as much acrylic material as possible, as this will streamline the subsequent steps. If the thickness of the nails makes cutting challenging, consider using a coarse nail file to gradually file them down. Be cautious not to cut into your nail bed during this process.

Step 2: Eliminate the topcoat and nail polish from your nails 

Smoothly file away the topcoat and nail polish from your nails. Employ a fine-grade buffer or a nail file to eliminate as much product as possible. Utilize long strokes that traverse the length of the nail, continuing to file until the product is completely removed or until the smooth, shiny layer transitions to a more matte surface.

Step 3: Immerse cotton balls in acetone 

Ensure each cotton ball is fully saturated by dropping it into the acetone. So, you can soak off acrylic nails by immersing your fingertips in acetone until the acrylic material softens and becomes easier to gently lift away. It’s crucial to note that acetone is highly flammable and emits strong fumes. Guarantee proper ventilation in the room, and be cautious to keep the acetone away from heat or any open flames.

Step 4: Prepare tin foil

While the cotton balls are absorbing the acetone, prepare 10 squares of tin foil. Ensure that each square is sizable enough to fully encircle your finger. Precision is unnecessary; the squares don’t have to be perfectly neat.

Step 5: Apply petroleum jelly

Shield the skin around your nails by applying petroleum jelly. Since acetone can be harsh on the skin, it’s crucial to safeguard your fingers. Gently massage a generous quantity of petroleum jelly onto the tips of your fingers and the cuticles, extending it up to the first knuckle if you’re particularly cautious. Avoid applying petroleum jelly directly to the nails, as this could impede the removal process. For more precise application, consider using a cotton-tipped wooden applicator.

Step 6: Wrap in tin foil

Affix the cotton balls to your fingers using tin foil. Position a cotton ball in the middle of a tin foil square, and then place them together atop a nail, ensuring the cotton ball makes contact with the nail. Proceed to wrap the tin foil around your nail to secure the cotton ball. Repeat this process for each nail.

Step 7: Remove the foil bundles

Remove the foil bundles from your nails following a 30-minute duration. Unwrap the tin foil and pull the cotton ball and acrylic away from your natural nail with a gentle yet firm motion. The acetone’s action has loosened the acrylic from your nail, facilitating an easy removal without much difficulty.

If you opted for soaking your acrylic nails in the acetone bowl, delicately pry the nails off using an orange wood stick. In the event that the acrylic nails remain stubbornly attached, consider repeating the process. Allow your nails to soak for an additional 20 minutes before attempting to remove them again. 

Step 8: Remove excess acrylic

Smooth away any remaining acrylic and shape your nails with the nail file. The acetone bath will have softened the acrylic, providing an ideal opportunity to gently buff away the residual material until your nails are free of any leftover residue. Employ nail clippers and a nail file to refine the edges and achieve a rounded nail shape. Subsequently, lightly buff your nails with a fine-grade nail buffer, moving from the base to the tip, to impart a polished and smooth sheen. To prevent nail damage, ensure that you file in one direction only, avoiding a back-and-forth sawing motion.

Step 9: Add moisturizer

After completing the acrylic nail removal process, cleanse your hands and replenish moisture with lotion. The drying effect of acetone can leave the skin extremely dry, so it’s essential to restore some hydration to your fingers. Wash your hands using warm water and a gentle hand soap, followed by thorough drying. Then, massage your hands with body oil or a moisturizing lotion. Ensure to rub the moisturizer into your nails, cuticles, and surrounding skin to keep them well-hydrated and aid in their recovery from the effects of acrylics.

How to remove acrylic nails without acetone

Step 1: Clip Your Nails

Start by selecting a good-quality nail clipper and ensure it’s clean and sharp. With careful precision, clip your nails straight across, avoiding the temptation to cut too close to the skin to prevent discomfort. 

Step 2: File the Acrylic Surface

Delicately filing the surface of your acrylic nails is a crucial step in their removal. Use a fine-grit nail file, ensuring its cleanliness to prevent any debris from affecting the procedure. With a gentle touch, file the surface of each acrylic nail, moving from the outer edge towards the center. The objective is to break the top layer of the acrylic, allowing the removal agent to penetrate more effectively. Take your time and exercise patience during this step to avoid unnecessary pressure that could potentially damage your natural nails.

Step 3: Soak in Warm Water

Creating a soothing prelude to acrylic nail removal involves immersing your fingertips in a bowl filled with warm, soapy water. This preparatory step not only promotes relaxation but serves a practical purpose. Allow your nails to soak in the comforting warmth for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The warm water works wonders by gently softening the acrylic, making it more pliable and easier to remove. This soaking technique not only contributes to the overall comfort of the removal process but also facilitates a smoother transition, minimizing the risk of any undue stress on your natural nails.

Step 4: Gently Pry Off Acrylic

Following the soaking process, it’s time to remove the softened acrylic using a cuticle pusher delicately. Choose a high-quality cuticle pusher with a gentle edge to avoid unnecessary pressure on your natural nails. Start by working patiently around the edges of each nail, where the acrylic has begun to lift. With a gradual and gentle motion, carefully pry off the softened acrylic from your natural nails. Pay close attention to avoid forcing or rushing the process, as this can lead to damage. The goal is to lift and separate the acrylic layer without causing undue stress to your natural nails. Take your time, and with each careful maneuver, observe the acrylic lifting away, revealing your natural nails underneath.

Step 5: Buff the Natural Nails

After successfully removing the acrylic, the next crucial step involves using a nail buffer to refine the surface of your natural nails. Opt for a fine-grit nail buffer to gently smooth out any rough edges or unevenness. With meticulous care, move the buffer across the surface of each natural nail, focusing on achieving a seamless and polished look. Take extra caution to avoid excessive buffing, ensuring that you only refine the surface without compromising the thickness of your natural nails. This step not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but also helps restore the natural shine and smooth texture of your nails.

Step 6: Moisturize Your Nails and Hands

Choose a nourishing option like olive oil or a rich hand moisturizer. Dispense a small amount onto your fingertips and massage it generously into your nails and hands. Olive oil, known for its hydrating properties, can penetrate deeply, promoting nail and cuticle health. 

What should I do to my nails after removing acrylics?

After removing acrylics, it’s essential to care for natural nails to promote health and strength. Start by regularly moisturizing your nails and the surrounding skin with cuticle oil or a nourishing cream. To prevent snagging or breakage, ensure that you keep your nails trimmed and shaped. Consider incorporating a strengthening nail treatment into your routine to support the natural nail’s recovery. Additionally, allow your nails to breathe and be cautious about excessive exposure to water, as it can contribute to brittleness. Finally, maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall nail health.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Common mistakes in the process of removing acrylic nails often result from impatience and a lack of proper care. Hastening the removal process is a common error since impatience can lead to taking shortcuts that may harm natural nails. Employing excessive force is another pitfall, as it can cause damage and weaken the nails. Equally crucial is avoiding neglect of post-removal nail care, as the failure to moisturize and nourish the nails afterward can result in dryness and vulnerability. To ensure a smooth transition from acrylics to natural nails, it’s essential to approach the removal method patiently, refrain from using excessive force, and prioritize post-removal care for optimal nail health.

FAQ

1. Is acetone bad for skin?

Excessive exposure of the skin to acetone can result in dryness, irritation, and cracking. Some studies on the prolonged effects of acetone exposure have primarily focused on animals, revealing potential harm such as kidney, liver, and nerve damage, as well as the occurrence of birth defects and male infertility.

2. Can hot water remove acrylics?

Absolutely! Taking off acrylic nails with warm water is a simple and chemical-free solution.

3. Do acrylic nails damage your nails?

Acrylic does not harm your nails. However, if acrylic paint or any nail polish method is applied or removed improperly, it can cause significant damage.

4. How long is it OK to wear acrylic nails?

Clients are advised to return every two to three weeks for a fill, allowing for the growth of their natural nails and maintaining a fresh-looking manicure. A full set typically lasts about four to six months, but after eight weeks, it’s recommended to remove them and opt for a new set.

5. Why are my nails so thin after acrylics?

Nails becoming thinner after using acrylic paint is a common issue, as acrylic can lead to moisture loss, making the nails brittle and prone to peeling.

Conclusion

Even though your short square acrylics are stunning, removal is inevitable. The good news is you can take them off safely and easily at home with a little patience and the right tools! Remember to prioritize patience and gentle techniques to avoid harming your natural nails and surrounding skin. Regular maintenance, proper tools, and a mindful approach will contribute to a successful acrylic nail removal experience. Embracing these tips not only preserves the health of your nails but also allows you to enjoy the flexibility of changing your nail style without compromising the integrity of your natural nails.