In case you are gently rubbing your skin or even gently scraping it, you are removing excess dead skin cells. Good exfoliators will smooth your skin as they remove the dead cells in order to reveal the newer ones underneath.
When you are out shopping for exfoliators, you will realize that they come in different shapes as well as sizes. These come in the form of abrasive sponges, pads, as well as brushes. You may soap these up in order to use them on the body only, but not the face. This is because facial scrubs are the ones which have very subtle grains. Facial masks are perfect exfoliators, as when they dry they also take the dead skin cells with them. Certain facial masks even have a grainy texture which helps to smooth the skin during the rinsing cycle. Toners are also exfoliators as they work by removing the dirt as well as cells with the help of a cotton ball or pad. Toners can be used on the face as well as neck.
While choosing a scrub for the face, ensure that it has a light texture as well as fine, even particles. Chunks of scrub ingredients will be best for the body as they are too harsh for the delicate facial skin and may leave it red as well as irritated. Never choose exfoliators with a lot of oils. Else, you may end up with a lot of clogged pores. Just blot or pat your face dry when you rinse the exfoliators off. Use a moisturizer at night and a sunscreen during the day.
In case you are using exfoliators for the first time, use it once a day, at night time. Allow your skin to recover before you apply it again. Stop in case your skin is uncomfortable or if you feel pain.