The Best Face Scrubs for Men: What Works, What to Choose & Why It Matters
If you are after a smoother shave, a clearer complexion and overall healthier skin, an exfoliator for face men is probably your answer.
Today, we are breaking down the best men's face scrubs. We'll help you understand why they work, which type is right for your skin and why it even matters.
Why Exfoliation Matters
Exfoliating is the process of removing dead skin cells from the outermost layer of your skin. But for men, it's especially helpful because it:
- Prepares skin for shaving - Reduces the likelihood of ingrown hairs and razor bumps.
- Improves texture and tone - Your skin is smoother and brighter, having lifted that outer layer.
- Helps prevent breakouts - Because you are clearing the skin more thoroughly. By keeping pores cleaner, you prevent breakouts.
- Boost product performance - If you apply moisturisers and serums post-scrub, they’ll penetrate the skin more deeply. Removing the layer of dead skin helps prevent products from just sitting on the surface.
Exfoliator for Face Men - The Two Main Types
Physical Scrubs - Hands-On Exfoliation
Physical scrubs (read more about men's face scrub here) use small, gritty particles or tools to buff away dead skin. Think of them as mini sanding sessions for your face — but gentle, of course!
Pros
- Immediate smooth skin to touch
- Easy to understand and use
- Great for rough or resistant skin
Cons
- Can be too abrasive if used incorrectly or overused
- Not ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Chemical Scrubs - A More Gentle Approach
Chemical exfoliants aren't abrasive at all. Instead, they dissolve the dead skin cells using enzymes or acids. This is especially great for men with sensitive skin, texture issues or clogged pores.
Pros
- Gentle yet effective
- Works uniformly across the skin
- Ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin
Cons
- The effects of these aren't instant. It can take time, but the more you do, the better the results.
- Must wear sunscreen - acids make the skin more sun-sensitive.
What to Choose?
Your choice of exfoliator for face men depends on your skin type and how often you plan to use it.
For a physical exfoliant, look for a gentle face scrub that can be used 2-3 times a week. You can usually use chemical exfoliants daily, but physical scrubs are used less often. Look for one that contains fine walnut shell or powder, or a sugar crystal to lift dead skin cells. Below are just a few of our recommendations:
- Monsieur Paris - This is a great pre-shave daily cleanser and exfoliant
- Flint, the Groomed Man Co, and face scrub by Recipe for Men - These are great physical facial exfoliants for men to use twice a week:
- Charles & Lee Scrub - This is a hybrid, and a great combination face scrub that uses both walnut and an AHA. It's also gentle enough for daily use.
For chemical scrubs, look for products with AHAs, fruit enzymes or salicylic acid.
- Recipe for Men - This is a great twice-weekly mask/chemical exfoliant you can incorporate into your skincare routine. It's also ideal for sensitive skin or acne-prone skin.
How to Scrub the Right Way
- No matter the type of your exfoliator for face men, always cleanse first (check out our article on men's facial cleansers).
- Always apply gentle pressure, even if your skin feels rough.
- Rinse thoroughly and apply a serum or moisturiser (both if you can) afterwards to maximise the fresh skin and lock in moisture.
- Always wear sunscreen, especially when using chemical exfoliants or acids.
We're here to help you on your skincare journey. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you require help choosing a product that's right for you.
